The NFL Draft season is quickly approaching, and the Baltimore Ravens are already being linked to several intriguing names in early mock drafts.
One standout suggestion comes from Dane Brugler of The Athletic, who has the Ravens selecting Ohio State offensive lineman Donovan Jackson with the 28th pick.
The Ravens have always built their success from the trenches, and it’s easy to see why. Under Todd Monken, their offense has become a juggernaut, with Lamar Jackson at the helm of one of the league’s most explosive attacks. But if there’s one area that could use a little more staying power, it’s the interior offensive line. Add Ronnie Stanley’s uncertain Baltimore future, and Donovan Jackson feels like the perfect puzzle piece.
Brugler himself calls Jackson the “unsung MVP of Ohio State’s run to the national championship game,” highlighting his ability to step up when his team needed him most. In Baltimore, that kind of reliability would be invaluable.
Donovan Jackson is the perfect pick for the Ravens
The Ravens’ interior offensive line has been a revolving door for a minute. Tyler Linderbaum is a rock at center, but the guard positions have been less consistent. Patrick Mekari, Daniel Faalele, Andrew Vorhees, and Ben Cleveland have all seen time, but none have locked down a starting role.
Jackson could be the answer, offering an immediate upgrade with his combination of size, strength, and technique.
At 6-foot-4 and 320 pounds, Jackson has the build and skill set to thrive in Baltimore’s physical, downhill rushing attack. He’s not just a one-trick pony, either—he’s proven he can handle pass protection at a high level. After starting at left guard for most of his college career, Jackson transitioned to left tackle in 2024 following a key injury for the Buckeyes. His ability to seamlessly switch positions and hold his own speaks volumes about his versatility and football IQ.
Donovan Jackson has been DOMINANT this post season💪 pic.twitter.com/dKBYQUUJaC
— PFF College (@PFF_College) January 14, 2025
And then there’s Ronnie Stanley. The veteran left tackle has been a cornerstone of the Ravens’ offensive line, but he’s set to hit free agency at the end of the season.
If Stanley re-signs, Jackson can slot in at guard and immediately improve the interior. If Stanley leaves, Jackson could step in as his replacement at left tackle. Either way, Jackson gives the Ravens flexibility and stability for years to come.
Brugler also has the Ravens snagging Alabama linebacker Jihaad Campbell in the second round, and while it’s not as eye-popping as the Jackson pick, it makes a ton of sense. With Kyle Van Noy getting up there in years and David Ojabo still struggling to prove he’s the guy, Campbell could step in as a perfect partner for Odafe Oweh and Roquan Smith. His athleticism, versatility, and knack for rushing the passer would make him a strong weapon in Zach Orr’s defense.
Donovan Jackson is everything the Ravens look for in a first-round pick: tough, versatile, and ready to contribute right away. Whether he’s solidifying the interior or stepping in for Stanley down the line, Jackson is a win-win selection. With this pick, Baltimore addresses a key need without overthinking it—and that’s exactly what good teams do.
As for Jihaad Campbell, he’s another solid choice for a team that knows the importance of depth and development. Baltimore’s focus on building from the trenches and adding versatile defenders has been the foundation of their success, and this mock draft reflects that philosophy perfectly.