Ravens add a dynamic running back in 2023 mock draft

It’s far too early to be thinking about the 2023 mock draft for the Baltimore Ravens, but some NFL pundits are putting out feelers anyway.

The Ravens already boast an impressive running back room with J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards along with special teamer Justice Hill — those players will likely stay with the team in 2023 and beyond.

The team could nonetheless improve their game on the ground by taking one of the top prospects in 2023: Alabama’s Jahmyr Gibbs.

CBS Sports’ Josh Edwards put forth his 2023 mock draft and had the Ravens taking Gibbs in the first round with the 25th pick:

"Is Gibbs the type of running back Baltimore wants for its scheme? The Ravens line up in shotgun on 86.6% of offensive players. Alabama was in shotgun on 98.9% of offensive plays. Gibbs is an explosive player who has to be respected as both a runner and a receiver."

Ravens draft Alabama RB Jahmyr Gibbs in 2023 mock draft

In actuality, the odds of the Ravens — or any NFL team — taking a running back as early as the first round probably won’t happen. Baltimore has several other areas of concern on its roster at the moment, and even if the team was going to spend a top pick on an offensive skill position, it would be on a wide receiver.

In terms of the best value, though, Gibbs is ranked as the top player at his position and has enjoyed a very productive 2022 season: the dual-threat posted a team-high 850 rushing yards and seven touchdowns along with 42 catches for 378 yards and three touchdowns.

The Ravens’ offensive line, assuming the starters like Ben Powers get re-signed, should be able to usher in a strong rushing game next season, and Gibbs would theoretically fit in Baltimore’s run-heavy offensive scheme; however, the Ravens simply don’t need another running back as long as Dobbins and Edwards stay healthy.

We’d like to see the Ravens focus on other positional areas when next April rolls around.