Ravens OL Cleveland suspended three games for violating NFL's substance abuse policy

Ben Cleveland, a reserve offensive lineman for the Baltimore Ravens, has been suspended for three games without pay due to a violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy.

Why it matters: Cleveland’s suspension highlights ongoing issues surrounding player conduct and discipline in the league, particularly regarding substance abuse and driving under the influence.

• The Ravens will be missing depth on their offensive line, which could impact their performance as they aim for playoff contention.
• Cleveland's history, including previous DUI charges, raises questions about how teams manage player behavior off the field.

What’s new: Cleveland's three-game suspension follows his guilty plea for DUI and a subsequent citation for excessive blood alcohol concentration (BAC) earlier this year.

• His BAC was recorded at .178, more than twice the legal limit of .08.
• This is not Cleveland's first encounter with law enforcement; he has been placed on probation for one year following his guilty plea last November.

By the numbers: Since being drafted by the Ravens in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Cleveland has had limited visibility on the field.

• He has only played three offensive snaps this season and has been a healthy scratch for the last three games, indicating that he has struggled to secure a prominent role in the team's game plan.

Yes, but: While Cleveland's absence may be felt, the Ravens have managed their offensive line effectively despite injuries and personnel changes.

• The team re-signed Cleveland to a one-year contract worth $1.170 million in March, suggesting they still see potential in him despite recent off-field challenges.
• Baltimore's offensive scheme, which often relies on strong run-blocking from its linemen, can adapt, allowing other players to step up in his absence.

What’s next: Following his suspension, Cleveland will need to focus on rehabilitation and regaining the trust of both his teammates and coaches.

• Upon returning, he will face scrutiny over his performance and commitment to improving his behavior off the field.
• The Ravens organization will likely continue to monitor his progress, especially in light of their investment in his future.

The bottom line: Cleveland's situation serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with wearing an NFL jersey, both on and off the field.

• As he serves his suspension, the Ravens may reassess their roster strategy and the culture surrounding player accountability moving forward.