The Baltimore Ravens have added another veteran to their offensive line, signing former Los Angeles Rams Tackle Joe Noteboom to a one-year deal. The move comes as the team continues to retool its offensive front following several departures this offseason. Noteboom brings experience, versatility, and depth to a line that saw significant changes over the past few months. While his injury history raises questions, the Ravens are banking on his ability to contribute when needed.
A New Start After a Rocky Stretch In Los Angeles
Joe Noteboom spent the first seven seasons of his NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams. Drafted in the third round in 2018 out of TCU, Noteboom entered the league with high expectations. Over the years, he proved himself as a versatile offensive lineman who could fill in at multiple spots. He played in 71 games and made 35 starts during his time with the Rams. His flexibility made him a valuable utility piece, especially during injuries or lineup shuffles.
He was part of the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI championship team and contributed meaningfully during that season. But despite the highs, his time in Los Angeles was often derailed by injury. In 2019, he tore his ACL and MCL. In 2022, he suffered a torn Achilles. An ankle injury limited him to just four games in 2024. These setbacks made it difficult for him to establish long-term stability in the lineup.
Even so, when healthy, Noteboom showed he could compete at a high level. The Ravens are hoping they can keep him on the field and tap into that experience as they work toward another deep playoff push.
Ravens Seek Veteran Stability On the Line
The Ravens’ offensive line took some hits during the 2025 offseason. Veteran backup Patrick Mekari left in free agency, as did swing Lineman Josh Jones. That left the team short on experienced depth. Head Coach John Harbaugh made it clear they were looking for someone who could step in across multiple positions and Noteboom fits that mold.
“He is a veteran, talented guy who has played both sides,” Harbaugh said during a team media session. “That is kind of where we really need that veteran presence as a swing tackle, play both sides and then yes, he can pop down there at guard.”
The Ravens also addressed the line in the draft, selecting Emery Jones Jr. in the third round, Carson Vinson in the fifth, and Garrett Dellinger in the seventh. Noteboom is expected to serve as a mentor to the rookies while also preparing to be ready for action himself. He may not be a starter, but his presence gives the team insurance against injuries or unexpected struggles among the younger players.
Low-Risk Move with Potential Upside
At this stage in his career, Noteboom is not being brought in to be the star of the show. The Ravens are not asking him to carry the offensive line or be on the field every snap. They are bringing him in to be ready. To plug in when needed and bring experience into a room that suddenly looks younger.
There are risks. His injury history is not a small concern. But the Ravens are taking a calculated chance that, in a reduced role, he can stay healthy and provide value. If things go well, he will be an asset. If not, the one-year deal makes it easy to move on.
This is the kind of move teams make when they are serious about competing deep into January. They know that the guys who start the season are not always the ones who finish it. In that kind of league, having someone like Noteboom waiting in the wings just might make a difference.
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