2024 AFC North Draft Grades: Ravens, Steelers earn high marks

The Baltimore Ravens have the misfortune of trying to compete for a championship in what is often regarded as the toughest division in the NFL. The AFC North's quality made it even more important for Eric DeCosta and the Ravens to nail it in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Ravens once again did a fantastic job of marrying the two warring factions of drafting for need and drafting the best player available. With Clemson CB Nate Wiggins, Washington OT Roger Rosengarten, and Penn State DE Adisa Isaac being picked in the first three rounds, DeCosta picked up multiple future starters.

Unfortunately for the Ravens, the rest of their division managed to draft strongly as well. When looking back at the Draft, it becomes clear that Baltimore still managed to draft as well as anyone despite serious competition from inside the division.

2024 NFL Draft Grades: Ravens, AFC North make out well

Baltimore Ravens: A-

The Ravens came into this draft knowing they needed to bring in another star defensive back, find a new right tackle, and more downfield playmakers at wide receiver. By drafting Wiggins in the first round, Rosengarten in the second, and Devontez Walker in the fourth, Eric DeCosta checked both those boxes.

Baltimore has a habit of finding great value in the middle rounds of the draft, as the speedy Isaac was expected by many to be off the board earlier and fourth-round cornerback TJ Tampa was one of the biggest steals of the draft at any position. Everything seems to be lining up for yet another deep class.

Pittsburgh Steelers: A-

The Steelers are trying to build an ironclad offensive line for Russell Wilson, as three of their top four picks were spent on tackle Troy Fautanu, center Zach Frazier, and guard Mason McCormick. Stealing wide receiver Roman Wilson in the third round gave Pittsburgh plenty of tools to work with on offense.

Cincinnati Bengals: B+

The Bengals addressed their three biggest needs, landing an offensive tackle, defensive tackle, and wide receiver in the first three rounds via Amarius Mims, Kris Jenkins, and Jermaine Burton, respectively. Cincy is gambling on two of these picks, as Mims has minimal starting experience, and Burton has serious character concerns.

Cleveland Browns: C+

While it's hard for the Browns to get a great grade without a first-round pick, Cleveland waited until the sixth round to address their need at linebacker and failed to land an offensive tackle. Second-round DT Michael Hall Jr. is talented, but very undersized. Guard Zak Zinter is coming off a serious season-ending injury and will likely start as a backup.