2017 NFL Draft: Baltimore Ravens 7-round mock
The Baltimore Ravens 2017 NFL Draft could define the franchise for years to come. Here’s a full seven-round mock draft for them.
Entering the 2017 NFL offseason, the Baltimore Ravens are at a crossroad. Their core is beginning to show its age. Moreover, the Ravens have failed to make the postseason in three of the four seasons since winning their second Super Bowl.
Lately, Baltimore hasn’t done too well in the NFL Draft. They need to get back to their roots and build through the draft. This will allow them to potentially save money for their big needs in free agency. In the 2017 NFL Draft, the Ravens have eight picks. Thanks to Kelechi Osemele signing with the Oakland Raiders, Baltimore has an extra third round pick due to compensation.
Traditionally, the Ravens have done well in the later rounds and with undrafted free agents. But they haven’t nailed their early picks. This is something that has to change this year or there could be some job vacancies after the 2017 season. Here’s a full seven-round mock draft for the Baltimore Ravens.
Derek Barnett
Edge/Defensive End, University of Tennessee
Baltimore’s biggest need is their pass rush. Yes, the Ravens must address their secondary. But a lot of their issues can be traced back to a mediocre pass rush. If Baltimore improves in that area, their secondary looks a lot better. This is a draft full of game changing pass rushers. Thanks to off the field issues, Tim Williams isn’t a realistic option. That’s fine because Derek Barnett is an even better option.
It’s questionable where he will play. Is a defensive end or is he an edge rusher? With Barnett, it shouldn’t matter. He can get after the quarterback and wreck havoc in the backfield. The Ravens can worry about where they play him later. Right now, get the best pass rusher.