ATLANTA — Baltimore Ravens offensive lineman Ben Cleveland has been charged with drunken driving in Georgia after deputies pulled him over for erratic driving near Milledgeville last Wednesday, according to a sheriff’s report obtained by the Associated Press.
The 6-foot-6, 343-pound lineman, known as “Big Country” from his college days at the University of Georgia, registered a blood alcohol content of 0.178 — more than twice the legal limit in Georgia. Cleveland told deputies he had consumed three to four beers at a local country club but claimed he had not had any alcohol in the two hours before getting behind the wheel.
Incident Details Raise Concerns
Cleveland’s black pickup truck was seen weaving out of its lane, briefly leaving the road before crossing into the opposite lane and nearly going into a ditch, according to the Baldwin County sheriff’s report.
A deputy pulled him over and conducted a field sobriety test, but Cleveland, who was wearing a medical boot at the time, said he was experiencing ankle pain and did not want to complete certain tests that required walking and standing.
Despite his physical condition, officers proceeded with further assessments, leading to the breathalyzer test that confirmed his elevated blood alcohol level.
Legal Ramifications and Team Response
Cleveland was booked on charges of driving under the influence and failure to maintain his lane. Jail records did not list an attorney for him, and the Ravens have yet to issue an official statement. The Associated Press reached out to team representatives but has not received a response.
This arrest puts the Ravens in a difficult position as they navigate offseason decisions. Cleveland, a third-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has struggled with injuries and played mostly on special teams last season. With the team assessing its roster for 2025, this latest legal issue could impact his standing with the organization.
A Promising Career Now Under Scrutiny
Cleveland was a standout at Georgia, earning first-team All-SEC honors in 2020. His physicality and size made him a promising NFL prospect, but injuries have limited his contributions. Since joining the Ravens, he has played in 54 games, starting seven times. However, his role in recent seasons has been diminished.
In a highlight from last October, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh awarded Cleveland a game ball for blocking a 52-yard field goal attempt in a win over Washington. The moment was a rare bright spot in an otherwise injury-plagued career.
What’s Next for Cleveland and the Ravens?
The legal process will now determine Cleveland’s immediate future. If convicted, he could face disciplinary action from both the NFL and the Ravens. The league has a history of suspending players for DUI-related offenses, and the team may decide to move on if it deems the incident a liability.
For now, Cleveland awaits further proceedings while the Ravens weigh their options. Whether this incident marks a turning point or a setback in his career remains to be seen.
