One of the most heavily-impacted position groups during the Baltimore Ravens’ injury-riddled 2021 campaign was offensive tackle. All-Pro blindside protector, Ronnie Stanley, played in just one game and didn’t see the field again after the season opener.
Patrick Mekari was solid for the most part in 12 starts at right tackle. Despite his valiant efforts, Alejandro Villanueva was an underwhelming replacement for Stanley and a turnstile at times in some crucial moments.
Their lack of depth at the position reared its ugly head and was evident when Mekari had to miss time with injury and by the fact that they didn’t have a good enough backup option to allow them to bench Villanueva when he was clearly overwhelmed and outmatched.