Defensive End:
Yes, the Ravens possess plenty of quality defensive linemen, but none of them can provide a dominant pass rush to complete this defense. Guys like Brandon Williams and Michael Pierce are tremendous run-stuffers and gap-eaters, they provide little-to-no help in the pass rushing department. Willie Henry is too often injured to be relied upon, and no one else has found a way to standout. Naturally, we should turn towards the draft to fix this issue.
The 2019 NFL Draft’s claim to fame is its incredible depth at edge rusher and defensive linemen. Ohio State’s Nick Bosa and the University of Houston’s Ed Oliver headline the class, but both should be taken within the top two-to-three picks, leaving Baltimore (more than likely) out of contention for the two.
That’s not a problem, however, thanks to the aforementioned depth at the position. Baltimore may be out of play for Oliver, but guys like Raekwon Davis from Alabama and Boston College’s Zach Allen are both capable of being day one starters. Davis is a freak on the Crimson Tide’s defensive line and Allen is an incredibly smart and productive player for the Eagles. If all else fails, Dre’Mont Jones of Ohio State is made in the mold of defensive linemen the Ravens tend to favor, but can provide the pass rush the team so desperately needs.
The 2018 Baltimore Ravens squad is certainly talented and could earn a playoff spot, but they aren’t without their flaws. The three positions we just highlighted could help to take the Ravens to the next level, and there’s still plenty of time to continue scouting and fill team needs. Until then, it’s never too early to look ahead of time, and the 2019 NFL Draft is looking better and better with every passing day.