Ravens’ Moves for Day 2 of the NFL Draft
I don’t know about you Ravens Nation, but I’m pumped. The whole night I was on pins and needles watching star after star going off the board, hoping the Ravens got an LSU player. I was a fan of all that fit in the first round (outside of Burrow and Delpit). I chatted it up with folks on the sports grinders page, and there was a ton of emotion in both directions concerning the pick.
I thought for sure the team was trading out of the first round, but I was excited to see Patrick Queen drafted to the Baltimore Ravens at 28. Some fans have the question if he can tackle Derrick Henry. I felt the need to go to the YouTube machine and found an objective video from a peer of mine. Hopefully, his video answers all of your questions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mg6C9J7MOVA
What we need to look forward to is what’s left on the board, and what are the team’s needs going forward? The Ravens have the 55th and 60th overall picks in the second round. Of course, with Eric DeCosta, that may change, but here are a couple of guys that may be money on day 2.
Guys the Ravens will more than likely miss out on
Yetur Gross-Matos, Edge
YGM, in my opinion, was a first-round pick. I was excited about his explosion around the edge and the amount of pop he had when delivering punishment to defenders. The former Nittany Lion definitely meets the need of pass-rusher. With 111 total tackles, 20-sacks and 2-forced fumbles through three years, the production is there to prove he can perform at the next level. What I love about this young man is his use of hands to work through defenders and get to the ball-carrier. YGM will be gone in the first 10-picks of the second round.
A.J. Epenesa, Edge
Here is a prototypical pass rusher who is stout against the run. I was against the Ravens drafting him initially, until I dove into his tape. Again, this is another guy with powerful hands. I like how he rips through the linemen. He’s a very physical guy who can’t wait to pass out a hug or two. 2019 was a solid year for him as he racked up 49-tackles (14 for loss), and 11.5-sacks. Wink would love to add the weapon to his arsenal. Should EDC pull off a miracle, be ready for exciting popping plays from this Iowa monster.
Players EDC may have to trade up for
J.K. Dobbins, RB
This Ohio State product has a great deal of wiggle and acceleration. In 2019 Dobbins killed it with 2003 rushing yards and 21-TDs for the Buckeyes. He is versed in catching the ball as well. He had 23 catches for 247-yards and 2 TDs during 2019 as well. This a definite homerun hitter once he reaches the second level. If Baltimore was looking for another shifty speedster, which I doubt because Justice Hill has shown he fits that build. However, if they were, this would be the guy.
Tee Higgins, WR
Here is a guy who can climb the ladder for the ball and do a great deal after the catch. He’s solid on slants and go-routes. He would be a great addition to this offense, even if it is just to raise Miles Boykin’s level of competition up. Maybe they both can push each other to be great. The downside to Tee is blocking and shorter routes. He’s a definite downfield threat, but his fundamental short or comeback routes need work. Teams are going to compare him to Sammy Watkins and go after him early in the second round.
Players the Ravens could land at their current pick…maybe
Laviska Shenault, WR
Here is a fan favorite that I’m just not that high on mainly because while he makes contested catches and does a great deal after the catch on shorter routes, I would like to see more separation created on his routes. If Baltimore took him, I would root for just like any other Raven. The former Colorado Buffalo is tough as nails, and if I had to make an NFL comparison, I would say Deebo Samuel.
Michael Pittman Jr., WR
EDC was correct to say this draft is full of WRs. This USC player is a confident, flashy highlight reel. Pittman Jr. has the ability to track the deep ball. I love how he climbs the ladder for catches. #6 appear a bit handsy when running routes, but hopefully, David Culley can help clean that up. This former Trojan’s contributions in blocking and on special teams are notable as well. If EDC can stand pat and land this one, I’d be shocked. He plays like a Raven.
Bradlee Anae, Edge
I’m trying to figure out why a prospect like this would slip to the second. I look at the take on this guy and am in awe. In the PAC-12, he is a man amongst boys but wow! 29 Sacks in four years is solid. What leaps off the cutups for me is his relentless pursuit. He doesn’t give up on a play. Coaches love guys who have hustle and heart. The Utah product can get underneath linemen’s pads and make earth-shaking plays. I would love to see this guy in Black and Purple.
As you can see, there are a ton of players with solid skill sets available on day 2. Will one of these guys slide to the Ravens? Based on last night. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, or should I say General Manager. Anything is possible.