In the world of the NFL, where draft picks are as much about hope as they are about talent, the Baltimore Ravens struck gold in the 2018 NFL Draft, a move that redefined the franchise’s course.
Looking back six years, it’s clear: the Ravens’ selections in that pivotal year have paid off immensely. While their initial pick, tight end Hayden Hurst, didn’t make the impact Baltimore might have hoped for, the draft was far from a disappointment.
The true gem for the Ravens came when they made the strategic decision to trade back into the first round, a move that saw them acquire Lamar Jackson. Jackson, a quarterback whose professional potential was debated by pundits, has silenced critics by becoming the undeniable heart of the team and earning two MVP titles. This decision alone could be considered one of the franchise’s most defining moments.
Beyond Jackson, the Ravens demonstrated their keen eye for talent throughout the draft. Their third-round selections brought in offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr. and tight end Mark Andrews, both from Oklahoma. Today, they are recognized as among the top players at their positions in the entire league.
The draft’s later rounds were just as fruitful for Baltimore. Players like cornerback Anthony Averett, safety Deshon Elliott, center Bradley Bozeman, and defensive end Zach Sieler may not have all stayed with the Ravens, but they’ve proven their worth as NFL players, showcasing the depth and quality of the Ravens’ 2018 draft class.
This class didn’t just bring talent to the Ravens; it earned recognition as the sixth-best draft class of the 21st century and the second-best of the 2010s, trailing only behind the Seattle Seahawks’ legendary 2012 class, according to a recent ESPN ranking.
Such drafting success speaks volumes about the Ravens’ scouting and decision-making prowess. As they continue their hunt for a third Super Bowl title, the fruits of the 2018 draft and the hope for continued drafting excellence remain vital to their strategy.
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