The Baltimore Ravens were recently named as one of seven teams that need to do the most work through the 2025 Draft by Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report.
In just two days, the Ravens have made more waves than in previous years—whether it be all the players they have parted ways with—Michael Pierce, Brandon Stephens, Patrick Mekari, Malik Harrison, Chris Board, Marcus Williams, and Arthur Maulet—or the moves they have made to re-sign contributors like Ronnie Stanley and Patrick Ricard. But the biggest splash came late Tuesday with the addition of veteran DeAndre Hopkins.
The moves to retain Stanley and Ricard and sign Hopkins shore up the offense, aside from the guard spot. The Ravens will likely keep Andrew Vorhees at left guard, but it would be nice to see someone else solidify the right side, maybe a familiar face like Kevin Zeitler.
The defense, however, has a lot more holes. Some guys will have to step up. Second-year safety Beau Brade comes to mind, as the Ravens kept him on the active roster last year after signing him as an undrafted free agent. Cornerback is now a weakness, especially after the departure of two veterans. The same goes for linebacker. Interior defensive line is also a position of need after Michael Pierce’s sudden retirement, though we’re still hoping for a reunion with Calais Campbell.
As for BR’s article, I think it’s fair. They cited Baltimore’s tight salary cap and the fact that the Ravens have only six picks in the first five rounds and don’t pick until 27th overall. But I also think they made the list because the Ravens consistently nail the draft year after year. And as far as concerns over Baltimore drafting at 27th? Here’s a stat for you—aside from Kyle Hamilton (14) and Ronnie Stanley (6), no current Ravens starter was drafted before pick 22 (Zay Flowers).
That speaks volumes about the effectiveness of general manager Eric DeCosta, the front office, and the entire scouting team. This isn’t unfamiliar territory for them.
It’s important to nail this draft, just as it is for every team. But the Ravens are in a unique spot with the roster they have now. And given the limitations, I have no doubt DeCosta and company will do exactly what they need to do.