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2018 NFL Mock Draft: Quarterbacks reign supreme

By Brad Weiss

October 8, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws against the Colorado Buffaloes during the first half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
October 8, 2016; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Southern California Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) throws against the Colorado Buffaloes during the first half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand (9) warms up before the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand (9) warms up before the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game against the Clemson Tigers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Da'Shawn Hand

DL, Alabama

The Baltimore Ravens knew they had to get better on defense with their picks in the 2017 NFL Draft, and they did just that, spending their first four picks on that side of the ball. In the first round, they picked up Marlon Humphrey from Alabama, who was widely regarded as one of the best cornerbacks in that draft class. They then added two linebackers and a defensive tackle over the next three rounds, vastly improving their defense.

In 2018, the Ravens should look to bring in another defensive lineman, as the versatile Da’Shawn Hand of Alabama will likely be available. Hand has proven to be a pass-rushing specialist during his time at Alabama, and was one of the key components of their vaunted defense the past few seasons. He would give the Ravens an elite front, which should lead to this organization getting back to the top of the AFC North.

Baltimore did bring in Chris Wormely from Michigan with their third-round pick, and he has the same kind of skill set that Hand does. However, Hand is a much better player, and after four years playing for Alabama head coach Nick Saban, he will come into the league ready to contribute immediately. When the Ravens were great, they were led by their defense, and it looks like they are trying to use that same blueprint to get back to the Promised Land.

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