…I think it’s okay.
Kenneth Murray (Oklahoma) and Patrick Queen (LSU) have been the two names mocked to the Ravens the most among many of the pundits. Here at BSL, Gabe Ferguson and Jordan Kough talk about them in depth on episode 3 of “The Bank” podcast.
I realize that defenses don’t operate in their base set as much these days. But if the Ravens had a base set, it may be transitioning to a 4-3 from a 3-4. Additions of Calais Campbell and Derek Wolfe are likely bookending a front four with defensive tackles Brandon Williams and Daylon Mack, as Campbell and Wolfe aren’t the two-gapping type. That places even more emphasis on a middle linebacker who can cover the field sideline to sideline, and Kenneth Murray looks like that kind of guy on tape. He also has really good explosion numbers.
Patrick Queen has the benefit of being the defensive communicator on a national championship team, from a school that churns out linebackers like a factory. However, he looks more like a safety than a linebacker. His coverage defense is better than Murray. His run stopping ability is worse than Murray.
Eric DeCosta said pertaining to Queen and Murray, “depends on what flavor you like.” Sounds about right. But what if two of the other 27 teams ahead of them in the 2020 draft like these flavors? Or another wrench in the mix is the Seattle Seahawks. Why you ask? The Seahawks have traded back seven drafts in a row now and pick just before the Ravens at 27. If the trend continues, one of those sorry teams picking at the top of round two could trade up into the first round and snake one of these linebackers right before the Ravens pick.
We’ll find out how round one plays out tomorrow night. Discuss your thoughts on this topic, and draft night on our message board.
If they don’t land Queen or Murray, don’t be surprised if the Ravens trade back and use their capital to jump up in the mid rounds to get guys they really want. There are other options in the second and third rounds that Baltimore could address needs with. They have two second round picks. Feel like they could end up with three or four.
Here are a couple possible alternatives to the often-mock drafted Queen and Murray:
Jordyn Brooks, Texas Tech – 6’0”, 240 lbs.: As opposed to Queen who was a one-year starter at LSU, Brooks has been a starter since his true freshman season in 2016 and has a size and speed combo you’re looking for from a defensive field general. 4.54 40-time at 240 lbs. He’s one of college football’s best run stoppers. Like Murray he isn’t going to flash in coverage. But I wonder how much of that is playing in the Big 12. Do the cornerbacks in the Big 12 even have good coverage skills?
Willie Gay Jr., Mississippi State – 6’1”, 243 lbs.: Gay is every bit as physically gifted as the best linebackers in the draft, with versatility to play in the middle, or outside backer. If not for Isaiah Simmons, it would be Gay’s combine skills we would be talking about. Excels in run stopping, coverage, and blitzing. But he gets a second or third round grade because of character concerns. He’s been suspended for cheating on a chemistry test and got in a fist fight with quarterback Garrett Schrader leading up to the Bulldogs Bowl Game, breaking his teammates orbital bone. The character concerns are on the extreme end, whereas Kenneth Murray is on the other extreme, being the son of a preacher and helping raise three adopted siblings with special needs.
Here are a couple interior O-lineman that fill another position of need with the retirement of Marshal Yanda:
Cesar Ruiz, Michigan – 6’3” 307lbs.: Ruiz played some guard at Michigan, but last season played all 919 snaps at center. The Ravens have versatility in the interior with Bradley Bozeman, Patrick Mekari, and Matt Skura all having collegiate guard and center experience. While Bozeman figures to be the left guard, Skura slated at center, and Ben Powers in the mix, Ruiz would add another option to mix and match the interior spots to create the best fits. He played at IMG Academy before choosing Michigan over Auburn and Florida. His 11” hands are some pretty big paws to shove defenders off with. Mel Kiper and Todd McShay have him mocked at the end of round one, early round two. Pro Football Focus compares him to Maurkice Pouncey.
Netane Muti, Fresno State – 6’3” 315 lbs.: Muti is a guard the Ravens should grab in round two If you want to plug him right into the O-line without playing a shell game between a few centers that can also play guard. The Tongan born, Hawaiian native (we know what kind of football factory the Pacific Islands are) racked up 44 reps on the bench press and is an absolute physical freak. Word is his freshman season tape could have gotten him drafted alone as he excels in all aspects of the game. The only reason he isn’t an elite, first round prospect is because of injuries. An Achillies allowed him to redshirt in 2016. Then another Achillies in 2018, followed by a Lisfranc injury last year. On 1,273 snaps between left guard and left tackle in his career, he’s allowed just one sack, and 14 pressures.
Ravens Analyst
Mike was born on the Eastern Shore, raised in Finksburg, and currently resides in Parkville. In 2009, Mike graduated from the Broadcasting Institute of Maryland. Mike became a Baltimore City Fire Fighter in late 2010. Mike has appeared as a guest on Q1370, and FOX45. Now a Sr. Ravens Analyst for BSL, he can be reached at mike.randall@baltimoresportsandlife.com.