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The Ravens will be back on the clock before you know it. By picking Georgia safety Malaki Starks at No. 27 overall in the first round Thursday night, they addressed one of their biggest needs to help fix a secondary that struggled mightily last season. Now, attention turns toward finding players at other important positions on the roster: Defensive line, edge rusher, cornerback and offensive line. Here’s a look at some of the Day 2 prospects at those positions of need who could be available for the Ravens when they pick at No. 59 overall in the second round and No. 91 in the third. Note: Rankings are from the NFL Mock Draft Database consensus big board. Defensive line Darius Alexander, Toledo (No. 50 overall): The 6-foot-4, 305-pound Alexander recorded 20 tackles for loss and nine sacks in his final three seasons as Toledo. He stepped up against stiffer competition at the Senior Bowl, where he was voted the National Team’s top defensive lineman. T.J. Sanders, South Carolina (No. 56): The 6-4, 305-pound Sanders had 8 1/2 sacks and 16 1/2 tackles for loss as a two-year starter for the Gamecocks. He’s described as a late bloomer because he didn’t focus on football until his junior year in high school. Alfred Collins, Texas (No. 63): The 6-6, 332-pound Collins posted 7 1/2 sacks and 18 tackles for loss in five seasons with the Longhorns, including 5 1/2 tackles for loss as a starter in 2024 after playing behind future pros T’Vondre Sweat and Byron Murphy III. Shemar Turner, Texas A&M (No. 72): The 6-3, 290-pound Turner was a three-year starter for the Aggies, recording 10 sacks and 22 1/2 tackles for loss. The former five-star recruit pulled out of the Senior Bowl because of a stress fracture he suffered during 2024 fall camp and previously had surgery for shoulder and shin injuries. Tennessee defensive lineman Omarr Norman-Lott celebrates on Sept. 8, 2024, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Scott Kinser) Omarr Norman-Lott, Tennessee (No. 74): The 6-2, 303-pound Norman-Lott played three seasons at Arizona State before transferring to Tennessee, where he recorded 9 1/2 sacks and 10 tackles for loss in two seasons as a rotational player. He led all FBS interior defensive linemen in 2024 in pass rush win rate (12.6%). Joshua Farmer, Florida State (No. 84): The 6-3, 305-pound Farmer was a two-year starter for the Seminoles and posted 11 sacks and 21 tackles for loss. As a team captain in 2024, he finished second on the team in pressures (26). Ty Robinson, Nebraska (No. 97): The 6-6, 288-pound Robinson has played a ton of snaps as a five-year starter with the Cornhuskers, recording 12 sacks and 26 1/2 tackles for loss in 60 games. He was voted one of the team’s toughest players. CJ West, Indiana (No. 100): After four seasons at Kent State, West transferred to Indiana, where he had a breakout year as the man in the middle of the top-ranked run defense in FBS. The 6-1, 316-pound West recorded 42 tackles, 7 1/2 tackles for loss and two sacks for the Hoosiers, standing out for his effort and burst. Deone Walker, Kentucky (No. 104): The 6-8, 328-pound Walker posted 10 sacks and 22 tackles for loss as a three-year starter at Kentucky, where he lined up at three-technique and nose tackle. He was diagnosed with pars defect, a fracture between two vertebrae in the spine, during the 2024 season but still played 11 games. Jamaree Caldwell, Oregon (No. 110): The 6-2, 332-pound Caldwell played scout team offensive line at community college and later walked on at junior college before transferring to Houston and enjoying a breakout 2023 season with 6 1/2 sacks. He played nose tackle at Oregon with more run-stopping responsibilities. Edge rusher Mike Green, Marshall (No. 17): The 6-3, 241-pound Green was considered a first-round prospect after leading the FBS with 17 sacks last season, but during the combine he acknowledged two sexual assault allegations stemming from his time in high school and college. Green was never charged and has denied any wrongdoing. Donovan Ezeiruaku, Boston College (No. 30): The 6-3, 248-pound Ezeiruaku ranked second behind Green with 16 1/2 sacks last season to finish with 30 over his four-year career, joining Mathias