NFL Mock Draft: Lamar Jackson to Join Ravens as New Protector

The Baltimore Ravens’ heartbreaking loss to the Kansas City Chiefs prevented them from ever playing in the Super Bowl since 2012. The NFL Draft is the first step on the long road that will take to return the franchise to its rightful place. With guards Kevin Zeitler and John Simpson expected to explore the free agent market and left tackle Ronnie Stanley having played in just 24 games over the previous two seasons, the Ravens select Duke’s Graham Barton in the first round of the draft, one of several highly skilled lineman available.
“Graham Barton played left tackle his final three seasons at Duke, and he was the anchor of that unit, but his NFL future will be inside, either at guard or center,” says CBS Sports. “And with both of Baltimore’s guards set to hit free agency, Barton makes sense here.”
Barton’s strengths complement the Ravens’ most desired tactic, which is running the football. His quickness down the line enables him to reach the second level quickly. Given the offensive identity of the Ravens with Todd Monken, Barton, who thrives in the run game, might be a valuable addition in the first round. He is a stronger run blocker than a pass protector. Associated: Should the Ravens Sign a Future Hall of Fame Tackle in Free Agency? Barton spent most of his time at left tackle in 2023, but he can also transition to guard, which might be useful. In that year, he gave up just two sacks and nine QB hurries from that position.In addition to providing Stanley with cover, the Ravens also gave Zeither and Simpson’s unclear futures.
The Ravens were among the greatest teams in the NFL the previous season, and as roster change is a common occurrence, the offensive line in 2024 may look very different with Barton as the newest player on the line to guard Lamar Jackson.