Ravens’ Lineman Ben Cleveland Arrested for DUI: Impact on His NFL Career
The Baltimore Ravens faced a troubling situation with the recent arrest of their offensive lineman, Ben Cleveland. The incident, which unfolded last Wednesday, involved Cleveland allegedly driving his truck with a blood alcohol content (BAC) that was more than double the legal limit. Police detained him for driving under the influence of alcohol, revealing a BAC level of .178, significantly surpassing the legal threshold of .08. Subsequent tests conducted at a nearby facility indicated a BAC level of .161.
The Unraveling Incident
According to reports, Cleveland, a third-round pick from the University of Georgia in the 2021 NFL Draft, was pulled over around 10:25 PM after displaying erratic driving behavior, including swerving and nearly veering off the road. During the stop, authorities noted Cleveland’s admission of consuming “approximately 3-4 beers” at a country club before taking the wheel. Observations of glossy eyes and the smell of alcohol in his vehicle further corroborated the allegation.
Reflecting on Cleveland’s Ravens Career
The turn of events surrounding Ben Cleveland is particularly disheartening for the Baltimore Ravens, given his tenure with the team. Since joining as a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Cleveland has appeared in 54 games, starting in seven of them. Notably, his performance in the 2024 season included a crucial blocked field goal against the Washington Commanders in Week 6, contributing to the Ravens’ victory.
As Cleveland enters his fifth year in the league, the implications of his recent arrest are magnified by his impending unrestricted free agency next month. The Ravens now face a pivotal decision regarding his future with the team, amidst concerns over his off-field behavior.
Conclusion
The shocking DUI incident involving Ben Cleveland has cast a shadow over his otherwise promising NFL career. The aftermath of his arrest raises questions about his future with the Baltimore Ravens and underscores the challenges athletes face when navigating personal decisions that can significantly impact their professional trajectory. As Cleveland navigates the repercussions of his actions, the football community awaits the resolution of this unsettling episode and its implications for his standing within the league.
