Ravens Eye Bold Draft Strategy After Historic Trade Decision

As the Ravens gear up for the NFL draft, strategic moves in the trenches and key depth picks could redefine their roster and address last season's struggles.

As the first phase of NFL free agency wraps up, the Baltimore Ravens are gearing up for off-season workouts and the upcoming NFL draft in April. Known for their steadfast organizational philosophy, the Ravens have never traded away a first-round pick in their 31-year history.

However, with only 30 sacks last season and the addition of Jesse Minter, they might be ready to shake things up. Their latest move?

A four-year, $112 million deal with former Bengals edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, aiming to add some serious firepower on the edge.

The Ravens still hold onto their first-round picks and have $28,476,069 in salary cap space, thanks to restructuring Lamar Jackson's contract. With their assets intact, let’s dive into an updated seven-round draft projection for Eric DeCosta using PFF's mock draft simulator.

Round 1, Pick 14: Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State

Ioane is a powerhouse on the field, bringing 330 pounds of elite force and quickness. His accolades include second-team All-America honors from the Walter Camp Football Foundation.

Over his tenure at Penn State, he played 44 games, starting 32, and allowed zero sacks with only three pressures in 310 pass-blocking snaps in 2025. Ioane’s blend of power and agility makes him a formidable addition to the Ravens' offensive line.

Round 2, Pick 45: Peter Woods, DI, Clemson

Woods is a 2025 first-team All-American with a knack for making big plays. His college career stats include 99 tackles, 14.5 for loss, five sacks, and two forced fumbles.

Known for his versatility, Woods is the only player in college football last season to record games with both a sack and a rushing touchdown. His presence on the defensive line could be a game-changer for Baltimore.

Round 3, Pick 80: Antonio Williams, WR, Clemson

Williams is a reliable target with impressive stats: 208 receptions, 2,336 yards, and 21 touchdowns over 42 games. His consistent performance earned him All-ACC honors twice. Standing at 5-foot-11, Williams could be a key piece in the Ravens' receiving corps.

Round 4, Pick 115: Billy Schrauth, G, Notre Dame

Schrauth is a 6-foot-4, 310-pound left guard who earned Second Team All-American honors. Known for his solid play, he started seven games and was instrumental on the offensive line. Schrauth’s accolades include the Outland Trophy National Player of the Week award and a spot on the Lombardi Award Watch List.

Round 5, Pick 152: Devon Marshall, CB, North Carolina State

Marshall's standout performance includes leading the Wolfpack with 14 pass breakups and earning a 90.1 grade from PFF in 2025. His ability to disrupt plays makes him a valuable addition to the Ravens' secondary.

Round 5, Pick 160: Jaydn Ott, HB, Oklahoma

Ott's college career was marked by both talent and injuries. He had a breakout freshman year with 897 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. Despite an injury-filled season at Oklahoma, Ott’s potential as a versatile backfield threat is undeniable.

Round 5, Pick 172: Eli Raridon, TE, Notre Dame

Raridon was a consistent performer last season, starting all 12 games with 32 catches for 482 yards. Known for his big-play ability, he averaged 15.1 yards per catch, making him a potential asset in Baltimore's passing game.

Round 5, Pick 173: Josh Cuevas, TE, Alabama

Cuevas, despite missing games due to injury, recorded 37 receptions for 411 yards and four touchdowns. His inclusion on the Mackey Award Watch List highlights his talent as a top tight end prospect.

Round 6, Pick 210: Skyler Gill-Howard, DI, Texas Tech

Gill-Howard made a strong impression before an injury cut his season short. With 13 tackles and a pass-rushing grade of 90.0 from PFF, his potential impact on the Ravens’ defensive front is significant.

Round 7, Pick 249: DeVonta Smith, CB, Notre Dame

Smith showcased his skills with 20 tackles and three pass breakups in eight games. His ability to make key plays, like recovering a fumble against Arkansas, adds depth to Baltimore's defensive backfield.

Round 7, Pick 252: Cole Payton, QB, North Dakota State

Payton is a promising quarterback prospect from a school known for producing NFL talent. His 2025 season saw him lead the Bison to a 12-1 record with 3,188 passing yards and 29 total touchdowns. Payton's development could be a valuable long-term investment for the Ravens.

With these potential picks, the Ravens are poised to bolster both their offensive and defensive units, keeping fans excited for what’s to come.