Ravens Target Younger Version of Kevin Zeitler in 2024 NFL Draft
The Baltimore Ravens are prioritizing the reinforcement of their offensive line this offseason, with several pending free agents and aging starters. One of those free agents is guard Kevin Zeitler, but the Ravens have their eyes on a potential replacement in Kansas State’s Cooper Beebe. In the latest mock draft by NFL.com’s Chad Reuter, Beebe is projected as the 30th overall pick. Reuter believes that Beebe could be a younger version of Zeitler, who is set to become a free agent. Beebe’s versatility is also a selling point, as he has demonstrated the ability to switch between tackle spots and left guard during games.
Beebe’s ability to play multiple positions would be a valuable asset for the Ravens, especially with Zeitler’s fellow starting guard John Simpson also entering free agency, and right tackle Morgan Moses approaching 32 years old. The Ravens’ offense heavily relies on mobile and powerful guards, as evidenced by their league-leading rushing performance last season, where Zeitler and Simpson played crucial roles.
Scouts evaluating Beebe will find a lineman who is described by ESPN’s Jordan Reid as “sturdy, physical, and dependable.” At 6-3 1/4 and 331 pounds, Beebe has the potential to be a plug-and-play starter at guard in the NFL. His playing style aligns well with a power-based running game, which the Ravens employ, utilizing gap concepts, counters, and pin-and-pull plays. Highlight reels from NFL on CBS show Beebe’s punishing blocks and his ability to create space for his teammates.
Considering the concerns surrounding Zeitler and Simpson’s potential departure, as well as the age and injury concerns surrounding Moses and left tackle Ronnie Stanley, the Ravens are aware of the need for another starting-caliber guard. While the cupboard isn’t completely bare, according to Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic, adding Beebe to the roster would provide further depth and ensure a smooth transition from Zeitler. Simpson’s impressive performance during the 2023 season, with seven big-time blocks leading the NFL, further highlights the importance of securing a strong replacement.
ZEITLER’S IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE AGAINST AARON DONALD
Kevin Zeitler, the veteran right guard for the Baltimore Ravens, showcased his effectiveness throughout the season. According to Pro Football Focus, Zeitler only allowed 19 pressures and two sacks on 574 pass-blocking snaps. One of his standout moments came in Week 14 when he faced off against Aaron Donald and the Los Angeles Rams.
During the play, Zeitler initially engaged Donald well but was eventually beaten by the three-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year. However, he didn’t give up and continued to track Donald, preventing a sure sack. Ryan Mink, the Editorial Director of Ravens.com, highlighted Zeitler’s crucial block that saved the Ravens from facing a 2nd-and-22 situation on their late fourth-quarter comeback drive.
The Ravens, facing salary cap constraints, cannot afford to easily replace quality starters like Zeitler and Simpson. Instead, they may need to turn to the draft for long-term solutions. This approach has proven successful in the past, as seen when general manager Eric DeCosta selected Tyler Linderbaum as the 25th overall pick in 2022. Linderbaum has since developed into one of the top centers in the league.
If the Ravens can replicate this success by finding another gem like Linderbaum in the draft, it would be a significant achievement. Doing so would make it easier for the team to let go of Zeitler and Simpson in free agency.
James Dudko, a sports reporter, covers the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Baltimore Ravens for a tabloid format.
According to the Source heavy.com