The Ravens acquired Cam Jurgens to solve their center problems, with plans that extend beyond the current wave of offensive-line injuries. According to The Ringer'sTom Pelissero, Baltimore views the 27-year-old as a long-term starter and expects him to take over at center once he clears the concussion protocol.
Jurgens is a natural center and is excited to return to the position where he earned two Pro Bowl nods. With a new staff and scheme, he started at center for the Eagles in Week 1 and played well, before moving to left guard in Week 2 after Landon Dickerson landed on injured reserve. The Ravens had a pressing need after losing three centers in a five-week span. And this isn’t a stopgap for Baltimore—they view Jurgens, who just turned 27,
as a long-term solution at a vital position as they try to build the best O-line possible in front of Lamar Jackson. Jurgens is a good scheme fit and they liked him coming out of Nebraska back in 2022. Once Jurgens clears protocol, he’ll immediately be the starting center.
That distinction helps explain why the Ravens were willing to surrender a 2028 second-round pick despite Jurgens’ struggles at guard this season. Pelissero noted that Jurgens ranked 73rd among 74 qualifying guards in Pro Football Focus’ grading.
Baltimore is evaluating him for a different assignment.
Jurgens earned two Pro Bowl selections at center. He opened the season at that position for Philadelphia before moving to left guard in Week 2 after Landon Dickerson was placed on injured reserve. Pelissero reported that Jurgens is excited to return to center. The Ravens had lost three centers in a five-week span, creating an immediate need. However, their interest in Jurgens predates those injuries. Baltimore liked him coming out of Nebraska in 2022 and considers him a fit for its offensive scheme.
Jurgens’ arrival would also allow rookie Vega Ioane to return to guard after filling in at center. The Ravens are betting that restoring both players to their familiar positions will help stabilize the line in front of Lamar Jackson. The next step is getting Jurgens cleared and ready to play. Baltimore’s investment signals that it expects him to stay on that line well beyond this season.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Why Ravens looked past Cam Jurgens' struggles at guard to make trade
