As we inch closer to the NFL Draft, the way teams may approach their selections becomes ever so clear. While there’s a ton of smoke in the draft’s rumor mill every year, team needs, interviews, and draft meetings pull back the curtain of how front offices view this year’s prospects.
For the Baltimore Ravens, news is rarely leaked, and it’s one of the most complex organizations to mock for, but with the current landscape of the roster and free agency signings, we can see where the most significant needs lie.
So, what could a four-round mock draft for Baltimore look like? Let's find out.
Ravens 4-round mock draft after first week of free agency
For the second year in a row, the Ravens could select a corner with their top pick in the draft. Coming out of free agency, the most crucial need is cornerback, and Revel can fill the starting spot on the outside opposite of Nate Wiggins right away.
The 22-year-old immediately adds another athlete to the secondary room. He possesses elite length and speed with the ability to force tight window throws, while also showcasing a high IQ through his route recognition. He isn't without his faults. Revel is coming off an ACL tear, and his technique in coverage is still raw, making this a riskier pick in what could be a potential trade-back spot.
Tuimoloau offers a gift of immense physicality on the edge that the Ravens desperately need. While Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh combined for 22.5 sacks, Tuimoloau possesses heavy hands and a strong anchor that should play off both well. He can quickly penetrate the pocket with his bull rush and is a great athlete with a high school basketball background.
While Tuimoloau is not the most technically sound, this is terrific value at 59, and the fit would give him time to sit back and develop while Van Noy and Oweh continue to wreak havoc.
Milum can immediately kick inside to guard and replace Patrick Mekari, who signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars during free agency. Like Mekari, the West Virginia product has tackle/guard versatility, with experience as the starting left tackle for the Mountaineers.
Milum is a strong offensive line prospect who can throw defenders around like rag dolls. He acts as a brick wall at times, stopping pass rushers with ease and sealing lanes in the run game. He also possesses some well-developed hands that come with accuracy. Milum is not an athlete by any stretch of the imagination, but as a guy who could be blocking up front for Derrick Henry, his ability to dominate the trenches could make him the perfect match.
The Ravens addressed their need for a big-body wide receiver by signing DeAndre Hopkins. However, that was only a one-year deal, and the team could still use more size at the position. Horton fills this need. The 22-year-old was on his way to another dominant season for the Rams, but a knee injury cut that dream short.
At 6-foot-2, Horton is a good athlete who’s smooth through his routes. He’s got gifted hands and can win contested catches with outstanding body control. While dominant at the college ranks, there were times when he was outdone by more physical defenders. He’ll need to add on some muscle to reach his full potential at the next level, but he's a great pick here.
After losing Chris Board (New York Giants) and Malik Harrison’s (Pittsburgh Steelers), the need for a linebacker has become crucial. While the recently signed Jake Hummel can contribute immediately on special teams, the linebacker spot next to Roquan Smith remains open. Trenton Simpson seems poised to be back in the rotation, but Simon would add some competition and, at the very least, much-needed depth.
Simon’s leadership was on full display during the College Football Playoff, proving to be a big-time playmaker for the Buckeyes. He’s a do-it-all linebacker who has a high IQ. While he’s not the most agile in space and has shorter arms, his processing speed makes up for it.
Simon could be viewed as a reach at 136, but linebacker depth in this class is weak, and general manager Eric DeCosta could choose to beat other teams to the punch here.