The Baltimore Ravens aren’t usually loud about their draft plans. But that doesn't mean they don't exactly whisper either. Especially when a pre-draft visitor has “starter insurance” written all over him.
On Monday, Baltimore hosted Georgia linebacker Smael Mondon for a Top 30 visit, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. It might not be the most well-known name on the visit list, but it’s a move that says a lot more than it seems. Especially if you’re third-year linebacker Trenton Simpson.
Baltimore has 11 picks in this year’s draft, no glaring roster holes, and a strong defensive identity built around All-Pro Roquan Smith. But one thing is becoming clearer by the week: they aren’t sold on the linebacker spot next to him. And Mondon fits the mold of a player they could have serious interest in.
Georgia LB Smael Mondon visits Baltimore ahead of 2025 NFL Draft
Mondon is a classic Ravens-style linebacker. Fast. Physical. Smart. He played 51 games at Georgia and racked up 213 total tackles, 17.5 TFLs, and three sacks in 2024 alone—despite being banged up for most of the year. He was a key cog in two national title defenses, and when healthy, he looked every bit like a future three-down NFL linebacker.
Scouts see a lot to like. Mondon pursues with leverage, brings legit pop when taking on blocks, and doesn’t whiff in space. He’s a proven blitzer, offers special teams value, and shows flashes in both man and zone coverage. What he lacks in instincts, he makes up for in athleticism and effort. He has ideal size for the position at 6-foot-3, 235 pounds. And if the medicals check out, he’s going to play a lot of football on Sundays.
Which brings us to Simpson.
The 2023 third-round pick has all the traits Baltimore loves. But traits haven’t turned into production yet. With Malik Harrison now in Pittsburgh and Chris Board off to New York, Simpson is supposed to step in as the guy next to Roquan. So far? He hasn’t taken that step. And if Baltimore is bringing in players like Mondon and UCLA’s Carson Schwesinger for closer looks, it could spell doom for Simpson.
The defense is built around Smith. He’s the centerpiece. But Baltimore needs someone who can run with backs, tackle in space, and help unlock his full range. Right now, that job is up for grabs.
Mondon might not be a first-round target, but if he’s still there on Day 2 or Day 3, don’t be surprised if Baltimore takes a flier on the former Bulldog. The Ravens have the capital. And they clearly have the interest. Simpson’s window isn’t shut—but it’s not wide open either. The heist is on.