The NFL Draft is a mere 84 days away, and the Baltimore Ravens will be looking to build upon their impressive 2018 campaign with another strong draft class. While a lot can change in terms of draft stock with the 2019 NFL Scouting Combine upcoming, below is a seven-round mock draft.
Round 1, pick 22: WR D.K. Metcalf, Ole Miss
It may not be the most conceivable thing that the number wide receiver in the draft would fall to the 22nd pick in the draft. However, crazier things have happened in the draft. Last year, it was almost unthinkable that Derwin James would be available at the 16th overall pick. Regardless, the Ravens need to find a suitable ‘X’ receiver. With Michael Crabtree’s disappointing play and John Brown’s potential departure, Baltimore is in dire need of a receiver who can create separation, consistently catch the ball and make plays. Metcalf is the best wide receiver in the class with an impressive 6-foot-3, 225-pound frame. He has shown the ability to beat press coverage, and his route-running is smooth with excellent on-field awareness. Metcalf would be a slam-dunk pick if he is available.
Round 3, pick 85: OL Chris Lindstrom, Boston College
Another need for the Ravens is along the interior of the offensive line. With Matt Skura, Alex Lewis, and James Hurst all struggling immensely last season, Baltimore needs to upgrade at both center and guard. While they do have Bradley Bozeman as a reserve, who did flash at times last season, left guard and center must be a top priority in the draft. Lindstrom is a versatile interior offensive lineman and would be a great fit in Baltimore’s power scheme.
Round 3, pick 102: RB Darrell Henderson, Memphis
Running back is a position of need for the Ravens, and while taking a running back this early may be questionable, Henderson is worth the price of admission. His stats at Memphis are extremely enticing, and his tape is even better. Henderson is a home-run threat with a great contact balance and vision. Pairing him with Gus Edwards and Kenneth Dixon would bode well for Baltimore in having three running backs with different styles.
Round 4, pick 124: WR Jakobi Meyers, N.C. State
The Ravens utilize a strategy of best player available, and even though safety and edge were both positions of need, Meyers was the best player on the board. Meyers would be a nice complementary receiver to Metcalf and Willie Snead as he impressed at the Senior Bowl with his fundamental route running and consistent hands. At 6-foot-2 and 203 pounds, Meyers could be another reliable receiver for Baltimore.
Round 5, pick 161: Edge Jordan Brailford, Oklahoma State
While going all offense for the first four picks may not have been ideal, the value made sense to stick with best player available given some of the defensive talent still on board. With a run on edge defenders between picks 124 and 160, Brailford was the best player on the board. Edge could be a pressing need for the Ravens as Za’Darius Smith and Terrell Suggs could be on their way out. Brailford is a relatively raw pass-rusher with some upside. He had an impressive performance at the East-West Shrine game, and he displayed a couple of key traits as well as checking boxes in regards to measurements.
Round 6, pick 193: OT Chuma Edoga, USC
Offensive tackle is far from a dire need with Orlando Brown Jr. and Ronnie Stanley at right and left tackle respectively. However, the depth behind both players is not ideal, and Edoga is a perfect prospect to serve as a reserve in years one and two before seeing the field in year three. Edoga has the mobility and lateral movement necessary to play in the NFL.
Round 6, pick 196: LB Terrill Hanks, New Mexico State
Hanks is an athletic linebacker, who possesses excellent coverage ability. With C.J. Mosley’s inconsistencies in coverage and potential departure, the Ravens need to have a backup plan just in case. While Patrick Onwuasor is an intriguing option to take over as the ‘Mike’ linebacker, his issues in coverage could be a concern. Baltimore did draft Kenny Young last year, but he is still a project despite flashing at times. Although Hanks will not be an instant starter, he could provide quality depth at linebacker with enough upside to warrant this selection. However, it would be a surprise if Hanks was still available this late in the draft.
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