Kiwanuka as the only players in school history to do so. His size might be a drawback against the run, but he has the talent to be an effective pass rusher. Nic Scourton, Texas A&M (No. 41): The 6-3, 257-pound Scourton posted a Big Ten-best 10 sacks at Purdue in 2023 and added five sacks with the Aggies playing at a much higher weight on a defense that doesn’t turn its pass rushers loose. He’s one of the youngest players in the class at 20 years old. Landon Jackson, Arkansas (No. 52): The 6-6, 264-pound Jackson, an LSU transfer, became the first player to lead the Razorbacks in tackles for loss and sacks in back-to-back seasons in a decade. He comes with some medical concerns after suffering two season-ending injuries in high school (torn ACL, broken ankle) and a neck injury in his final college game. JT Tuimoloau, Ohio State (No. 53): The 6-4, 264-pound Tuimoloau could be off the board by the time the Ravens pick after recording 23 1/2 sacks and 43 1/2 tackles for loss in four seasons with the Buckeyes, including three as a starter. The Athletic’s Dane Brugler describes him as “one of the most well-rounded defensive prospects in the class.” Princely Umanmielen, Ole Miss (No. 57): The 6-4, 244-pound Umanmielen had 15 sacks in three seasons at Florida and nearly matched that total with 10 1/2 in his lone season at Ole Miss. If he can refine his game and play with more urgency, he has all the tools to succeed. UCLA defensive end Oluwafemi Oladejo runs through drills during practice for the Senior Bowl on Jan. 30, 2025, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill) Oluwafemi Oladejo, UCLA (No. 61): The 6-3, 261-pound Oladejo made the switch from inside linebacker to stand-up pass rusher this past season and thrived, recording a career-best 4 1/2 sacks and 13 1/2 tackles for loss. He might just be scratching the surface of his potential. Jack Sawyer, Ohio State (No. 65): The 6-4, 260-pound Sawyer has been somewhat overlooked, but he showed during Ohio State’s four-game run to the College Football Playoff national championship (4 1/2 sacks, 6 batted passes, fumble recovery TD) that he’s a force to be reckoned with. Against top competition, he posted 23 sacks in his four-year career. Bradyn Swinson, LSU (No. 68): The 6-4, 255-pound Swinson made the most of his lone season as a starter, leading the Tigers in tackles for loss (13), sacks (8 1/2) and pressures (59). He’s inexperienced but has the tools to develop into an impact player. Jordan Burch, Oregon (No. 71): The 6-4, 279-pound Burch is a former five-star recruit at defensive tackle who began his career at South Carolina before transferring to Oregon for his final two seasons. The 24-year-old pushes the pocket effectively, recording 8 1/2 sacks and 11 tackles for loss while battling knee and ankle injuries in 2024. Josaiah Stewart, Michigan (No. 81): At 6-1, 249 pounds with no athletic testing numbers, Stewart is not going to be for everyone. But the Coastal Carolina transfer has 30 sacks, 47 tackles for loss and six forced fumbles on his resume and jumps off the screen with his explosiveness. Kyle Kennard, South Carolina (No. 90): The 6-4, 254-pound Kennard transferred from Georgia Tech and led the SEC with 11 1/2 sacks to become the first South Carolina player to win the Bronko Nagurski Trophy as the nation’s top defensive player. His inconsistency, however, could push him to late Day 2. Ashton Gillotte, Louisville (No. 94): The 6-3, 264-pound Gillotte recorded an ACC-leading 14 1/2 sacks to earn second-team All-America honors in 2023 and finished his career ranked fifth in school history in tackles for loss (39 1/2) and sixth in sacks (25 1/2). He’s not fast or flexible, but he plays with power. Jared Ivey, Ole Miss (No. 119): Another Georgia Tech transfer, the 6-6, 274-pound Ivey recorded 16 sacks and 26 1/2 tackles for loss in three seasons at Ole Miss. His 82 3/4-inch wingspan, 85th percentile among defensive linemen, is appealing. David Walker, Central Arkansas (No. 132): The 6-1, 263-pound Walker packs a lot of punch in his compact frame, recording 82 1/2 tackles for loss and 39 sacks over the past four seasons at Division II Southern Arkansas and FCS Central Arkansas. The 25-year-old also has experience dropping into coverage. Cornerback Will Johnson, Michigan (No. 13): The 6-2, 194-pound Johnson has plenty of talent, but injuries and a lack of speed (he declined to run a 40-yard dash before the draft) severely impacted his draft stock. