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Ozzie Newsome: Grading Every Ravens Draft Class

By Chris Schisler

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Dec 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith (82) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith (82) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Browns at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

2011 NFL Draft:

Draft Grade A-

Ravens Selections

  1. Round 1: Jimmy Smith, CB (Colorado) 27th Overall Pick
  2. Round 2: Torrey Smith, WR (Maryland) 58th Overall Pick
  3. Round 3: Jah Reid, OT (UCF) 85th Overall Pick
  4. Round 4: Tandon Doss, WR (Indiana) 123rd Overall Pick
  5. Round 5: Chykie Brown, CB (Texas) 164th Overall Pick
  6. Round 5: Pernell McPhee, DE (Miss St.) 165th Overall Pick
  7. Round 6: Tyrod Taylor, QB (VT) 180th Overall Pick
  8. Round 7: Anthony Allen, RB (GT) 255th Overall Pick

Okay the Ravens had three misses in the middle rounds but this was an important draft class. Jimmy Smith became a very good cornerback. Torrey Smith has some of the most memorable plays in Ravens history, like his game winning touchdown against the Steelers in 2011. Pernell McPhee was a stud who earned a big contract in free agency with the Bears. Tyrod Taylor was a cheap backup for Joe Flacco who is now the Buffalo Bills starter. There was obviously a ton of talent there.

The Ravens have to get some credit for their patience in this draft. It was no secret that the Ravens coveted Jimmy Smith, The Eagles were expected to take the Colorado cornerback. The Ravens waited a long time but their man was there when they were on the clock. Torrey Smith was being mock drafted to the Ravens in the first round. Getting him in the second round was tremendous value. It was also a rare hit for the Ravens at the wide receiver position.

Next: 2012 NFL Draft

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