Baltimore Ravens: 5 dark horse candidates for the 16th pick

2. Mike Hughes

Mike Hughes is a player that I have kind of have a draft crush on. Seeing him in purple and black should make you happy, even  if you want another position with the first round pick. Pairing Hughes who is feisty and physical with wide receivers, with Marlon Humphrey would make a long-term duo that dreams are made of.

Almost nobody but me saw the Ravens taking a cornerback last year. I mocked Humphrey to Baltimore in a mock draft and I’m willing to toot my own horn for it. This year cornerback would be a surprise as well. This is supposed to be a year of the offense, but it doesn’t have to be forced. With Jimmy Smith’s injury history and his ongoing recovery, cornerback isn’t totally out in left field.

The Ravens could go with a number of cornerbacks. They could end up with Josh Jackson or Jaire Alexander as well. I wouldn’t rule out Denzel Ward. The reason I highlight Hughes is that he seems to be exactly what the Ravens need. I think he could play the Duane Starks to Humphrey’s Chris McAlister. Hughes had four interceptions last season because he is a smooth athlete who has great instincts. The reason I point to Hughes is that he is a defensive play-maker and the Ravens need as many play-makers as they can get.