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Johnson “has a knee issue that has concerned some NFL teams.” Trey Amos, Ole Miss (No. 38): The 6-1, 195-pound Amos played three years at Louisiana and then behind Kool-Aid McKinstry and Terrion Arnold at Alabama before transferring to Ole Miss after Nick Saban retired. His standout final season with the Rebels and athletic profile pushed him up draft boards. Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina (No. 42): The 6-2, 202-pound Revel was becoming a first-round lock before suffering a torn ACL in September. He’s an older prospect (24) from a smaller school, but his combination of size, speed and athleticism is intriguing enough for a team to believe in. Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame (No. 48): The 6-foot, 193-pound Morrison burst onto the scene as a freshman All-American with six interceptions, but two hip surgeries over the past four years raise some concerns. If he’s fully healthy, he has the tools to be a starter. Florida State defensive back Azareye'h Thomas tackles Florida wide receiver Tank Hawkins on Nov. 30, 2024, in Tallahassee, Florida. (AP Photo/Colin Hackley) Azareye’h Thomas, Florida State (No. 49): The 6-2, 196-pound Thomas lacks high-end speed (4.58-second 40-yard dash), but his length and physicality make him a sticky defender in both man and zone coverage. Darien Porter, Iowa State (No. 66): The 6-3, 195-pound Porter played wide receiver for three seasons with the Cyclones before transitioning to corner. He has rare size, length and speed, but he requires a lot of projection to feel comfortable about his NFL fit. Jacob Parrish, Kansas State (No. 88): The 5-10, 191-pound Parrish is short for the position and might only be a slot defender in the NFL, but he has the athleticism and tenacity to stick on the outside. Nohl Williams, California (No. 96): The 6-foot, 199-pound Williams played three seasons at UNLV before breaking out with the Bears, earning consensus All-America honors in 2024 while leading the FBS with seven interceptions. He’s a reliable tackler and could even play safety. Quincy Riley, Louisville (No. 105): The 5-11, 194-pound Riley, a transfer from Middle Tennessee, ranked second in the FBS with 29 passes defended over the past two seasons. His ball skills are undeniable, as he is the only player in this draft class with at least 15 career interceptions. Dorian Strong, Virginia Tech (No. 113): The 6-1, 185-pound, an Upper Marlboro native who starred at Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High, was a five-year starter for the Hokies, recording seven interceptions in 53 games. Offensive line Aireontae Ersery, OT, Minnesota (No. 45): The 6-6, 331-pound Ersery started 38 straight games at left tackle for the Golden Gophers, earning the Big Ten’s Rimington-Pace Offensive Lineman of the Year Award in 2024. He has the traits to be a long-term starter if he can clean up some of his mistakes. Jonah Savaiinaea, G/T, Arizona (No. 55): The 6-4, 324-pound Savaiinaea (pronounced Savuh-Nye-A-uh) started 36 straight games at three positions along the offensive line, with most analysts projecting his NFL future at guard. His size, length and athleticism make him a candidate to start right away. Georgia offensive lineman Tate Ratledge looks to block against UMass on Nov. 23, 2024, in Athens. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) Tate Ratledge, G/C, Georgia (No. 64): If not for his short arms (32 1/4 inches), the 6-7, 308-pound Ratledge has almost a perfect athletic profile. His 40-yard dash (4.97), 3-cone drill (7.38), broad jump (9 feet, 5 inches) and vertical jump (32 inches) all rank 88th percentile or better among offensive line, per MockDraftable. The team captain plays with a competitive edge, though he missed at least one game each of the past four seasons with injuries. Marcus Mbow, G/T, Purdue (No. 67): The 6-4, 302-pound Mbow is a former basketball player, and that shows up in his footwork and fluid movements. His 32 starts in