Ravens sign G John Simpson to 3-year, $30 million deal after Jets stint
The Baltimore Ravens have signed guard John Simpson to a three-year, $30 million contract, rekindling their relationship after his stint with the New York Jets.
Why it matters: Simpson's return to Baltimore aims to bolster an offensive line that has faced challenges in recent years, particularly in maintaining consistent protection for the quarterback and establishing a strong ground game.
- The Ravens offense, which often relies on a powerful running attack under head coach John Harbaugh, will benefit from Simpson’s experience and versatility on the line.
- With Lamar Jackson as the centerpiece of the Ravens' offense, solidifying the offensive line is critical for both passing and rushing efficiency.
What’s new: Simpson comes back to the Ravens following two productive seasons with the Jets, where he started every game and extended his consecutive starts streak to 51.
- His ability to play consistently can provide the stability needed for the Ravens as they look to improve upon last season’s performance.
- However, while he has shown durability, his penalties and pressure statistics raise questions about whether he can elevate the Ravens’ offensive line to elite status.
By the numbers: In 2025, Simpson was penalized 11 times for a total of 106 yards, marking the most penalty yardage among NFL offensive linemen.
- He also ranked 12th out of 17 left guards in pressure percentage allowed at 7.8%, indicating room for improvement in both discipline and effectiveness in pass protection.
- Such metrics highlight Simpson’s need to refine aspects of his game if he intends to be a pivotal asset for the Ravens moving forward.
Yes, but: Despite his past shortcomings, Simpson's track record suggests potential for growth in a familiar environment.
- After being drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders in the fourth round of the 2020 NFL Draft, he had an impactful rookie season but lost his starting job in 2022 before finding success with the Jets.
- The Ravens may see an opportunity to capitalize on his previous success, particularly since he started 17 games for them in 2023, signaling they value his experience within their system.
What’s next: The Ravens are likely to focus on integrating Simpson into their offensive scheme while addressing any areas of concern related to penalties and pressure rates.
- They will need to ensure that he meshes well with other key offensive players to create a cohesive unit capable of challenging defenses in the competitive AFC North.
- As training camp approaches, it will be crucial for the coaching staff to evaluate Simpson’s development and adaptability to maximize his contributions.
The bottom line: Signing John Simpson represents a strategic move for the Ravens as they aim to enhance their offensive line while providing a second chance for a player with proven resilience and experience in the league.
- If Simpson can harness his potential and minimize penalties, he could become a cornerstone piece in Baltimore’s quest for postseason success.
