2023 NFL Draft: Analyzing Baltimore Ravens Picks
The Baltimore Ravens made some exciting moves during the 2023 NFL draft in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. Here is a comprehensive analysis of the Ravens’ draft picks and an updated depth chart.
The Baltimore Ravens made some exciting moves during the 2023 NFL draft in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. Here is a comprehensive analysis of the Ravens’ draft picks and an updated depth chart.
Round 1, No. 22 overall: Zay Flowers
My take: The Ravens’ first-round pick, Zay Flowers, adds exceptional talent to Lamar Jackson’s receiving corps.
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With Flowers joining Odell Beckham Jr., Rashod Bateman, and Nelson Agholor, the Ravens have transformed their broad receiver group into one of the most improved units in the league.
Flowers is expected to make an immediate impact, particularly in the slot, where the Ravens struggled last season.
As Beckham and Agholor are on one-year deals, Flowers will likely assume an even more significant role.
Key stat: Flowers averaged an impressive 42.9 yards after the catch per game last season, ranking third among players in Power 5 conferences.
This explosiveness will be a valuable asset to the Ravens’ passing attack, lacking such playmaking ability in recent years.
What we hear about Flowers: Raven’s general manager Eric DeCosta expressed his confidence in the selection, highlighting the endorsement from former Ravens receiver Steve Smith.
The unanimous positive feedback from the team’s management and coaching staff suggests that Flowers has the potential to make a significant impact.
Round 3, No. 86 overall: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson
My take: The Ravens made a strong choice in selecting Trenton Simpson in the third round.
Simpson, regarded as the top-ranked inside linebacker by Mel Kiper, brings versatility and disruption to the Ravens’ defense.
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Whether he fills a starting spot at weak-side linebacker or competes for an outside linebacker position, Simpson has shown tremendous ability on passing downs.
His performance at Clemson showcased his effectiveness in pressuring quarterbacks and providing coverage.
Key stat: Simpson’s versatility is evident from his college career, having played significant snaps at inside linebacker, outside linebacker, and cornerback.
His selection suggests the Ravens are preparing for potential changes at the linebacker position, with Patrick Queen acknowledging the arrival of his likely successor.
Round 4, No. 124 overall: Tavius Robinson, OLB, Mississippi
My take: The Ravens continue to invest in their outside linebacker position by selecting Tavius Robinson in the fourth round.
Robinson’s addition addresses the need for youthful talent as the team looks to fill the void left by veterans Justin Houston and Jason Pierre-Paul.
Robinson’s breakout season at Mississippi, with seven sacks and five forced fumbles, demonstrates his potential as an impactful pass-rusher.
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Round 5, No. 157 overall: Kyu Blu Kelly, CB, Stanford
My take: In the fifth round, the Ravens focused on addressing their cornerback needs. Kyu Blu Kelly, ranked 17th among cornerbacks by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., provides depth to the secondary.
However, the Ravens will likely pursue a veteran cornerback to secure a starter opposite Marlon Humphrey.
Kelly’s proficiency in press coverage, showcased by his low completion rate allowed in college, highlights his potential to contribute to the team’s defensive efforts.
Round 6, No. 199 overall: Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, OT, Oregon
My take: With their sixth-round pick, the Ravens selected Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu, an offensive tackle who adds depth to their offensive line.
The team has a history of successfully drafting linemen in the later rounds, as seen with Ryan Jensen and Bradley Bozeman.
Aumavae-Laulu’s significant improvement throughout his football career, transitioning from a no-star recruit to a highly regarded prospect, bodes well for his development within the Ravens organization.
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Round 7, No. 229 overall: Andrew Vorhees, G, USC
My take: The Ravens made a value pick in the seventh round by selecting Andrew Vorhees.
Despite his injury, tearing his ACL at the NFL combine, the Ravens showed confidence in his abilities by trading up to acquire him.
Vorhees’ performance before the injury and impressive bench press performance at the combine demonstrate his potential.
Although he may not contribute this season, the Ravens expect him to have a significant impact in 2024 and beyond.
Updated Depth Chart
Now let’s take a look at the Ravens’ updated depth chart, taking into account their recent draft picks and critical acquisitions:
Offense
Quarterback: Lamar Jackson, Trace McSorley
Running Back: J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards, Justice Hill
Wide Receivers: Zay Flowers, Odell Beckham Jr., Rashod Bateman, Nelson Agholor, Devin Duvernay, James Proche
Tight Ends: Mark Andrews, Nick Boyle, Josh Oliver
Defense
Defensive Line: Calais Campbell, Derek Wolfe, Brandon Williams
Outside Linebackers: Odafe Oweh, Trenton Simpson, Tavius Robinson, Jaylon Ferguson
Inside Linebackers: Patrick Queen, Malik Harrison
Cornerbacks: Marlon Humphrey, Kyu Blu Kelly, Anthony Averett
Safeties: Chuck Clark, DeShon Elliott
Special Teams
Kicker: Justin Tucker
Punter: Johnny Townsend
Long Snapper: Morgan Cox
In conclusion, the Baltimore Ravens have significantly added to their roster through the 2023 NFL draft.
The acquisition of talented players like Zay Flowers, Trenton Simpson, and others have bolstered their offense and defense.
With a strong depth chart and a renewed sense of competitiveness, the Ravens look poised to make a mark in the upcoming season.
Keep an eye on these promising draft picks as they strive to contribute to the team’s success.
