John Simpson

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

John Simpson's contract earns a C+ Contract Value Index, with the AAV sitting where the comparable-tier deals tend to settle. The mismatch here is plain: a 6-year veteran guard commanding $10M annually while posting a D- performance grade creates immediate tension between what the Ravens are paying and what they're getting on tape. That said, Simpson's 2025 season shows he was available for the full slate of 17 games, which counts for something in an interior line context where durability and consecutive snaps matter. At 28 years old in the middle of his career, Simpson isn't a ceiling-raiser, but the media narrative around this signing—framed as a "smart move" to stabilize protection for Lamar Jackson—suggests the Ravens view his floor as starter-level consistency rather than upside. The three-year commitment does create some dead-cap risk if performance doesn't track with the investment, but the decision to lock him in offseason reflects Baltimore's explicit need for positional reliability. The CVI grade reflects a veteran deal that's reasonable for a proven starter, even if the underlying tape quality doesn't scream value.

Contracts in the Same Value Band

Other same-position deals the Contract Value Index also places in the C band — a quick read on where John's contract sits relative to comparable money.

Performance Analysis

John Simpson is a six-year veteran guard for the Baltimore Ravens who has appeared in 34 career games, establishing himself as a depth option along the offensive line rather than a featured starter. At 28 years old, Simpson's limited availability over his tenure raises questions about his durability and reliability as a cornerstone piece, though his presence in the Ravens' interior provides insurance and positional flexibility in a competitive AFC North division. His performance grades reflect solid but unspectacular contributions in pass protection and run blocking, suggesting he operates as a capable reserve rather than a difference-maker in the trenches. The Ravens' continued investment in Simpson indicates they value his experience and locker-room presence, though his modest tackle count in pass-blocking situations underscores his role as a positional backup. Moving forward, Simpson's path to increased snaps will likely depend on injuries ahead of him or a significant improvement in overall performance consistency. His trajectory as a career backup appears set, but his veteran presence remains valuable in a locker room development sense and as insurance against the injury attrition that routinely affects offensive line rooms.

How John Compares at the Position

John Simpson ranks 49th of 173 graded gs by performance. That slots John between Corey Levin (C+) just ahead and Quinn Meinerz (C) just behind.

Fan Sentiment

Ravens re-sign Simpson on a three-year deal to bolster their offensive line depth. Media coverage emphasizes Baltimore's commitment to making the unit more physical and aggressive. Simpson's return suggests the Ravens view him as a reliable, dependable interior lineman. Fans debate whether this addresses real line concerns or merely maintains status quo depth. Ravens hope Simpson provides consistency as a quality rotation piece for their running game.