The Baltimore Ravens' strong 2024 NFL Draft class was punctuated by the selection of Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins in the first round. The Ravens seemed positively thrilled that he was on the board, wasting no time to run their pick into Roger Goodell on Draft night.
Not only did the Ravens reportedly turn down as many as eight different trades to select Wiggins, but head coach John Harbaugh was reportedly laughing off the idea of drafting Wiggins as a fantasy. Surely there's no way a prospect that talented will make it to No. 30 overall, right?
That dream scenario managed to come true in 2024, as Wiggins slid just enough for Baltimore to snatch him up. While some may have wanted the Ravens to draft an offensive lineman or wide receiver, the behind-the-scenes footage makes it seem like Wiggins was always the top priority.
Footage from the Ravens' draft room, recently released on social media, shows that both DeCosta and Jim Harbaugh were hoping one of the top cornerbacks (i.e. Wiggins) would fall. DeCosta knew Wiggins would be the pick if the Dallas Cowboys selected Oklahoma tackle Tyler Guyton, which they did.
Go inside the Draft Room as the Ravens prepare to pick...
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Baltimore Ravens NFL Draft room shows intense focus on picking Nate Wiggins
While Wiggins became a workout warrior following his 4.28 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, even a brief examination of his film makes it puzzling that there were 29 chances for teams to take him before the Ravens. In terms of pure coverage ability, Wiggins may be the best in his particular class.
Wiggins allowed just one catch of over 20 yards last season, and he did not surrender a touchdown. While he didn't pile up the interceptions, his size and feisty demeanor made him one of the most effective cornerbacks in the country in contested situations.
Wiggins likely fell due to concerns about his weight, as he clocked in at a concerningly thin 173 pounds and 182 pounds at his pro day. Wiggins, who doesn't turn 21 until late August, will likely be able to put on weight after working with a professional nutrition team in his rookie season.
Wiggins will join one of the game's best secondaries, which also includes possible Pro Bowlers like Marlon Humphrey, Kyle Hamilton, and Marcus Williams. DeCosta has always been willing to select the best player available regardless of position, and that philosophy led him to take a toolsy defensive back with unlimited potential that could start right away.