As expected, theBaltimore Ravens made significant changes to their offensive line this offseason, particularly along the interior. While questions remain about how the unit will perform once the games begin, general manager Eric DeCosta likes what he has seen so far.
While speaking with reporters on Wednesday, just a few days after the Ravens introduced their initial 53-man roster, DeCosta expressed optimism about the group's progress while acknowledging that the true evaluation won't come until the regular season starts. Even so, he believes the foundation is in place for the offensive line to become a strength as the year unfolds.
"I think we are headed in the right direction. I feel really good about how the group has done overall."
The Ravens
will rely on several new starters this season, making the offensive line one of the roster's most important storylines heading into Week 1. DeCosta credited run game coordinator and offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford for preparing the unit and helping several players take meaningful steps forward throughout the offseason.
The Ravens like the direction their offensive line is headed in
DeCosta specifically mentioned John Simpson, Vega Ioane, Jovaughn Gwyn and Ethan Pocic while discussing the revamped unit. He also noted that younger players throughout the room have shown encouraging development during training camp. Perhaps most importantly, the Ravens believe the group has room to grow.
"I do not know what it is going to look like Week 1 because I have not seen what it is going to look like yet, but I am excited about it, and I think that we will probably build and build and build."
That long-term outlook may be the most telling part of DeCosta's assessment. Rather than focusing solely on early-season results, Baltimore appears confident that continuity and experience within the system will allow the offensive line to improve throughout the year.
If that happens, the Ravens could enter the postseason with one of their most important offseason questions fully answered. If they figure out what they want for the anchor, i.e., the center position, this group could truly exceed current expectations.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Eric DeCosta is encouraged by the Ravens’ revamped offensive line
