The Baltimore Ravens came into this offseason needing the patch up the interior of their offensive line and they didn’t wait long to make a move. The Ravens have agreed to terms with former New York Giants guard Kevin Zeitler. However, with a bunch of young talent at the position, what does Zeitler’s signing mean for Baltimore short- and long-term?
Immediately, Zeitler’s signing fills one of two holes on the offensive line. After seeing Marshal Yanda retire last offseason, the Ravens started three different players at right guard, getting pretty lackluster play. Having missed just one game over the last six years, Zeitler should end that shuffling, giving Baltimore a stable and high-quality starter, even if he isn’t at Yanda’s level.
While it means young players like Ben Powers and Tyre Phillips could be relegated to the bench in 2021, that doesn’t necessarily mean we’ve seen the last of them. The offensive line gets hit on every single play, putting those players at an increased risk of injury. That means having capable depth is a necessity, especially if the NFL is heading toward a 17-game regular-season schedule. But when Baltimore makes a move, they tend to think a little more long-term, and with left guard Bradley Bozeman in the final year of his rookie deal, guys like Powers and Phillips give the Ravens much-needed leverage in any contract negotiations.
Zeitler’s signing could also help Baltimore transition at right tackle if they decide to trade Orlando Brown Jr. this offseason. That’s already a tall task considering Brown has earned Pro Bowl nods in each of the last two seasons, but having a high-quality starter at right guard would be a massive help for whoever lines up on the outside.
The Ravens earned an “A” grade for signing Zeitler and it’s easy to see why. He’s a solid player, a great fit schematically, affordable, and gives Baltimore some much-needed flexibility on the offensive line as they look to boost the offense for a Super Bowl push.
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