college were split between right tackle (18) and right guard (14), but he’s likely an interior lineman at the next level because of his light frame. Wyatt Milum, G/T, West Virginia (No. 80): The 6-7, 313-pound Milum earned freshman All-America honors at right tackle before anchoring the left side of the Mountaineers’ line for the next three years. Although he didn’t allow a sack at left tackle in his career, he struggled at Senior Bowl practices as a pass blocker and lacks ideal length. He’ll likely stick at guard in the NFL. Jared Wilson, C/G, Georgia (No. 82): The 6-3, 310-pound Wilson turned heads with a standout performance at the scouting combine that included a blazing 4.84-second 40-yard dash. The former soccer player is inexperienced and undersized, but his athletic traits are worth betting on. Ozzy Trapilo, OT/G, Boston College (No. 85): The 6-8, 316-pound Trapilo started mostly at right tackle for the Eagles but has some experience at guard, too. The team captain and first-team All-ACC selection did not commit a penalty on 772 offensive snaps in 2024. Related Articles 5 things to know about Ravens first-round NFL draft pick Malaki Starks Mike Preston: Ravens defense better with Starks, but maybe not bold enough | COMMENTARY Instant analysis of Ravens’ selection of Georgia S Malaki Starks at No. 27 Ravens take Georgia safety Malaki Starks with 27th pick in NFL draft NFL draft live updates: Browns trade No. 2 to Jaguars, who pick Travis Hunter Charles Grant, OT/G, William & Mary (No. 87): The 6-5, 309-pound Grant blossomed from a 240-pound prospect into one of the most dominant players at the FCS level. The former wrestler and team captain started 36 games the past three seasons and has alluring agility and length to mold into a potential starter. Anthony Belton, OT/G, NC State (No. 93): The 6-6, 336-pound Belton used his hulking frame to great effect in 32 starts at left tackle, but issues with penalties, body control and consistency need to be cleaned up to become a reliable contributor. Emery Jones Jr., OT, LSU (No. 95): The 6-5, 315-pound Jones started 36 games at right tackle and was twice named second-team All-SEC. Like many of the offensive line prospects in this range of the draft, he has the requisite physical tools to be a starter but needs to be more disciplined. Cameron Williams, OT, Texas (No. 99): The 6-6, 334-pound Williams is considered a raw prospect with only 16 games of starting experience at right tackle. However, his big frame and long arms (34 1/2 inches) are worth betting on as a developmental pick. Miles Frazier, G/T, LSU (No. 114): The 6-6, 317-pound Frazier is versatile and experienced, having played every game the past four seasons with the Tigers and Florida International. His strength and competitiveness stand out. Dylan Fairchild, G, Georgia (No. 117): The 6-5, 325-pound Fairchild worked his way up from scout team to starting left guard for the Bulldogs, earning second-team All-America honors in 2024. The former wrestler is a workout warrior with an eye-popping 440-pound bench, 570 squat and 370 power clean. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

The hope was that the Ravens would secure a top pass rusher on the first day of the draft. That didn’t happen, but they did get better on defense. They still might be able draft a talented pass rusher on Day 2, but it appears more likely that the team will have to sign another veteran free agent. Instead, on Thursday night, the Ravens selected Georgia safety Malaki Starks with the No. 27 overall pick in the first round. Together with Kyle Hamilton and Ar’Darius Washington, the Ravens will have one of the best safety tandems (or trios) in the NFL. You could see Starks eventually falling to the Ravens as the draft unfolded. Penn State’s Abdul Carter went to the New York Giants with the No. 3 overall pick and San Francisco selected Georgia’s Mykel Williams at No. 11. The Bulldogs’ Jalon Walker, another top pass rusher, went to the Atlanta Falcons at No. 15 and the Cincinnati Bengals took Texas A&M’s Shermar Stewart three picks later. Once Pittsburgh chose Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon at No. 21 over Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders and the Falcons