Ravens' name Jovaughn Gwyn starting center for Week 1

Jovaughn Gwyn will start at center against Indianapolis, although Jesse Minter called it a Week 1 decision The Baltimore Ravens have settled one of their biggest Week 1 questions. Head coach Jesse Minter announced Monday that Jovaughn Gwyn will start at center when Baltimore opens the regular season Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts. Minter clarified that the choice does not necessarily settle the position for the entire season, calling it a 'Week 1 decision, not a permanent decision.' Gwyn emerged from a competition that continued throughout training camp and the preseason. Ethan Pocic remains in the picture, but he is still working his way back from an Achilles injury. Baltimore's confidence in Gwyn is rooted partly in his familiarity with offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford and elements of the Ravens' blocking system. 'He came in with a lot of experience with Coach Ledford and some things schematically that carry over,' Minter said. The Ravens entered the offseason needing to replace Tyler Linderbaum, and the competition at center became one of the roster's most closely watched position battles. Gwyn will now receive the first opportunity to establish himself in a regular-season game. His opening assignment will not be easy. Indianapolis features a talented defensive front led by veteran defensive tackle DeForest Buckner, who can collapse the pocket and disrupt rushing lanes from the interior. Gwyn will be responsible for helping set protections, communicating with guards, and providing a clean interior pocket for Lamar Jackson. He will also play a central role in creating running lanes for Derrick Henry. Baltimore has left open the possibility of reevaluating the position, particularly as Pocic gets healthier. For now, the Ravens believe Gwyn is their best option to begin the season, and Sunday will be his first chance to strengthen his hold on the job.