Jonathan Ogden Retires, and Offensive Line Crumbles in Baltimore

Following a dismal 5-11 finish to last season, the Baltimore Ravens should expect to lose their 11 time Pro-Bowl offensive tackle tomorrow. Baltimore's local paper the Baltimore Sun reports they have received word from Johnathan Ogden that he will hang up the helmet and pads after 12 seasons in the NFL. 

This will come as no surprise to fans and the franchise since a toe injury that has been bothering Ogden lately and he has expressed he was pondering the idea of retirement. 

No surprise does not mean no worries, however, as Baltimore's coaching staff will have plenty to figure out when answering to last seasons 39 sacks, which is 2.4 sacks allowed a game. The line also allowed for only a mediocre 16th best running game in the NFL. 

Take into consideration that performance was with their All-Pro offensive tackle on hand for ten games. Without Ogden, sacks and poor rushing performances could plague the Ravens in 2008. 

Let us not forget the most important question: Where do they find leadership in the offensive line? 

The Ravens need answers to this fast. Right now, the best the Ravens are looking at is moving forward with second year player Jared Gaither. 

However, Gaitheris not Ogden, and if the coaching staff expects him to be, they have another thing coming.  The locker room presence that Ogden brought will not be match by anyone next year. 

Management will need to figure this one out over the next few years, because replacing a 12-year veteran who has seen all his seasons with your franchise is impossible.

Bottom Line: Great career Johnathan Ogden and good luck to the Baltimore Ravens with replacing him with someone half as good.