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1d ago
Ravens get Lamar Jackson ultimate protector in latest mock draft | Sporting News
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- The Ravens are prioritizing a stronger interior offensive line to protect Lamar Jackson and support a healthier, more productive 2026 season.
- Jackson has absorbed 36 sacks in 13 games, underscoring the urgency to bolster pass protection this offseason.
- NFL.com mock draft projections place Penn State's Olaivavega Ioane as Baltimore's first interior-O-line target, signaling a focus on a high-floor starter.
- The piece frames Ioane as a potential immediate upgrade on the interior line, reinforcing the Ravens' run-blocking and pass-protection balance.
- Baltimore could pursue Ioane in the first round or address guard needs through free agency to protect Jackson.
- Protection is treated as the No. 1 key to keeping Jackson healthy and maximizing his performance in 2026.
- The analysis notes Linderbaum's impending free agency heightens the urgency to secure a solid interior blocker.
- The piece highlights the option of leveraging free agency to land veteran guards such as Bitonio, Teller, Seumalo, Simpson, or Zeitler to stabilize the line.
- The mock draft scenario underscores Baltimore's strategy to rebuild the interior line while preserving its identity of a physical, run-heavy offense.
- Overall, the plan combines drafting Ioane with veteran signings to create a balanced, durable O-line to support both pass protection and the rushing attack.
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