The Baltimore Ravens have themselves an offensive guard. They agreed to terms with a familiar face on Monday, bringing back offensive guard John Simpson on a three-year, $30 million deal.
After filling their top need with the acquisition of edge rusher Maxx Crosby, offensive guard was the next need that Baltimore needed to check off their list of priorities. In Simpson, they are expected to bring in a reliable veteran to protect quarterback Lamar Jackson.
After what Jackson went through last year, a move like this was a must. The two-time MVP was put in harm’s way, enduring several injuries, and now he gets a trusted protector back in his corner.
Baltimore Ravens agree to terms with John Simpson
Simpson will give Jackson and running back Derrick Henry exactly what they need: a trustworthy blocker. He’s started every game for the last three years and has already proven he can wreak havoc in the purple and black. He was a part of one of the better offensive lines Jackson has had, starting for that 2023 team that appeared to be a Super Bowl favorite before losing to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game.
Following that one-year stint in Charm City, Simpson signed with the New York Jets, where he continued to be a reliable piece. Now, he returns, and he’ll get a shot at some playoff redemption, blocking for Jackson and Henry for the next three years.
Simpson is also a great veteran to have in the locker room. It’s expected that 2025 third-round pick Emery Jones Jr. will take over the left guard spot in 2026. While he flashed, he also didn’t get many starting reps. With that in mind, the Ravens add a proven piece opposite of him to bring more stability, while also playing a role in Jones’ development.