Will the Ravens get what they need in the draft?
Still trying to get over the disappointing loss to the Bills in the 2024 playoffs, the Ravens still have a roster that deserves Super Bowl conversation. But they need to hit at least a triple in the draft.
Their biggest need comes at the wide receiver position to find a running mate for Zay Flowers.
Ravens wrap up WR Jayden Higgins in Round 1
Here we go again with the PFF simulator. This doesn’t seem like the direction the Ravens would go at all in this spot. Higgins profiles as a late second-round selection, at best.
The Iowa State star has size at 6-foot-4 and 214 pounds. But this pick fails in a lot of ways. However, Pro Football Network has good things to say.
“Jayden Higgins is a wide receiver known for his impressive size and reliable hands,” PFN wrote. “Higgins excels in contested catch situations, utilizing his frame to shield defenders and secure the ball effectively. However, his limited agility can make it challenging for him to create separation on sharply breaking routes. Higgins’ combination of size, ball skills, and productivity makes him a valuable asset in possession and vertical passing schemes.”
Not so great. Making matters worse, Luther Burden III, a legitimate first-round pick, remained on the board. PFN said his YAC ability is arguably the best of any wide receiver in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Big whiff for the Ravens to go with Higgins.
WR Xavier Restrepo lands in Round 2
It’s not so bad to get a University of Miami receiver at this point. However, this makes the first two picks in the draft from the same position. That seems a little over-heavy.
And again, the Ravens used panic-buying to pick a third-round guy in the second round. What’s going on with the PFF simulator?
The smallish Restrepo (5-9, 209) won’t be limited to the slot, according to PFN.
“While he thrives in the slot and over the middle, his versatility and sharp route running make him a rising NFL prospect,” PFN wrote. “Restrepo’s ability to create separation, find holes in coverage, and adapt his routes to break defenses sets him apart. Though he’s neither the fastest nor the biggest, he plays with unmatched heart and ball skills, making him a complete package in 11 personnel. His flexibility and natural instincts are driving his climb up draft boards, showcasing a future as a dynamic, multi-faceted threat.”
In the real world, Ravens GM Eric DeCosta said the draft has good wide receiver options, according to baltimoreravens.com.
“I think it’s a pretty good class draft-wise and free agency-wise as well,” DeCosta said. “We feel like there is a good opportunity for us to find some good talent either through free agency or the Draft, in every round and every price point.”
Also, keep in the mind the Ravens could have gone with Ohio State edge J.T. Tuimolau at this spot. Furthermore, they could have grabbed Notre Dame cornerback Benjamin Morrison.
