The Baltimore Ravens are currently slated to have 10 picks in the 2022 NFL draft. They have plenty of needs to fill that have been identified currently, and there could be more depending on what happens over the first few weeks of 2022 free agency.
Maurice Moten of Bleacher Report put together how the 2022 draft can solve each NFL team’s biggest problem. For Baltimore, his answer is University of Iowa center Tyler Linderbaum, who his widely considered the best center prospect in the country. When explaining his choice for the Ravens, Moten talked about the uncertainly surrounding current Baltimore center Bradley Bozeman.
“The Ravens don’t have a clear-cut answer at center. Bradley Bozeman logged the majority of snaps at the position this past campaign, and he’s on an expiring contract. Baltimore can stabilize its offensive line with arguably the best incoming center….Tyler Linderbaum could man the pivot for the next 10 years at the pro level. He’s technically sound with active hands, solid lateral foot movement and a ton of experience at the position (33 collegiate starts).”
Moten also talked about how Linderbaum would help quarterback Lamar Jackson out in a big way.
“Linderbaum would help quarterback Lamar Jackson set protections and seal off blocks for him in the A and B gaps. At 6’3″, 290 pounds, he has to bulk up for matchups with strong, stocky defensive tackles, but the former Hawkeye can move well in space, which is a great fit for a team that allows its quarterback to make plays with his legs.”
Drafting a center with pick No. 14 would be questioned by some. However, if Bozeman leaves in free agency there would be a sizable hole in the middle of their offensive line, which Linderbaum could certainly fill.