Of all the needs the Ravens have this draft season, defensive end and tight end aren’t high on the list, but they are on the list, nonetheless. While Baltimore has the luxury of being able to draft players based on talent and not need, that system requires they don’t skip a beat.
With the potential to be without both Calais Campbell and Derek Wolfe, Baltimore is suddenly in need of a solid 5-technique for the 3-4 front. Sure, they can try to plug guys currently on their roster in at that spot, but to function the best, the Ravens ought to draft someone this year. Fortunately for them, it’s a deep class at defensive end/edge defender.
Tight end is another position that, if not drafted wouldn’t leave the Ravens barren by any stretch, but if drafted would really fortify their already potent offense. Thanks to the incredible talent of Mark Andrews, the Ravens can afford to draft any kind of tight end they wish (traditional in-line, flex/wing/slot, or F/move (often in the backfield). Run blocking, agility, and pass catching are must-haves in any tight end prospect the Ravens are to explore.
Here are two players that seem to fit the Ravens schemes and figure to be available in the 3rd round when Baltimore is on the clock.
NFL Draft Player Profile: Logan Hall, DE, University of Houston
Height: 6’6”
Weight: 275 pounds
2021 stats: 48 tackles, 13.5 tfl, 6.5 sacks
Key traits: Motor is always running. Combines foot speed and rush moves to get by most pass blockers. Competes on every play. His affinity for the spin move may stunt his growth at the next level unless he goes to other options in his arsenal. Can get stuffed then come right back and get a timely sack. Rarely gets pushed back. Able to stunt from the nose to the edge if need be, while maintaining a proper arc (not out of control).
Ideal position: Defensive tackle (3-technique) on passing downs and a defensive end (5-technique) on running downs
Potential draft spot: Round 3, Pick 76
Why he’d be a good fit: Versatile defensive lineman who plays with fire. Played against high-tempo teams while at Houston but still recorded 20 ½ tackles for loss in 48 games. He wouldn’t have to start right away, which would keep him fresh and make him even more effective. Is used to sustaining a high motor when playing against fast-paced teams, which would be perfect as the Ravens’ main competition is now Joe Burrow and the Bengals’ quick-strike offense.
Cool side note: Led the Cougars in tackles for loss (13.5) in 2021 while mostly playing as an interior defensive lineman.
Bottom line: Drafting Hall looks to be a “low-risk, high-reward, dividend in the long game” kind of pick.
NFL Draft Player Profile: Isaiah Likely, Tight End, Coastal Carolina
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 240 pounds
2021 stats: 59 receptions, 912 yards, 15.5 ypr, 12 TD, long reception of 99 yards
Key traits: Big play walking. Hands catcher with breakaway speed for someone his size. Crafty to slip zone coverages, especially in the red zone. Able to run a wide variety of routes from multiple alignments (split wide, in-line, as a wing, or as a move tight end). Plays with passion. Good catch radius. Caught 27 touchdowns in 48 games.
Ideal position: F (or “move”) tight end
Potential draft spot: Round 3, Pick 76
Why he’d be a good fit: Baltimore’s tight ends weren’t exempt from injury in 2021, and strengthening that position is a must if the Ravens want to sustain their diverse offensive output. Blocking is a must for any offensive prospect of the Ravens, and Likely is efficient in that regard. He’s not a “driver,” but does a good job to shield defenders. Seems to be coachable, too. Likely could be an instant fit in Baltimore, as Coastal Carolina ran a lot of the same plays the Ravens do.
Cool side note: Was named to the Dean’s List (3.5 GPA) three times and the President’s List (4.0) twice. Was also named a 2nd team All-American in 2021.
Bottom line: There are higher priorities for the Ravens but adding a tight end in this draft should be somewhere on their to-do list. Likely would complement Mark Andrews perfectly and alleviate coverage on other Ravens as well.
Born in Baltimore, Mike had long been drawn to sports of all kinds. Growing up watching Cal Ripken play ever day gave him a great example for which to attack every endeavor he undertakes.
When the Ravens came to town, though, that’s when Mike found his passion. Since that time, he’s tried to gain every bit of knowledge he could. Now as a high school coach, Mike is able to take his film study and appreciation of the game to a new level.
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