How George Warhop Coaches Ravens Offensive Line in Tough Situation

Baltimore’s revamped offense had its ups and downs in a Week 1 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, but Warhop’s effort and resiliency impressed. In his first NFL game, rookie right tackle Roger Rosengarten was taken down by All-Pro Chris Jones for a sack-fumble, but Lamar Jackson wasn’t sacked again and Rosengarten improved as the game went on.

Ronnie Stanley felt like he was being targeted when he was assessed three foul penalties, but he played a good game and kept fighting. Warhop blamed himself for the foul penalties, but doesn’t expect any more trouble when the Ravens face the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 2.

“I like the mentality we played with. I thought they were physical. I think they played the whole game, never flinching, which gave us a chance at the end, to have a chance to extend the game,” Warhop said. “Technically, we have to make some catch-ups. They’re not big catch-ups, just be consistent in your footwork, be consistent in your hand placement and try a little harder to finish a little bit more.”

Warhop has been an NFL offensive line coach since 1996, and the Ravens are his ninth NFL team. He’s doing what he loves to do, even though he never planned on joining the Ravens staff this season.

It’s a common situation, and players and coaches think about D’Alessandris every day. Warhop’s experience serves him well, facing an offensive line that’s dealing with high expectations, football and grief all at once.

“You have to get the players ready to play, and the main thing is to win games,” Warhop said. “I think to have a chance to win games, we have to be exceptional on offense.

“For anyone who has been through death – I’ve been through it in my family – everyone grieves differently. You just have to be there for them when they’re grieving.”

Rosengarten was impressed with Warhop’s approach and understands why Harbaugh contacted Warhop.

“Coach Hop has put his own spin on things,” Rosengarten said. “It’s been a smooth transition, but not an easy one. He’s done a good job.”