What's Happening?
The Baltimore Ravens have announced that offensive lineman Ben Cleveland has been suspended for three games without pay due to a violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy. This suspension follows a DUI
arrest in Georgia earlier this year, where Cleveland was found with a blood alcohol content of .178, more than twice the legal limit. Despite these legal issues, the Ravens re-signed Cleveland to a one-year deal. Cleveland, who was drafted in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has played in 64 games with seven starts for the Ravens. Recently, he has been a healthy scratch for the past three weeks. The Ravens are currently struggling in the AFC playoff picture, with a 6-7 record following a recent loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Why It's Important?
The suspension of Ben Cleveland is significant for the Ravens as they face a challenging end to their season. With the team already dealing with issues on the offensive line, losing a player, even a reserve like Cleveland, could impact their performance. The Ravens are in a precarious position in the AFC playoff race, and any disruption could further hinder their chances. Additionally, this incident highlights ongoing concerns about player conduct and the enforcement of the NFL's substance abuse policy. The league's strict stance on such violations serves as a reminder of the professional standards expected of players.
What's Next?
The Ravens will need to adjust their strategy as they prepare for their remaining games against strong opponents like the Cincinnati Bengals and the Green Bay Packers. The team will likely rely on other players to fill the gap left by Cleveland's suspension. Meanwhile, Cleveland's future with the Ravens and in the NFL may be uncertain, depending on his ability to comply with league policies and maintain his performance on the field.
