2021 NFL Draft: Baltimore Ravens 7-round mock

Taking Paye in Round 1 does a lot to help reinforce Baltimore’s edge-rushing options, but it doesn’t fill out the entire depth chart. Circling back for a tantalizing talent like Cooper in the fourth round would fortify the group for the defensive coaching staff.

Cooper thrives when he’s given the freedom to crash into the pocket from the edge with minimal concern about what’s going on around him. The reason he projects to be available this late in the draft is that he isn’t the most well-rounded defensive end in the class. He’s something of a one-trick pony as a pass rusher at this stage in his development.

That makes him an ideal replacement for Judon in Baltimore’s defensive system. They don’t need Cooper to come in and immediately give them a boost against the run. If they can find a credible sack threat in Round 4 their scouts will have done their job.

There’s a chance Cooper’s stock could rise as the draft approaches, but the odds still favor him being on the board when the Ravens go on the clock on Day 3. Coming away with both Paye and Cooper would be an impressive pass-rushing haul for Baltimore’s front office.