Three Potential Candidates to Fill the ‘Under-the-Radar’ Need for Ravens: Pundit Identifies Them After Being Late for Work

The Baltimore Ravens, a franchise with a long history of playoff appearances and an established identity built on hard-nosed defense and dynamic playmakers on offense, are navigating a crucial point in their roster construction. After an underwhelming 2024 season that saw several key injuries and some questionable personnel decisions, the Ravens are looking for ways to improve their squad as they prepare for the 2025 NFL season. While most fans and analysts focus on the high-profile positions, such as quarterback, wide receiver, and cornerback, there are areas that need attention but remain under the radar.

In a recent segment for NFL Network, one pundit, who admitted to arriving late to work due to an early-morning coffee run, stunned his co-hosts by identifying three potential candidates to address one of those often-overlooked needs. It wasn’t the flashy moves involving high-profile players, but rather a more understated, yet crucial area of the Ravens’ roster that he brought to light.

The pundit pointed out that the Ravens’ offensive line, while serviceable, has shown vulnerabilities in recent seasons. Specifically, the need for depth and additional protection for quarterback Lamar Jackson has become apparent. With Jackson’s explosive ability and skill set, the team cannot afford to neglect the offensive line, especially given that the line has been plagued by injuries and inconsistencies. In fact, a clear focus needs to be on providing Jackson with more stability and a better pocket to operate in, as well as ensuring the running game has the proper lanes to thrive.

Let’s dive into the three potential candidates who could help fill this “under-the-radar” need for the Ravens.

1. Cody Mauch (OT, North Dakota State)

The first name that should be on the radar of the Ravens front office is Cody Mauch, an offensive tackle from North Dakota State. Mauch’s rise in the draft has been somewhat quiet, largely due to the fact that he played at a smaller school and hasn’t received the same level of attention as some of the bigger-name prospects from Power Five schools. However, Mauch has consistently shown that he has the talent and potential to be a starting-caliber lineman in the NFL.

Standing at 6’6” and weighing 303 pounds, Mauch has the ideal frame to succeed in the NFL. He has quick feet, good athleticism, and the ability to handle both run and pass blocking responsibilities. Scouts have praised his ability to anchor in pass protection, and his tenacity and attitude in the run game could make him a perfect fit for the Ravens’ offensive system.

More importantly, Mauch would provide much-needed depth to the offensive line. The Ravens have faced several injury issues along the front in recent seasons, and adding a player like Mauch would ensure that the team isn’t left scrambling for a replacement in case of another injury. Mauch’s ability to step in and contribute immediately as a reliable backup or even as a starter at tackle or guard makes him an appealing option for the Ravens, who need players that can fill multiple roles.

2. Tyler Steen (OG, Alabama)

A name that many Ravens fans may already be familiar with is Tyler Steen, a versatile offensive guard from Alabama. Steen transferred to Alabama from Vanderbilt, and during his time with the Crimson Tide, he made a name for himself as one of the most consistent and reliable blockers in the SEC. While not as flashy as some of the elite prospects in the 2025 draft class, Steen’s ability to play multiple positions on the offensive line, including both guard and tackle, gives him tremendous value.

Steen is a player that would fit seamlessly into the Ravens’ system, where versatility and the ability to adapt are highly prized. His strong technique and disciplined blocking style would help keep Lamar Jackson upright and provide the offense with better protection in the pocket. In particular, Steen’s ability to anchor at the guard position in both the run and pass game would be a major asset for the Ravens’ offensive line.

Given the injury history along the offensive line in Baltimore, having a player like Steen on the roster would allow the team to shuffle players around as needed without skipping a beat. His experience in the toughest conference in college football has prepared him to step into the NFL immediately and provide a solid, dependable presence on the line. This would not only help Jackson in the passing game but would also allow the Ravens to strengthen their ground game, which remains a staple of their offense.

3. John Michael Schmitz (C, Minnesota)

The final name on the list is John Michael Schmitz, the standout center from the University of Minnesota. While the center position isn’t typically the flashiest on the offensive line, it is arguably one of the most important. The center is the quarterback’s first line of protection and is crucial in calling out blocking schemes and making adjustments pre-snap. Schmitz’s ability to anchor the offensive line with his intelligence, leadership, and technical prowess could provide the Ravens with the stability they need at center, which has been a bit of a revolving door position for the team in recent years.

At 6’4” and 320 pounds, Schmitz has the size and strength to match up against powerful defensive tackles. His ability to control the line of scrimmage is a trait that stands out on tape. He is adept at reading the defense, shifting protections, and making quick decisions under pressure, all of which are critical for an offense that thrives on tempo and quick execution, like the Ravens’. Schmitz also excels at maintaining balance and preventing defenders from getting into his body, a vital skill for any center trying to protect a mobile quarterback like Jackson.

Having Schmitz at center would give the Ravens a steady and reliable force in the middle of their offensive line, allowing their guards and tackles to focus on their individual assignments. Additionally, Schmitz’s ability to adjust to different defensive looks would ensure that Lamar Jackson has the best possible chance to stay safe in the pocket while also maintaining the fluidity and rhythm of the Ravens’ offense.

The Ravens’ Need for Depth

While the three players mentioned above are not household names yet, they each provide value where the Ravens need it most: depth, versatility, and stability along the offensive line. In today’s NFL, where offensive lines are often subject to injury, having a strong, capable backup is a must, and the Ravens need more than just starters – they need players who can come in and perform when needed, without sacrificing the integrity of the offense.

The Ravens have been fortunate to have a mobile quarterback in Lamar Jackson, but as seen in previous seasons, relying solely on Jackson’s athleticism and ability to extend plays puts a tremendous amount of stress on the offense. The team must prioritize providing him with a more stable pocket to operate in, especially after he was forced to miss part of the 2024 season due to injury.

Additionally, as the Ravens continue to build their offense around Jackson’s unique skill set, they need to create a system where the offensive line works in unison to complement his play. By adding players like Mauch, Steen, and Schmitz, the Ravens would not only improve their depth, but also enhance their ability to execute more dynamic plays, creating a more potent and balanced offensive attack.

The Road Ahead for the Ravens

The Ravens’ front office has a tall task ahead of them as they continue to adjust the roster for the 2025 season. While flashy acquisitions and high-profile names will likely dominate much of the offseason narrative, it is often the more “under-the-radar” moves that make the biggest difference. For the Ravens, that means looking at the offensive line and addressing the need for depth, versatility, and protection for Lamar Jackson.

Mauch, Steen, and Schmitz represent just a few of the names that could fill that need. With the right additions, the Ravens can improve their offensive line and provide Lamar Jackson with the stability he needs to take his game – and the team – to the next level. Though they may not grab headlines, these types of moves are crucial to long-term success, and the Ravens may be in for a very competitive 2025 season if they can address this under-the-radar need with one of these promising prospects.