traded with the Los Angeles Rams at No. 26 to snatch up Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr., there weren’t many pass rushers left. So, the Ravens made out well with Starks. It happens, especially when a team wins as often and goes to the playoffs as consistently as the Ravens. They always end up picking near the end of the first round. Plus, the Ravens are pretty boring in the draft. They aren’t creative and they aren’t bold. They just stockpile picks, but Starks will make this defense better. Last season, the Ravens’ pass defense was ranked 27th, allowing 238.3 yards a game. The 6-foot-1, 197-pound Starks led the Bulldogs in tackles in 2024 with 77, including four for losses. He also knocked down four passes and had an interception. In 2023, he was a first-team Associated Press All-American and finalist for the Bronko Nagurski (top defender) and Jim Thorpe (top defensive back) Awards after registering 52 tackles and posting three interceptions. The Ravens like versatility in the secondary because it allows them to use multiple looks. With Starks and possibly Washington on the backend, that would free the Ravens to put Hamilton back near the line of scrimmage. “Yes, when you look at the defense, I mean a lot of the guys are versatile,” Starks said Thursday night. “I think that’s a huge strength that they have. I think that’s why they do so well on the defensive side of the ball. They have a lot of guys that can move around and be in different spots that produce at a high level, and I feel like I bring that as well. I think I’m a safety that can move around, so I feel comfortable at the safety spot, but I feel comfortable playing anywhere.” Related Articles 5 things to know about Ravens first-round NFL draft pick Malaki Starks Ravens draft targets on Day 2: Best available players at positions of need Instant analysis of Ravens’ selection of Georgia S Malaki Starks at No. 27 Ravens take Georgia safety Malaki Starks with 27th pick in NFL draft NFL draft live updates: Browns trade No. 2 to Jaguars, who pick Travis Hunter Near the line of scrimmage is where Hamilton is a playmaker. He has good hands, can rush the passer and is clearly a mismatch with most running backs who have to block him. A quarterback always has to account for him whenever he is near the defensive front seven. Combined with Starks, the Ravens have an abundance of athleticism. The rookie ran the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis and had a vertical leap of 33 inches. Plus, the Ravens got some inside information on Starks from offensive coordinator Todd Monken, who was Georgia’s offensive coordinator before taking the same position with the Ravens two years ago. The Ravens were fortunate. Once the Bengals chose Stewart and Pittsburgh selected Harmon, there was only one big-time pass rusher left on the board in Pearce, who had reported character issues coming out of Tennessee. But that didn’t stop the Falcons from taking a gamble on him. Atlanta probably had belief that the Ravens were going to make a move on Pearce, and the Falcons were aggressive. It came at steep cost, though, as Atlanta sent the Rams pick Nos. 46 (second) and 242 (seventh) this year, plus their first-round pick in 2026, for Nos. 26 and 101 (third). It will be interesting to see how much Starks can help the Ravens. Outside linebackers Odafe Oweh and Kyle Van Noy were successful against most teams, but were no-shows against opponents that had strong offensive lines, such as Philadelphia and Buffalo. The Ravens return most of their outside linebackers from a year ago in Tavius Robinson, David Ojabo, Adisa Isaac and Malik Hamm, but they only combined for 5 1/2 sacks a year ago. Pearce had 19 1/2 sacks in three seasons with the Volunteers, including 17 1/2 over the past two years. He also had 28 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles during that time. At 6-5 and 245 pounds, he ran a 4.47-second 40-yard dash at the scouting combine, and it seemed as if he would be a great matchup with Chuck Smith, the Ravens’ pass rushing coach. He would be an ideal fit for a team that just couldn’t get consistent pressure in big games. But once Atlanta traded with the Rams, it was time to go back to reality, and that was Starks. And on Thursday night, that worked well for the Ravens, at least for the time being. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

