Examining the Ravens’ 11 selection alternatives using the NFL Draft guide “The Beast”

The Baltimore Ravens enter the 2025 NFL Draft with 11 selections, a unique position that gives them significant leverage to improve their roster. With an eye on both immediate needs and long-term success, Baltimore can be strategic in selecting top-tier talent from various positions. The NFL Draft Guide “The Beast” by Dane Brugler offers a comprehensive look at the most talented prospects, and this article will break down the Ravens’ draft alternatives based on these selections. We will explore their needs, the best fits for each selection, and how these picks could impact the Ravens’ roster.

1. Understanding Baltimore’s Current Roster Needs (300-400 words)
Before diving into the draft alternatives, it’s important to understand where the Ravens need help. The team’s performance over the last season highlighted several key positions requiring upgrades:

• Wide Receiver: Despite the additions of a few new faces, the receiving corps still lacks a true No. 1 option.
• Offensive Line: While the Ravens’ offensive line is solid, adding depth and versatility is crucial.
• Cornerback: The defense, especially the secondary, could benefit from more depth at cornerback.
• Edge Rusher: Adding a pass rusher to complement their existing front seven would help take the defense to the next level.

Each of these positions could be addressed with one or more of their 11 picks. Let’s look at some draft possibilities based on “The Beast” and how these options fit with the Ravens’ needs.

2. Wide Receiver Alternatives (300-400 words)
One of the most pressing areas for Baltimore is the wide receiver position. With their 11 picks, they have a chance to land a standout wide receiver who can contribute immediately. “The Beast” offers several potential first-round and second-round options, such as:

• Marvin Harrison Jr. (Ohio State): A generational talent who could be the perfect fit as a No. 1 receiver.
• Xavier Worthy (Texas): A speedster with big-play ability that could complement Lamar Jackson’s deep-ball accuracy.
• Jalen McMillan (Washington): A versatile, all-around receiver who could step in and produce quickly.

These players offer various skill sets that would address different aspects of the Ravens’ offense, from deep threats to reliable possession receivers. Depending on where the Ravens are selecting, they could land one of these players and immediately give Jackson a legitimate weapon.

3. Offensive Line Depth (300-400 words)
The Ravens have a solid offensive line but could always use more depth and youth to continue developing their blocking scheme. There are several highly rated offensive line prospects that could provide immediate competition or long-term stability:

• Joe Alt (Notre Dame): A strong prospect who could play tackle or guard, adding flexibility and depth.
• Jared Verse (Florida State): Known for his strength and technique, Verse could develop into a top-tier NFL lineman.
• Blake Fisher (Notre Dame): A raw but talented player who has the potential to become a key starter.

Adding a top-tier offensive lineman could fortify the Ravens’ line, helping Jackson with both pass protection and the running game, especially with the team’s commitment to a physical, run-heavy offense.

4. Cornerback Prospects (300-400 words)
The Ravens’ defense has been one of the league’s best, but a lack of depth at cornerback could be an issue moving forward. With several elite cornerback prospects available, the Ravens can find a future starter to pair with their already strong secondary:

• Kool-Aid McKinstry (Alabama): A ball hawk with great instincts and speed, McKinstry could contribute quickly in a starting role.
• Devin Neal (Georgia): An aggressive player with great coverage skills and physicality that would thrive in Baltimore’s defense.
• Emmanuel Forbes (Mississippi State): Known for his ball skills and ability to create turnovers, Forbes could bring a game-changing element to the defense.

Selecting a cornerback early in the draft would solidify a crucial piece of Baltimore’s defense for the future.

5. Edge Rusher Candidates (300-400 words)
The Ravens’ defense relies heavily on generating pressure up front, and adding a pass rusher to complement their existing talent could push them into the elite tier of defenses. Some top edge rusher prospects from “The Beast” include:

• Jared Verse (Florida State): A powerful edge rusher with a quick first step, great hand technique, and natural pass-rushing ability.
• Isaiah Foskey (Notre Dame): Known for his relentless motor, Foskey would fit well in Baltimore’s defense.
• B.J. Ojulari (LSU): A versatile rusher who can play both inside and outside, Ojulari is a disruptive force.

Securing a top edge rusher would provide a significant boost to the Ravens’ defense and take some pressure off their secondary.

6. Additional Draft Alternatives (200-300 words)
With 11 selections, the Ravens are in a great position to pick up talent in various rounds. Additional options may include:

• Tight End Depth: Adding a talented tight end could create mismatches in the red zone and open up the passing game.
• Running Back: With J.K. Dobbins’ injury history, adding a reliable backup or future starter could be essential.
• Quarterback: While Lamar Jackson is the future, the Ravens could use a developmental backup to ensure long-term stability at the position.

These selections would allow the Ravens to continue building a well-rounded roster that can compete for championships year after year.

With 11 selections in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens are well-positioned to address several key needs while continuing to build a championship-contending roster. By selecting wisely and strategically, they can add immediate contributors, particularly at wide receiver, offensive line, cornerback, and edge rusher. Utilizing the comprehensive analysis in “The Beast,” the Ravens have a range of talented prospects to choose from. This draft could shape their future for years to come, and their selection strategy will be critical to staying competitive in a loaded AFC.