The Baltimore Ravens’ offensive line held up well in 2024 despite rolling out multiple starters. One of those key contributors, Patrick Mekari, is now set to hit free agency, and his future in Baltimore remains uncertain. While Mekari proved his value with a strong season at left guard, the Ravens may not have the cap space to retain him.
That puts general manager Eric DeCosta in a tough spot as he looks for a replacement without breaking the bank.
Brandon Scherff, a five-time Pro Bowler, has emerged as a prime candidate to step in if Mekari departs. Scherff, currently with the Jacksonville Jaguars, is still a highly capable pass protector and run blocker. He didn’t allow a single sack in 2024, committed just two penalties, and surrendered only 17 pressures across 1,013 snaps at right guard. Despite his age (33), Scherff could be the perfect short-term solution for the Ravens. Scherff has been trapped on bad teams his entire career, and it's time to get him on a competitor.
Funny enough, we suggested the Ravens trade for Scherff at this past trade deadline. CBS Sports' Jordan Dajani further pleaded the case for Baltimore:
The offensive line is going to be under a microscope this offseason in Baltimore, as both Ronnie Stanley and Patrick Mekari are looking for new deals. Scherff would be an interesting addition for Lamar Jackson, and he made the Pro Bowl five times during seven seasons with Washington. Someone save him from Jacksonville.
Ravens should take a chance on Brandon Scherff
Scherff may no longer be in his prime, but he remains an effective lineman. His ability to hold up in pass protection would be crucial for Lamar Jackson, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Ronnie Stanley’s future. He also has a strong history of durability, playing in every game for the past three seasons.
While signing Scherff makes sense on paper, it could go against Baltimore’s recent strategy of getting younger along the offensive line.
DeCosta has done an excellent job at building the offensive line through the draft. It's fair to assume another line-focus draft could yield another starter or two for the foreseeable future. Center Tyler Linderbaum and tackle Roger Rosengarten have been revelations, and are both under 25 years old. They could both be anchors on the line for another decade.
Several upcoming draftees fit the Ravens' style of football. Anthony Belton from NC State, Grey Zabel from North Dakota State University, Emery Jones Jr. from LSU, Hollin Pierce from Rutgers, and Josh Conerly Jr. from Oregon are all options that could be around either on Day 1 or Day 2.
While this draft is seemingly deep on the offensive line, bringing in a player of Scherff's caliber would be a big value-add. There's something to say about bringing in a successful veteran to set the tone and provide mentorship for a young line. It'd be the ultimate win-win scenario. Scherff would finally be on a legitimately competitive roster, while Baltimore gets a Pro Bowl-level offensive lineman to protect Jackson and mentor and prepare the future.
If the price is right, replacing Mekari with a player of Scherff's caliber is an easy decision.
If the Ravens want to keep their offensive line sturdy without overcommitting long-term money, Scherff is the perfect fit. He’s still playing at a high level, he’s durable, and he brings the kind of leadership that could elevate a young unit. While the Ravens love to build through the draft, there’s real value in having a veteran presence like Scherff to bridge the gap.