The Baltimore Ravens have rounded out their 2026 draft class with a fascinating late-round pick: Evan Beerntsen, an offensive lineman from Northwestern. What immediately struck me about this selection is Beerntsen's unique journey to the NFL, which is far from the typical collegiate phenom narrative. He's not just a rookie; he's a seasoned veteran in terms of college experience, set to turn 26 this September. This isn't just a number; it speaks volumes about perseverance and the winding paths players can take.
The Long Road to Baltimore
Personally, I think Beerntsen's story is a testament to resilience. He spent a significant six years at South Dakota State, a period that included a redshirt year due to a shoulder injury. The NCAA's decision to grant him an extra year of eligibility, which he then used to transfer to Northwestern for his final season, is a crucial detail. It highlights how players are increasingly navigating the collegiate landscape to maximize their opportunities. While he boasts an impressive 54 career starts, mostly at right guard, the fact that only one of those seasons was at the FBS level is a significant point of discussion. Many might see his age and extensive college career as a potential drawback, but I see it as a sign of maturity and a deep understanding of the game. He's not coming in with the typical starry-eyed freshman mentality; he's a calculated risk with a wealth of experience.
Championship Pedigree and Projecting to the NFL
What makes Beerntsen particularly intriguing is his championship pedigree. He was a starter on back-to-back FCS national championship teams at South Dakota State in 2022 and 2023. This isn't just about winning; it's about performing under the highest pressure. His reputation as a tenacious, physical blocker with a strength in run blocking is precisely what teams look for in the trenches. However, at 6-foot-3 and 301 pounds, the question arises: will he possess the requisite power and refined technique to make an impact at the NFL level? From my perspective, this is where the real development will need to occur. The transition from FCS to the NFL is a massive leap, and while his physical tools are there, the polish is what separates the good from the great.
The Center Conundrum and a Shrine Week Spark
One detail that I find especially interesting is the positional projection. While Beerntsen has seen some snaps at center, his primary experience lies at right guard. The Ravens, interestingly, have an open competition for their starting center position, but it's not viewed as his strongest suit. General Manager Eric DeCosta’s comments about Beerntsen being their highest-rated player at that point in the draft, citing his “physical, tough, gritty type of Big 10, Midwest offensive lineman” qualities, are telling. It suggests they see his potential beyond just his listed position. Furthermore, his strong showing during East-West Shrine Week was a critical factor. This event provides a platform for players to prove their draft worth against a higher caliber of competition, and Beerntsen clearly seized that opportunity. It’s a classic example of how a player can significantly boost their stock with a strong performance on a national stage.
A Midwestern Grit and Future Potential
Finally, Beerntsen's roots in Wisconsin, specifically North Appleton, add another layer to his story. He wasn't a highly sought-after recruit out of high school, which, in my opinion, makes his journey even more compelling. It’s a narrative of steady development and overcoming early career setbacks. He’s played his best football in the last two seasons, and while he's getting a late start in the NFL, his best football might still be ahead of him. This raises a deeper question: can a player with his extensive college experience and late start still develop into a consistent NFL contributor? I believe his grit, determination, and the sheer volume of game experience he brings give him a fighting chance. The Ravens are betting on that potential, and it will be fascinating to watch his progress as he attempts to carve out a role on an NFL roster.
