The holes in the Baltimore Ravens' roster are being plugged quickly. Backup quarterback was a legitimate concern until it wasn't. Welcome back, Tyler Huntley. While backup QB was a major hole that needed to be addressed, the Ravens still have a few concerning weaknesses.
The offensive line will be a concern this season. The Ravens unfortunately lack a true left tackle to protect Lamar Jackson's blindside. Last season, they could rely on the monstrous 6-foot-6 Morgan Moses to move men and protect Jackson. However, this season it's unclear if Ronnie Stanley can step in and produce similarly.
Suffice it to say, the Ravens need offensive line help. It's no wonder many 'Way-Too-Early' mock drafts have the Ravens selecting an offensive tackle in the first round. More of the same from Sayre Bedinger of NFL Spin Zone so let's dissect the selections for Ravens Flock Nation!
Ravens select Aireontae Ersery, OT (Minnesota) with the 29th pick in the first round
With the 29th pick the Ravens select their offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery out of Minnesota. It's no surprise the pick is an offensive lineman, they need them. Ersery is an interesting selection for the Ravens. While there are more talented pass-protecting linemen out there, his run-blocking is second-to-none.
He has impressive physical abilities and is progressing well, especially in power-running schemes. Ersery is a big 6-foot-6 tackle who could start his NFL career on the right side of the line. Ideally, the physical and athletic tackle makes his way over to the left, becoming an elite blindside blocker.
His natural athleticism and size make him a strong contender to eventually become a key starter on the offensive line. Ersery would be a great selection for the Ravens.
Ravens select Jabbar Muhammad, CB (Oregon) with the 61st pick in the second round
This pick is a bit more head-scratching. While there's no denying Jabbar Muhammad has great coverage talent, his game doesn't really scream, "Ravens football."
Muhammad is a 5-foot-10 cornerback who thrives in zone-coverage schemes. He's versatile and can play both inside and out. He's instinctive, technically sound, and smart. He is a good cornerback. However, the Ravens just drafted Nate Wiggins out of Clemson with the 30th pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL draft. They also have Marlon Humphrey on the team too.
When examining Muhammad more closely, it's evident that he's not particularly quick or fast. While these are not desirable attributes, his most glaring weakness is his reluctance to get involved in the run game. It's this hesitation that is the most concerning. The Ravens' defense depends on physicality and prioritizes the team over individual players. While Muhammad is a solid pick, he just doesn't seem like the perfect pick here.
A wide receiver could be a great pick here. Tre Harris of Ole Miss or Nic Anderson of Oklahoma would be perfect physical outside receivers.