Ravens Predicted to Snag Lamar Jackson Complement in 2026 NFL Draft

Experts believe the Ravens will target an offensive lineman to help bolster their running game and protect their star QB.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 12:06am

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A fragmented, multi-angled painting depicting a football game or match, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in vibrant colors like deep purple, burnt orange, and electric blue, creating a sense of motion and energy.A cubist interpretation of the Ravens' offensive line, deconstructed into dynamic geometric shapes, symbolizing the team's efforts to rebuild and reinvent their blocking schemes around Lamar Jackson.Baltimore Today

The Baltimore Ravens are being predicted to land a Lamar Jackson complement in the 2026 NFL draft, as the team tries to rebuild after a disappointing 8-9 season in 2025. NFL experts are forecasting the Ravens will select offensive lineman Spencer Fano out of Utah with their first-round pick, citing his athleticism, versatility, and run-blocking skills as a perfect fit for the team's zone-heavy offensive scheme under new coordinator Declan Doyle.

Why it matters

The Ravens' offense has revolved around Lamar Jackson's dynamic playmaking ability, but the team struggled last season and needs to find ways to better support their star quarterback. Drafting an offensive lineman like Fano could help shore up the running game and provide better protection for Jackson, potentially putting the Ravens back in contention for a Super Bowl run.

The details

According to analysts Nate Tice and Charles McDonald of Yahoo Sports, the Ravens would be "more than happy" to add Fano's athleticism and movement ability to their offensive line, potentially even as a future replacement for center Tyler Linderbaum. Fano's run-blocking prowess would also be a "perfect fit" for the team's expected shift to a more zone-heavy offensive scheme under new coordinator Declan Doyle.

  • The 2026 NFL draft is scheduled for April.
  • The Ravens finished the 2025 season with an 8-9 record.

The players

Lamar Jackson

The Ravens' star quarterback and former NFL MVP.

Spencer Fano

A highly touted offensive lineman prospect out of the University of Utah, projected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL draft.

Tyler Linderbaum

The Ravens' current starting center, who Fano could potentially replace in the future.

Declan Doyle

The Ravens' new offensive coordinator, who is expected to implement a more zone-heavy offensive scheme.

John Simpson

A powerful offensive lineman who could complement Fano's athleticism on the Ravens' offensive line.

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What they’re saying

“Whether Fano can hang at tackle doesn't really matter for the Ravens, who would be more than happy to add his athleticism, versatility, and movement ability as they look to rework their interior.”

— Nate Tice, NFL Analyst

“Fano's light feet and run blocking chops will be a perfect fit opposite of John Simpson.”

— Charles McDonald, NFL Analyst

What’s next

As the 2026 NFL draft approaches, the Ravens will continue to evaluate their options and determine if Fano is the best fit to help support Lamar Jackson and improve their offense.

The takeaway

The Ravens' selection of Spencer Fano in the 2026 draft could be a key move to bolster their offensive line and running game, providing better protection and support for star quarterback Lamar Jackson as the team looks to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season.