The Baltimore Ravens must do all they can to improve their offensive line with their first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Baltimore Ravens possess the No. 14 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. There was a moment there when they had traded the pick for All-Pro edge rusher Maxx Crosby.
One thing led to another, and they are now back to owning the pick. The Ravens have a chance to draft a game-changer at 14 overall, and while they could go a multitude of ways, it is imperative to address the offensive line.
The Ravens have a ton of roster needs they must address, but none are bigger than the offensive line. Protecting Lamar Jackson is the top priority, and it remains an issue as the draft approaches.
Losing All-Pro center Tyler Linderbaum was a massive blow to the Ravens and, particularly, their offensive line. He was a key anchor for the line and an elite run blocker. Now that he's gone, the Ravens must find his replacement.
The interior, in particular, tends to disrupt timing before routes fully develop. For a quarterback like Jackson — who thrives when plays extend but still needs clean pockets on structured throws — that inconsistency limits the full scope of the passing game.
Not only is the interior now a weakness, but the right side of the line is also vulnerable. Despite his struggles, guard Daniel Faalele joined the New York Giants, putting an even bigger need for the Ravens on the right side.
In recent seasons, edge pressure from the right tackle spot has been a recurring stress point. When defenses have isolated that side, it forces quicker scrambles or condensed play calls, which shrinks the vertical element of the offense.
Injuries and rotation have exposed a lack of depth for the Ravens. Baltimore has had to shuffle linemen frequently, and that lack of continuity matters. The Ravens signed three offensive linemen this offseason to help shore up that front in Jovaughn Gwyn, John Simpson, and Danny Pinter.
They hope at least one of those two offensive linemen plays a pivotal role, but they shouldn't count on that. The Ravens need an offensive lineman who could help them right out of the gate and in the future.
Baltimore will have options to choose from, and it will be imperative to select the right one, as Jackson is in the prime of his career. Drafting an elite offensive lineman with their first pick would help take Jackson and the offense to another level.
The 29-year-old's improvisation is a strength, but relying on it too often will increase exposure, which will then lead to injuries. The Ravens are a different team when No. 8 is not on the field. Baltimore wins over 60 percent of their games when Jackson is the signal caller; without him, they are a mediocre team.
The Ravens can return to elite status if they address the offensive line. If they don't, it will be a long season for the Flock.