John Simpson

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Ravens significantly overpaid for John Simpson, a move that earns an **F CVI** and represents one of the more questionable guard signings in recent memory. Committing $10M annually to an unproven interior lineman is a massive gamble that ignores the positional market, where proven above-average guards typically command this salary range. At 28, Simpson is entering what should be his prime years, but the lack of established production makes this feel more like paying for potential that may never materialize rather than securing a known commodity. The $17.5M in guaranteed money compounds the risk, essentially locking Baltimore into nearly two full seasons with a player whose track record doesn't justify starter money, let alone this premium. This contract screams desperation rather than strategic roster building, and unless Simpson makes an unexpected leap in performance, the Ravens will likely be eating dead money sooner than later while searching for his replacement.

Performance Analysis

John Simpson earns an F grade that marks him as one of the lowest-graded guards currently in the league. The Ravens brought him in hoping for competent interior line play, but the production has been far below replacement level. Simpson has bounced around after his time with the Raiders, and the pattern of below-average play has followed him. At this point, he's a last-resort option who would need a significant leap in performance to remain on a 53-man roster. The grade is about as harsh as it gets, and the tape supports the number.

Fan Sentiment

Baltimore lands a quality interior lineman on a sensible three-year deal to shore up a clear roster need. Five headlines confirm this was a legitimate priority signing, not a depth afterthought. A $30M commitment signals the Ravens view Simpson as a legitimate starting guard, not just a placeholder. Fans are relieved given Baltimore's offensive line struggles, though some question whether Simpson is truly an upgrade. If Simpson holds his starting spot, this move quietly stabilizes the Ravens' run-blocking identity for years ahead.