The Baltimore Ravens’ commerce for heart Ryan Neuzil from the Atlanta Falcons is a head-scratcher. Some would possibly view this as nothing greater than a depth transfer, however I feel there’s one other risk price contemplating: Baltimore may very well be seeking to enhance its offensive line by giving Neuzil a possibility to compete at guard and probably shifting John Simpson to the bench.
Baltimore acquired Neuzil on Tuesday in change for guard Andrew Vorhees and a reported conditional 2028 sixth-round decide. The transfer additionally reunites him with offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford, who coached him in Atlanta. That familiarity offers the Ravens a participant with expertise in Ledford’s method, even because the teaching workers determines the place he suits alongside Cam Jurgens, John Simpson and Vega Ioane.
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At first look, buying one other heart might sound uncommon, notably if the Ravens have already got their plans set for the inside offensive line. Nevertheless, Neuzil’s versatility might make this transaction extra fascinating than it initially seems. If Baltimore believes he can deal with guard duties, this commerce might give the teaching workers an alternative choice whereas creating competitors at a place that deserves consideration.
That brings us to Simpson. Is that this merely about having one other skilled offensive lineman out there, or might the Ravens be questioning whether or not Simpson is the best match of their present beginning lineup? Shifting him to the bench would possibly sound drastic, however competitors ought to by no means be a nasty factor, particularly relating to defending the quarterback and establishing a constant operating sport.
After all, it is too early to imagine Neuzil will instantly take over a beginning place. The Ravens might merely be including insurance coverage and giving themselves extra flexibility up entrance. Nonetheless, I would not dismiss the likelihood that there is extra behind this commerce than meets the attention.
There’s additionally an easy depth rationalization. Baltimore had Vorhees and Emery Jones Jr. out there behind its beginning guards, however accidents had depleted its choices at heart and beforehand compelled Ioane to maneuver inside. Neuzil offers the Ravens an skilled various with out requiring one other emergency place change. His arrival creates prospects, however a contest involving Simpson would must be established via apply assignments and training choices, not assumed from the commerce alone.
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For now, that is an intriguing transfer that raises extra questions than solutions. And if Neuzil finally finally ends up at guard, this commerce might have greater implications for Baltimore’s offensive line than many initially understand.
This text initially appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens’ commerce for Ryan Neuzil provides depth and inquiries to offensive line
