2017 NFL Draft: Baltimore Ravens final grade
How did the Baltimore Ravens do at the 2017 NFL Draft? Here’s a grade for each of their picks.
The Baltimore Ravens came into the 2017 NFL Draft needing to add talent on both offense and defense. General manager Ozzie Newsome certainly did that. He’s upgraded both the offense and defense. Each of his picks makes logical sense.
Though he was unable to get a receiver, the Ravens added a ton of talent and should be better set for the future. Baltimore selected Marlon Humphrey, Tyus Bowers, Chris Wormley, Tim Williams, Nico Siragusa, Jermaine Eluemunor and Chuck Clark. Here’s a look at the grade for each of their picks.
Marlon Humphrey
Cornerback, Alabama
The Baltimore Ravens were hoping one of the top three receivers would fall to them in the middle of the round. However, Corey Davis, Mike Williams and John Ross each went in the top 10. Derek Barnett went just before them to the Philadelphia Eagles. This put them in an awkward position. They either could have reached for a tackle or receiver, or they could draft the best player available. Baltimore went with the former.
They’ve upgraded their secondary a lot this offseason, so drafting Marlon Humphrey shouldn’t be a surprise. With him, Baltimore’s secondary looks much better on paper than last season, even without Jimmy Smith. Jonathan Allen’s shoulder issues likely cost him a chance to play for the Ravens.
Grade: B+. Fans might have wanted Newsome to make more of a “win now” pick, but other than Allen, who was out there? For what it’s worth, Baltimore tried to trade up to presumably take Barnett. Ozzie could have reached for a flawed tackle or a second round caliber receiver. He wisely played it safe with Humphrey. His physical style should make him a nice fit in Baltimore’s system.