Baltimore Ravens: 5 takeaways from the 2018 NFL Draft
By Cory Hughes
5. Ravens find right tackle of the future to play opposite of Ronnie Stanley In Orlando Brown Jr
Over the years, Ozzie Newsome has had a knack for finding offensive line talent on days 2-3 of the draft. In 2007 he drafted Marshal Yanda who has gone on to be a six-time pro bowler and a five time All-Pro and one of the teams most consistent players. 2012 he drafted Kelechi Osemele in round two, he went to be the highest paid guard in the NFL at the time when he chose to sign with the Raiders. In 2013 he drafted Ricky Wagner in the fifth round and after four years with the organization, Wagner went on to be the highest paid right tackle in the league. Also, in 2013, he drafted Ryan Jenson, who this offseason went on to be the highest paid center in the NFL signing with the Buccaneers.
Oklahoma’s Orlando Brown Jr. could very well be the next needle in the haystack that Ozzie Newsome has found. Before the combine, Orlando Brown Jr. was slated to go in the first round. After an abysmal combine, he fell drastically on draft boards and in the draft. Right into Ozzie’s lap. The last two seasons Brown was first team All-Big 12. And also won Big 12 lineman of the year in 2016 and 2017. Brown Jr will be a second-generation Raven as his late father, Zeus, Orlando Brown Sr. had two stints with the organization.
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Most people aren’t too thrilled about seeing James Hurst back at right tackle. But with this pick, Brown could very well be the right tackle of the future for Joe Flacco and Lamar Jackson. The Ravens will have quite the wall for whoever is under center. Alex Lewis, Marshal Yanda, Ronnie Stanley and Orlando Brown is quite the line to play behind.