Daniel Jeremiah Predicts Ravens to Make Two First-Round Picks in Mock Draft

In the lead-up to the upcoming NFL Draft, analysts are speculating about the Baltimore Ravens’ strategy and potential selections. Daniel Jeremiah recently predicted that the Ravens could end up with two first-round picks, creating intriguing possibilities for their roster.

Potential First-Round Selections

• Ioane: A popular choice in most mock drafts.
• Spencer Fano (Utah): A wide receiver option.
• Other considerations: A possible edge rusher.

While cornerback isn’t a top priority for the Ravens, the potential availability of LSU’s Mansoor Delane has them considering him. Delane is projected to be a top-10 pick but may fall due to other teams focusing on offensive linemen.

Delane’s Draft Outlook

There’s speculation that Delane may slide below the top 10. ESPN’s Jamison Hensley noted that teams may choose to bolster their offensive lines instead. Additionally, he mentioned that Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy could be the first cornerback chosen in the draft.

If Delane is still on the board at No. 14, the Ravens may take advantage of that opportunity. The cornerback position has become crucial as Marlon Humphrey, who turns 31 this July, is entering the final year of his contract.

Strategic Needs and Future Considerations

Jeff Zrebiec from The Athletic pointed out that Delane could represent the best player available for the Ravens. The team has invested heavily in its secondary, selecting a defensive back in three of the last four drafts.

Questions arise regarding General Manager Eric DeCosta’s potential decision-making if Delane indeed falls into Baltimore’s lap. Shutdown cornerbacks are rare, especially for teams that pick later in the draft.

Future of the Ravens’ Secondary

Alongside Humphrey, Chidobe Awuzie is also set to enter free agency next season, making cornerback a vital consideration for the future.

On another note, the Ravens have a robust safety lineup, including All-Pro Kyle Hamilton and 2025 first-round pick Malaki Starks. Free-agent acquisition Jaylinn Hawkins rounds out the group, but the team has conducted significant scouting for safety prospects.

This indicates that even if safety isn’t a primary focus for their Round 1 pick, the Ravens are diligently preparing for all possibilities as they look to strengthen their roster in the upcoming draft.