The Baltimore Ravens are entering a massive year with their offensive line. After losing multiple critical veterans at the position, the team will rely on an influx of young talent to protect quarterback Lamar Jackson and open rushing lanes for players like running back Derrick Henry.
One of the veterans still with the team is offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley, the team’s first-round pick in 2016. He talked about working with the many different offensive line combinations that will emerge over the next few months, mentioning that communication will be one of the most significant factors to look out for.
“It’s a lot about the guy you play next to. In my case, working with Andrew [Vorhees] and Josh [Jones] and the different guys in there, ‘Sala’ [Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu], just making sure the communication from the huddle to the line of scrimmage is clear. We don’t need to repeat a whole play call. There are key words that we need to focus on, and we can remind each other and make the game easier for each other.”
While the Ravens would ideally like their starting offensive line to be set sooner rather than later, many of the competitions are expected to extend far into training camp and the preseason. Baltimore is replacing three starters on their unit, which is no small task, but the team believes they have the talent to do so effectively.