The 2016 NFL Draft is fastly approaching. The Ravens have two major areas of need. They need a big play wide receiver and they need a dangerous defensive back. In the dream scenario the Ravens could take care of both needs on the first night of the draft.
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In this perfect world scenario, the Ravens draft Jalen Ramsey with the sixth overall pick. They then trade back into the first round to draft Josh Doctson. With a little luck and practical aggressiveness, the Ravens can get two superstars in the first round.
Ramsey is one of the most hyped defensive backs coming out of the draft in some time. A big reason for that is his versatility to play cornerback and safety. The Ravens could use help at either position. The Ravens would draft Ramsey hoping that his addition would not only stabilize the secondary but also to get the Ravens back to striking fear in quarterbacks. The Ravens lack of turnovers was a real problem in 2015.
What Ramsey brings to the table is a perfect mix of athletic skill, great coverage technique and ball skills. With Ramsey opposite Jimmy Smith, the Ravens could be much more aggressive on defense. With two very talented cornerbacks shutting down business on the outside, the front seven can focus more on rushing the passer. The Ravens secondary has hindered the creativity of Dean Pees in recent years.
Doctson is one of the best receivers in this draft. In my book he is worthy of an early pick, yet his draft stock remains a mystery. Because he does not have insane break away speed he is being undervalued. Doctson could be taken anywhere from the middle of the first round, to the second round. If at the 20th pick Doctson is available the Ravens should trade up.
Doctson is a big and physical receiver that has an Anquan Boldin skill-set. He is the perfect receiver for Joe Flacco. Doctson can go up and get just about any pass that comes his way. Flacco would trust his new receiver and give him the chance to make big plays down the field.
Doctson has the ability to make big plays even when the defense knows its coming. That was on display when his 18 catch performance helped TCU beat Texas Tech. No that is not a typo, Doctson had a 18 reception game. TCU really leaned on his play making ability.
The Ravens are not far from being a contending team once again. The Ravens have won before and they know they can win again. Getting a superstar cornerback and an electrifying wide receiver is an achievable proposition.
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This is just one possible path the Ravens could go in the NFL Draft. Obviously not every factor is controlled by the Ravens. If Doctson’s draft stock rises, this plan is doomed. This scenario though is possible and it would take care of the Ravens two biggest needs.