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The Ravens had a rushing attack that was almost unprecedented for the modern era in 2018. A huge part of that was a mauling offensive line which got downhill in the ground game, and kept Lamar Jackson upright.
They’ll look to upgrade at certain spots along it in the offseason, particularly in the interior. Let’s take a look at some of the lower profile guys who may not cost as much as the first names to fly off the board:
Quinton Spain, Tennessee Titans
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The 27 year old guard isn’t the best run blocking option, which may not totally fit with what Greg Roman would like to do. Despite that, he’s started 42 games over the past year and grades out as an above average pass blocker per Pro Footballs Focus (75.6, #23 overall among guards).
If the Ravens want to build a line of road graders left to right, Spain may not be their guy. His dependability would be an asset though, something that can’t be said of a few options Baltimore currently have on the interior line.
James Carpenter, New York Jets
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Carpenter fits into a similar mold as Spain. He’s a dependable, solid veteran who’s known more for standing up and pass blocking than getting downhill.
He hasn’t lived up to his first round pedigree, but he’s started at least ten games every year since 2013 including three straight sixteen games seasons before this past one. Again, not the mauler Baltimore may be looking for, but there would be bang for the buck nonetheless.
D.J. Fluker, Seattle Seahawks
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The former first rounder is probably a better scheme fit than the first two guys. He had a down year in terms of his run blocking in 2018, but that seems to be what he’s known for regardless. This could be a high-upside type project that Roman and Joe D’Alessandris could turn into a worthwhile signing.
John Sullivan, Los Angeles Rams
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While his best days seem to be behind him, Sullivan was still the starter in the middle for the NFC champions in 2018. He’s still a decent pass blocker and would provide a solid veteran presence to the interior of a line that lacks it outside of Marshal Yanda.