What the Ravens Reportedly Offered Tyler Linderbaum Before He Went to the Raiders

Strengthening the guard position was near the top of the Ravens’ offseason priorities, and the reported reunion with the 28-year-old Simpson was a step in the right direction.

Here’s a look at what pundits said about the move:

The Athletic’s Daniel Popper: “Grade: A. Guard was a weak spot for the Ravens last season, and Simpson will elevate the team’s interior. Right guard Daniel Faalele is a free agent. Andrew Vorhees, a seventh-round pick in 2023, started at left guard. Simpson has been predominantly a left guard in his career. He is a technically sound pass protector with quick hands and a sturdy base. He has a mean, violent, attacking play style and packs a punch at contact, including when moving north as a run blocker. New Ravens Head Coach Jesse Minter is a Jim and John Harbaugh disciple. Simpson is the type of player that can set the tone for the physical brand of football Minter prioritizes. And the money is right based on Simpson’s 2025 tape with the New York Jets.”

Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano: “Grade: B. Simpson was a serviceable starter for the Jets over the past two seasons, never missing a game. But the veteran found his footing with the Ravens during the 2023 season, and now he’s back with the intent of getting this stacked roster to the Super Bowl. Also, Baltimore needs help on the interior after the free-agency departure of center Tyler Linderbaum.”

Zrebiec: “Simpson has been penalty-prone and inconsistent at times, but he’s also tough, durable (he hasn’t missed a start in three straight seasons) and a good teammate. The Ravens had to come out of the first couple of days of free agency with a starting-caliber guard, and Simpson fits that and comes at a decent price tag.”

The Baltimore Sun’s Brian Wacker: “He gives the Ravens experience and should benefit from new offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford, who joined new coach Jesse Minter’s staff from the Atlanta Falcons. Simpson should also be an upgrade over Andrew Vorhees, who struggled last year.”