Baltimore Ravens offensive lineman Ben Cleveland is embroiled in legal turmoil after a drinking-and-driving arrest in Georgia last Wednesday. Authorities reported the 25-year-old’s blood alcohol concentration measured 0.178%—more than double the state’s 0.08% legal limit—following erratic driving near Milledgeville.
A Baldwin County deputy noted Cleveland’s truck “weaving outside its lane” and crossing into oncoming traffic before initiating a traffic stop.
“The vehicle entered the opposite lane of travel, nearly going into the ditch,”the arrest report stated. Cleveland admitted consuming 3-4 beers earlier that evening but claimed none in the prior two hours.
Legal complications compound for the third-round 2021 draft pick, who faces charges of:
- Driving under the influence
- Failure to maintain lane
Notably, Cleveland was wearing a medical boot during the incident due to an ankle injury sustained in the NFL season. He declined portions of field sobriety tests, citing pain.
The Baltimore Ravens organization has yet to publicly address the arrest despite multiple media inquiries. Cleveland’s representatives didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.
Since joining the Ravens, the 343-pound lineman has:
- Played 54 games
- Started 7 contests
- Primarily contributed on special teams in 2023
His career has been hampered by injuries, though Coach John Harbaugh awarded him a game ball last October for a critical blocked field goal against Washington.
Georgia’s strict DUI penalties could result in fines up to $1,000, license suspension, and mandatory substance abuse counseling for a first offense. NFL conduct policy violations typically prompt fines or suspensions, raising questions about Cleveland’s roster status.
As the legal process unfolds, fans and analysts alike speculate whether this incident will derail the former University of Georgia standout’s already tenuous NFL future.
