NFL analyst suggests the Ravens could draft a first-round quarterback

The Baltimore Ravens have a number of important needs to address in the 2022 NFL Draft, although most would agree that quarterback is not one of them. The key word in that sentence, however, is ‘most.’

Conor Orr of Sports Illustrated recently took a look at the biggest draft needs for every NFL team, and for the Ravens, he listed quarterback among the team’s primary positions that must be addressed.

Orr listed quarterback alongside other significant needs such as cornerback, the defensive line, edge rusher, and the offensive line. However, it’s clear that one position doesn’t really belong on that list.

Orr’s rationale was rather simple. Given Lamar Jackson’s uncertain contract situation, Orr believes that it’s at least feasible that the Ravens could consider drafting a quarterback early, perhaps even in the first round.

"“As Lamar Jackson approaches the final season of his rookie contract without an extension offer in hand, the Ravens must be prepared for the worst-case scenario. All sides are telling us to remain calm right now, but there are so many ways this entire situation could get dicey.Jackson could get hurt. The Ravens could play poorly. Jackson could get a bad taste in his mouth negotiating for himself. The list goes on. The Ravens punished the NFL by getting a QB no one thought could succeed late in the first round a few years ago. Could they try to do it again to guard themselves from disaster?”"

The Ravens aren’t looking to move on from Lamar Jackson

First things first, let’s get something straight. The Ravens aren’t drafting a quarterback in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, and it seems very unlikely they draft one at any point.

In fact, head coach John Harbaugh has already outright proclaimed that the Ravens will not be drafting a quarterback in the first round. Given how tight-lipped the organization is, it’s rare to see them speak in definitives with anything.

That just goes to show how silly it is to suggest they could be exploring the QB market in the draft.

Despite Jackson’s tricky contract situation, neither side has any intention of exploring other options. The Ravens want Lamar Jackson to be their quarterback for the foreseeable future and Jackson wants to remain in Baltimore for the rest of his career.

With both sides sharing the same mentality, it’s hard to imagine a scenario where Jackson doesn’t eventually re-sign with the Ravens.

The Ravens aren’t going to draft a first-round quarterback. With Tyler Huntley on the roster, it’s highly unlikely they even look to add a young backup.

Instead, they’ll use their draft capital on actual positions of need. You can bank on that.