The Baltimore Ravens drafted guard Ben Cleveland in the third round of the 2021 NFL draft. He’s had an up and down career so far through three years, but could finally be in line to hold down a starting spot on Baltimore offensive line.
Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris was asked about Cleveland and his progress, to which he brought up some of his past performances. He talked about how he’s working on his craft, with nice progression and improvement to show for it.
“Here’s what I can tell you. Last year, we played Pittsburgh, and we played the Rams, I think, towards the end, and Ben [Cleveland] played very well. When Ben’s had his opportunities to start, he’s produced and done well. He’s out here right now working his craft and working his skills. You’ve seen nice progression and improvement, and I’m anxious to see now, when you start training camp, you put the pads on, and we’re going to see if he’ll continue. It has to be earned, right? It’s earned based on play production.”
Cleveland is vying for one of the two starting guard spots vacated by John Simpson and Kevin Zeitler, who both left in free agency. He will have to separate himself from the rest of his competition, but it seems like he could have a leg up for now.