Following a strong showing in Week 8, where the Baltimore Ravens took home a 30-16 win over the Chicago Bears, they are entering another must-win matchup. Their Week 9 game against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday Night Football is not just a do-or-die contest for the Ravens as a whole, but one for many key contributors looking to hang onto their starting roles.
After a 2-5 start, it is safe to say many players have been off to a disappointing start. On defense, the unit will likely undergo several personnel and schematic changes in the coming weeks to turn around its horrific start. However, on offense, there is one position group that could endure the most changes with the trade deadline looming.
The offensive guard duo of Andrew Vorhees and Daniel Faalele is by far the most disappointing part of the offense. While reports have stated General Manager Eric DeCosta is searching the trade market for help on the defensive side, another poor showing from either of the two could force him to search for a replacement via the trade market.
Andrew Vorhees and Daniel Faalele must play well on Thursday
Neither Vorhees nor Faalele has played up to expectations in 2025. Both have been far below average, allowing pressure in the passing attack and causing inconsistencies in the run game.
The two guards are providing subpar play up front, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF). Vorhees has registered a 55.4 overall grade through eight weeks, and Faaele has posted a 60.5 grade.
Vorhees and Faalele each have had promising showings this year. However, just when they have encouraging performances, they seem to fall flat in the following week. The two have shown major flaws from week to week. In Vorhees’ case, there have been troubles with the bull rush, and for Faalele, his severe lack of athleticism has shown up on nearly every drive.
If the two prove unable to hold up against the Dolphins’ defensive line, they could quickly find themselves out of a job. In-house options like Ben Cleveland and Corey Bullock certainly deserve a shot, but a trade could bring a much more significant upgrade.
For offensive line help, Baltimore has been linked to a former starter in the Tennessee Titans' offensive guard, Kevin Zeitler. The veteran has continued to be a strong starter since departing from the Ravens, and at 1-7, it would make sense for the Titans to deal the 35-year-old.
There is still time for Vorhees and Faalele to cement themselves into their starting spots, but with one game left before the trade deadline, Week 9 may be their last chance to prove themselves.