A professional player eight times, Yanda has a resume in the Hall of Fame that can be imposing for any player who follows in his footsteps. However, Zeitler said he saw playing right guard in Baltimore as a great opportunity and will not be intimidated by Yanda’s legacy.
“Without fear,” said Zeitler. “This point in the history of the Baltimore Ravens is a very good place. I am ready to continue with the tradition.”
It wasn’t just Yanda’s words that persuaded Zeitler, nor was it all about money. Entering his 10th NFL season, Zeitler never won a Super Bowl and he doesn’t want to wait any longer. He sees the Ravens as a team that can play until February.
“Reaching tenth year in the league, you start to consider that,” said Zeitler. “Winning is important. Where is the team? Are they candidates? Everything influences the decision. The teams that I considered in the end, that really was a big factor in the decision process.”
Zeitler is also looking forward to joining the Ravens’ accelerated attack, which has been the best in the NFL for two consecutive seasons. After spending seven seasons at AFC North playing for Cincinnati Bengals (five seasons) and Cleveland Browns (two seasons), Zeitler says the Ravens’ heavy running style suits him. He is also excited to block for the league’s most electrifying quarterback, Lamar Jackson.
“Absolutely dynamic, his ability to make something happen in the race,” said Zeitler. “I saw it, I’ve dealt with it by playing against it a few times. It’s an exciting factor. It just adds a new aspect to the attack.
“Being at AFC Norte so much, I think it’s more my style of ball. Seeing what the Ravens have done in recent years, both offensively and defensively, it seems like a great choice. I played at M&T Bank Stadium many times. It has been a real pain. It will be good to go out through the other tunnel. “