Ben Grubbs is the future of the Ravens offensive line. But right now, the guard is more concerned with the present.
The 6-foot-3, 315-pound rookie from Auburn joins the Ravens at a critical time. Future Hall of Fame left tackle Jonathan Ogden and veteran center Mike Flynn still represent the core of the team?s front five. However, the team is preparing for life without two of the team?s few remaining players from the squad that won Super Bowl XXXV in 2001.
“I?m comfortable where I?m at as far as the system,” Grubbs said. “Everybody on the team can learn more, but right now I have the basics down.”
Over the past three years, the Ravens have drafted numerous offensive linemen, including Jason Brown, Adam Terry, Marshal Yanda and former Maryland tackle Jared Gaither. But Grubbs, the 29th pick in this year?s draft, is considered the group?s centerpiece.
Grubbs, who was slowed by a strained right knee for most of training camp, gave the Ravens their first glimpse of his potential Aug. 19. He started for an injured Chris Chester at right guard and played well against the New York Giants. He said the biggest transition he?s made was adjusting to the physicality of NFL.
“It?s physical in the trenches,” Grubbs said. “In practice we only go so much. But in the game there are a lot of bullies out there. So it?s definitely a transition from practice to the game. But I guess you have to prepare for it mentally and physically and be ready for it.”
Flynn said he sees a lot of potential in Grubbs and the other young offensive linemen. However, Flynn also believes it takes time to adjust to playing in the NFL and develop the chemistry needed to have a cohesive unit.
“They?ve played really well so far,” Flynn said. “It?s a good mix much like the one we had the year we won the Super Bowl. We had a couple of guys who were in the league for a few years and a number of younger guys like myself. You have smart veterans that can help out week to week while the young guys are learning from scratch, and eventually, they can help the veterans out.”
Grubbs said he is aware of the Ravens future plans for him, but right now he is focusing on developing his individual skills. He also never has to go far for advice, as his locker is between Ogden and Flynn?s.
“Right now, I?m just concerned about getting the basics down,” Grubbs said. “It?s been all work for me after getting over the initial excitement of joining the NFL following my press conference after the draft. The biggest thing for me is to continue to pick up the system andnot make the same mistake two days in a row.”
