Full Breakdown
Ravens Name Jovaughn Gwyn Starting Center for Week 1 vs. Colts
9/8/2026, 12:56:32 AM
Core Decision: Gwyn to Snap in Season Opener
Head coach Jesse Minter announced that Jovaughn Gwyn will start at center for the Baltimore Ravens in their opening game against the Indianapolis Colts.
Background & Context
The Ravens entered the 2026 offseason without a clear successor to Pro-Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum, who left in free agency. A three-way competition developed among Gwyn, veteran Ethan Pocic, and Danny Pinter. The contest shifted dramatically when Pinter suffered a season-ending torn patellar tendon on August 19. Pocic, a nine-year veteran, was still recovering from an Achilles injury sustained the previous December. Gwyn’s familiarity with offensive-line coach Dwayne Ledford, established during three seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, gave him an edge in the final assessment.
Data & Statistics
- Jovaughn Gwyn – 2023 seventh-round pick; no prior NFL starts; appeared in 11 offensive snaps over three seasons with the Falcons.
- Ethan Pocic – 97 career starts across nine NFL seasons; signed a one-year deal in the offseason (reported at $3 million by one outlet and $4.5 million by another).
- Danny Pinter – season-ending injury on August 19 removed him from the competition.
- Tyler Linderbaum – departed in free agency, creating the vacancy at center.
Official Statements & Responses
Minter said the coaching staff has “a lot of confidence” in Gwyn’s readiness and highlighted his experience with Ledford’s scheme as a factor in the decision. The Ravens framed the choice as a pragmatic response to injuries and scheme familiarity rather than a long-term commitment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Got a lot of confidence in him,” — Jesse Minter, head coach
- “He came in with a lot of experience with Coach Ledford and some things schematically that carry over,” — Jesse Minter, head coach
- “I think we have two really capable centers,” — Jesse Minter, head coach
- “Obviously, we know what Ethan is capable of,” — Jesse Minter, head coach
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Reports differ on the financial terms of Pocic’s contract: one source lists a one-year, $3 million deal, while another cites a $4.5 million agreement. No official figure has been confirmed by the team. Additionally, while the Ravens have identified Gwyn as the starter for Week 1, the timeline for a potential return to the lineup for Pocic or other interior linemen remains unspecified.
What’s Next
The Ravens indicated that the center position will be reassessed after the opening game, with Pocic’s health and performance in practice influencing future decisions. The outcome of the Week 1 matchup against the Colts’ interior defensive line—featuring veterans DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart—will provide an early benchmark for Gwyn’s integration into the offensive unit.
