Baltimore Ravens receive excellent return value for Hayden Hurst

The Baltimore Ravens traded away tight end Hayden Hurst to the Atlanta Falcons and got back some ridiculously good value in return.

When the Baltimore Ravens drafted Hayden Hurst in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft it was thought that he would be the franchise’s cornerstone at the tight end spot for the foreseeable future. However, the team also drafted Mark Andrews in the same draft and he would become that cornerstone tight end for Baltimore. Hurst was still a very important piece to the Ravens offense, but he wasn’t going to get the opportunity to shine in Charm City.

Because of this, Hayden Hurst became expendable and on Monday, March 16th he was traded to the Atlanta Falcons, along with a 2020 fourth-round pick, for 2020 second and fifth-round selections.

More from Ebony Bird

• Will Baltimore Ravens be rewarded for risky Lamar Jackson decision?
• The Baltimore Ravens Big Gamble
• Ravens Super Bowl odds present fascinating insight on Lamar Jackson’s future
• Should Baltimore Ravens be interested in this recently released WR
• Do the Baltimore Ravens have serious interest in this free agent wide out?

The move is great for both sides. The Falcons lost Pro Bowler Austin Hooper in Free Agency to the Cleveland Browns and replace him with a high-upside, athletic, and well-rounded tight end in Hayden Hurst. It wouldn’t shock anyone to see Hurst flourish with his new team.

Hurst will get the opportunity to not only be the team’s TE1 but also to play with a former MVP quarterback in Matt Ryan and have arguably the best wide receiver in football lined up opposite him. Hurst will have plenty of opportunities to shine.

For the Ravens, the team dealt their third-string tight end and received the 55th and 157th overall picks. Sure, the team sent the 143rd overall pick with Hayden Hurst, but the difference is just 14 picks for the two day three choices exchanged.

Baltimore has the tight end depth to move on from Hurst. Obviously, Mark Andrews will remain the team’s TE1, but behind him is Nick Boyle and fullback/defensive tackle Patrick Ricard can likely play an in-line right end role when needed.

Overall, this trade is a great deal for both the Baltimore Ravens and Atlanta Falcons. It’s tough to see Hayden Hurst go considering his value to the tight end group and everything he gave as a player and a man, but we’re happy he’ll have a chance to show off what made him a first-round pick. Best of luck, “Ginger Thor!” Ravens Flock will always love you!