As the NFL offseason rolls on, the Baltimore Ravens' need for a starting cornerback and depth at the position will become even more apparent. This is especially true if general manager Eric DeCosta lets contributors like Brandon Stephens and Tre’Davious White walk in the coming months.
Regardless, Stephens’ struggles prove the team needs a better option to fill the outside corner spot opposite 2024 first-round pick Nate Wiggins. Star corner Marlon Humphrey is also nearing the end of his deal, so the future at the position will need to be addressed in this year’s draft. Here are three corners who could be a solution to that problem.
Three ideal cornerbacks Ravens should target in 2025 NFL Draft
Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina
Revel is an intriguing prospect out of East Carolina, but he comes with his fair share of concerns. On tape, his freakish build stands out—his long arms effortlessly disrupt a receiver’s release and create tight passing windows downfield. He also has excellent burst and speed to keep up with receivers if he gets beat off the line of scrimmage. His size, physicality, and athleticism make him a desirable prospect for any corner-needy team.
The concerns lie in his experience. At ECU, Revel didn’t face much elite competition throughout his college career and saw a limited number of snaps. In 2024, his season was cut short due to an ACL tear, limiting him to just three games. In 2022, he played only nine games and barely saw the field. As a result, Revel is still learning how to play the position. His technique can be unbalanced, showing a lack of body control at times. While he possesses rare traits and intangibles, his lack of experience could lead to him falling into the Ravens' lap.
Darien Porter, Iowa State
Porter is in a similar situation to Revel—another corner with a rare blend of size and athleticism who didn’t see consistent starting time until his sixth season as a Cyclone. He entered college as a wide receiver but transitioned to corner in 2022. This past season, he balled out and quickly climbed draft boards.
The 24-year-old proved to be elite in zone coverage, using his long arms and short-area quickness to break up passes. At 6’4, Porter is expected to light up the NFL Combine with his speed. He thrives against vertical routes, matching receivers stride-for-stride downfield and meeting ball carriers in space in one-on-one situations. This also shows up on quick throws, where Porter can jump routes and create turnovers.
However, his lack of experience shows in his technique. There are moments when he trusts his speed too much, relying on his ability to run with a receiver rather than using his arms to maintain leverage. In the run game, Porter struggles to shed blocks—he can be completely wiped out against runs and screen passes, creating open lanes. While he’s still learning the intricacies of the position, if the Ravens are patient, they could develop another star corner.
Azareye’h Thomas, Florida State
Thomas is one of the biggest risers in the draft process after a huge Senior Bowl. Like the other two corners mentioned, he has the long arms necessary to play on the boundary—just what the Ravens need. He’s a bit more fluid in his transitions and can make quick adjustments at the catch point to break up passes. He’s consistent with his hand usage, redirecting routes and slowing down receivers early and often. Overall, he’s a tough corner to beat, showing a great ability to close on routes and make plays on the ball.
One of the biggest concerns with Thomas is his speed. While his physicality is effective, if he’s beaten off the line, he might not have the long speed to recover against twitchier wideouts. This issue is compounded by his eye discipline. At times, Thomas gets caught looking into the backfield, losing leverage against his matchup. Other times, he turns his back to the quarterback, losing track of the play. However, if he refines his technique, these flaws are fixable. With a lengthy, speedy corner on one boundary, the Ravens could pair Wiggins with a more physical corner on the other side.