Ravens' late-round rookie making push for starting role

The Ravens lost one of the pillars to their offensive line this offseason in guard Ben Powers, who helped them have one of the best rushing attacks in the league. But one of the team's late-round rookies may just be the answer to the position.

Offensive guard Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, Baltimore's 2023 sixth-round pick out of Oregon, has earned first-team reps at left guard. 

Of course, it doesn't mean he will win the job with training camp still at its beginning stages, but it proves the Ravens weren't just experimenting when Aumavae-Laulu received first-team reps in earlier minicamps.

Powers leaves a massive hole on Baltimore's offensive line after allowing zero sacks and being penalized just once in 2022, according to Pro Football Focus. Whoever can help fill the void best will win the starting job.

Following the 2022 season, many believed 2021 third-round pick Ben Cleveland would take over, and he still may. But if Aumavae-Laulu continues to show out in camp, the Ravens won't be able to ignore it.

Other than left guard, Baltimore's O-line should be returning from last season, which should help the transition of the team's new left guard.

There is still a long way to go, but it will certainly be a battle in the trenches as the Ravens shape their roster for the 2023 season.