One Offensive Starter Must Be Replaced by the Ravens in the NFL Draft

The Baltimore Ravens, a franchise rich in history and tradition, are gearing up for another draft where the primary focus will likely be strengthening the offensive side of the ball. While the team has had a consistent identity rooted in physical defense and power running, the offense has been a subject of debate, particularly with the departure of former offensive coordinator Greg Roman and the arrival of Todd Monken. The change in leadership in the offensive room signals a pivotal moment in the team’s evolution, and one of the most pressing needs lies in replacing an offensive starter.

In this analysis, we will explore why one offensive starter must be replaced, how the team can achieve this through the 2025 NFL Draft, and which position is most likely to be the focus of the Ravens’ selections.

Identifying the Need: Why the Ravens Must Replace an Offensive Starter

The Ravens have several core pieces that have helped shape their offensive identity, including quarterback Lamar Jackson, running back J.K. Dobbins, and tight end Mark Andrews. However, despite these high-profile players, there are notable gaps and weaknesses that need to be addressed to elevate the offense to a more efficient and explosive unit.

Offensive Line Struggles

One of the most pressing needs for the Ravens in recent years has been the offensive line. While the Ravens have been successful in the running game, their pass protection has often been inconsistent, which has led to Lamar Jackson taking hits and struggling to maintain a clean pocket. The most significant area of concern within the offensive line has been the right tackle position.

Right tackle has been a revolving door for the Ravens over the past few seasons. Players like Ja’Wuan James, Morgan Moses, and others have rotated in and out of the lineup, but none have solidified the spot as a long-term answer. This inconsistency at right tackle has hindered the overall offensive success, especially in pass protection. Given that Jackson is a mobile quarterback who thrives when he has time to make decisions, improving the protection on the right side of the offensive line should be a priority.

Wide Receiver Depth

Another key area that the Ravens have struggled with over the past few years is at wide receiver. While the team boasts elite talent in the form of tight end Mark Andrews and running backs like J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards, the wide receiver group has often been a weak point in the offense. Marquise “Hollywood” Brown’s departure to Arizona left a noticeable void in the receiving corps. While they brought in Odell Beckham Jr. and drafted Zay Flowers, the Ravens still lack a truly dynamic, number-one receiver that can consistently stretch the field and make plays in critical situations.

While the additions of Beckham and Flowers are promising, there’s still a need for more depth and talent at wide receiver. This is especially true considering that Jackson’s ability to thrive in a pass-heavy offense often hinges on having an array of reliable receiving targets. As the Ravens transition under Todd Monken’s new offensive system, the wide receiver room will need to provide more explosive plays down the field and create separation from defenders. If the Ravens’ offense is to reach the level of high-scoring potential that many believe it can achieve, replacing a weak starter at receiver could be key.

Which Offensive Starter Should Be Replaced?

While there are a number of positions that could use an upgrade, the position that stands out most is the right tackle spot. This is the one area where the Ravens could significantly improve their overall offensive line play and, consequently, their offensive output.

Right Tackle: A Longstanding Issue

The right tackle position has been a constant issue for the Ravens for several seasons. The team has cycled through various players and has yet to find a permanent, long-term solution. Ja’Wuan James, who was supposed to be the starter, has been riddled with injuries, and Morgan Moses, while a solid veteran, hasn’t shown the level of consistency that the Ravens need in the critical right tackle position. A lack of stability on the offensive line leads to breakdowns in protection, especially when teams are able to key in on Lamar Jackson’s vulnerabilities in the pocket.

In 2023, the Ravens allowed 41 sacks, which ranked them in the middle of the league. While not catastrophic, this number can certainly be improved, especially considering that Lamar Jackson’s ability to thrive in a clean pocket is crucial to the success of the offense. With a mobile quarterback like Jackson, the right tackle must not only be able to provide adequate pass protection but also create running lanes on the right side for J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards. The ability to generate push in the run game while protecting Jackson in the passing game is a critical dual task for a right tackle in this offense.

What Does the Ideal Right Tackle Look Like?

The Ravens need a right tackle who is strong in both the run and pass game. Ideally, this player should be a powerful mauler in the run game, capable of creating gaping holes for the running backs. Additionally, in the pass game, they need to be able to handle both power and speed rushers on the outside while giving Jackson the time and space to operate.

A key attribute for the Ravens’ right tackle would be strong lateral movement, as the team’s offense relies on a combination of quick throws and designed rollouts for Jackson. If the right tackle can effectively protect the edge and limit Jackson’s need to scramble, the offense as a whole would benefit greatly.

How the Ravens Can Address This Need in the NFL Draft

Given that the Ravens are not in a position to completely overhaul their offensive line, they will likely look to find a quality right tackle prospect in the draft who can step in and start immediately. The 2025 NFL Draft will offer several intriguing prospects that could fit the Ravens’ needs.

Top Right Tackle Prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft

1. Joe Alt (Notre Dame) Alt is one of the premier offensive tackle prospects in the 2025 draft class. Standing at 6’8″ and weighing 318 pounds, Alt is a powerful, physical blocker who excels in both run and pass protection. His size and strength make him a formidable presence in the run game, and his lateral movement and ability to protect the pocket are impressive for someone of his size. Alt has been widely regarded as a top-tier prospect and would be a great addition to the Ravens’ offensive line.
2. J.C. Latham (Alabama) Latham has been a cornerstone for Alabama’s offensive line, with a reputation for being a well-rounded, technically sound tackle. He stands at 6’6″ and weighs 335 pounds, with the ability to dominate defenders in both the running game and the passing game. His physicality in the run game would complement the Ravens’ scheme, and his strong pass protection would give Lamar Jackson the time he needs to execute plays.
3. Blake Fisher (Notre Dame) Fisher, another Notre Dame prospect, is a rising star in the 2025 draft class. He’s a solid, balanced offensive lineman with excellent size (6’6″, 323 pounds) and a strong anchor in pass protection. Fisher would be an excellent choice for the Ravens’ right tackle spot, providing a combination of power and finesse that would help solidify the offensive line for the future.

A Focus on Right Tackle

The Ravens are in a position where they must address a critical need on the offensive line, specifically at right tackle. By drafting a player like Joe Alt, J.C. Latham, or Blake Fisher, they can solidify the right side of their line, giving Lamar Jackson better protection and allowing their running backs to take full advantage of the running game. Additionally, this move will help the Ravens’ offense transition smoothly into Todd Monken’s more pass-heavy system. A reliable right tackle is an investment that will pay off in both the short and long term, enhancing the performance of Lamar Jackson and providing stability for the offensive line for years to come.

Through the 2025 NFL Draft, the Ravens have the chance to transform their offense, and addressing the right tackle position is the first step in that process. By replacing their weak offensive starter at this position, they can ensure that they have the right foundation to maximize their offensive potential and remain competitive in the AFC.