While all the focus in Charm City is centered around the Baltimore Ravens’ selection at No. 14, the draft is always won in the deeper rounds. The Ravens will look to use those rounds to craft a strong roster. They always build well through the draft, and 2026 will be no different.
One spot that Baltimore could look to fill in the later stages is wide receiver. There aren’t too many other wideouts who’d address their need for size opposite Zay Flowers early; however, they might have the perfect prospect to target later on.
De’Zhaun Stribling (Ole Miss) could be a steal, but recently, he’s gotten buzz that could push him up boards. Pankti Parmar, Ole Hotty Toddy’s site expert, highlighted his leadership skills as a clear separator, and NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah noted Stribling is surging up boards. The Ravens could have difficulties getting him in the right spot.
Baltimore Ravens’ potential sleeper target may not be a sleeper anymore
Early on in the draft process, it looked like the Ravens would add size to their wide receiver room in the form of Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State). Unfortunately, he’s risen back up boards after an encouraging showcase in a recent workout. The New York Giants seem like a prime candidate to take him before Baltimore even gets the chance.
Initially, if Baltimore wanted to draft Stribling, it seemed like he was on pace to be a late third-round or early fourth-round pick. He ranks 91st on the consensus big board. However, it seems he’s getting vaulted up to the second round, according to recent buzz. NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein gave Stribling a Round 2 grade in his scouting report.
Round 2 might be too rich for the Ravens. Although that could be the area that they target a wideout, they could deem it a bit of an overdraft. General manager Eric DeCosta and the company draft for need, but they also pair that with getting the best bang for their buck. If other prospects like Denzel Boston (Washington), Germie Bernard (Alabama), or Chris Bell (Louisville) are available, all of whom consensus is higher on, then Baltimore could find themselves missing out on Stribling.
Ultimately, Stribling would definitely fit into the Ravens’ offense. His 6-foot-2 frame, matched with good speed, makes him a tempting prospect, but a lack of route separation and inconsistency through contact could prevent teams from going all-in on him. If he goes early, like people are suggesting, he may not land in Charm City.