Here’s what The Baltimore Sun staff had to say immediately after the Ravens’ selection of Georgia safety Malaki Starks in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft on Thursday night in Green Bay, Wisconsin: Brian Wacker, reporter: It was always going to be defense for the Ravens — and likely going to be a safety — with a need to improve a secondary that was one of the worst in the NFL last season, particularly on plays down the field. In landing Starks, Baltimore got not just a productive player (his 77 tackles led the Bulldogs last year), but a defender who can make plays on the ball and is versatile enough top play multiple spots in the backfield. Starks had three pass breakups and an interception in 2024 and was even better in 2023 when he was a first-team Associated Press All-American and finalist for the Bronko Nagurski (top defender) and Jim Thorpe (top defensive back) Awards after racking up 52 tackles, seven pass breakups and three interceptions. He should be an immediate contributor on defense and special teams. Mike Preston, columnist: The Ravens got better on defense. They didn’t get the edge rusher this team so desperately needs, but in Starks they have a prospect who can play center field on defense and allow fellow safety Kyle Hamilton to go back to playing near the line of scrimmage. That’s where Hamilton is at his best. He is one of the best pass rushers on the team and a playmaker. Hamilton has strong hands and is a mismatch for most running backs in pass protection. Starks is 6 feet 1 and weighs 197 pounds. He led the Bulldogs in tackles last season with 77, including four for losses. He has a good nose for the ball and will help the Ravens in coverage. Last season, Baltimore had one of the worst pass defenses in the NFL. Sam Cohn, reporter: This is a really strong start to the draft for Baltimore. The safety position drew plenty of ire from the fan base last year with a rotating cast beside All-Pro Kyle Hamilton that took more than half the season before settling on a suitable partner on the back end, Ar’Darius Washington. Starks could make a quick impact, helping shore up that group. The three-year starter out of Georgia ran a 4.5-second 40-yard dash and jumped 33 inches at the NFL combine. Starks’ speed and ball skills are best downfield, giving the Ravens more flexibility to use their Swiss army knife (Hamilton) where he operates best: closer to the line of scrimmage. A few strengths of Starks’: football IQ, can play the deep ball with plus body control and excellent burst. This is a pick to be excited about after the Ravens let up oh so many explosive plays (58 for 20-plus yards, third most in the NFL) in 2024. Taylor Lyons, reporter: The Ravens joined the rest of the AFC North with going defense in the first round but steered away from the front seven with Georgia safety Malaki Starks. Kyle Hamilton and Ar’Darius Washington, who signed the restricted free agent tender this week, are already one of the NFL’s top safety duos. Adding Starks to the bunch gives defensive coordinator Zach Orr plenty of room to get creative with how he’ll deploy all three. Hamilton could line up deep, a role he thrived in late last season after Marcus Williams was jettisoned from the lineup, or in the box as Starks and Washington complement the Pro Bowl selection elsewhere and Marlon Humphrey and Nate Wiggins anchor the boundaries. The Ravens’ defensive backfield is full of versatile pieces — a dream for Orr, the young defensive coordinator who improved as the season went on and now gets another talent to experiment with. C.J. Doon, editor: Never in doubt, right? Starks was the most common pick among the most accurate mock drafters, and he ends up falling in the Ravens’ laps. His versatility will help shore up a secondary that ranked as one of the worst in the league last year, even after a late-season turnaround. Baltimore loves using three-safety looks, so Starks, All-Pro Kyle Hamilton and breakout star Ar’Darius Washington can all be on the field together. This gives defensive coordinator Zach Orr and new senior secondary coach Chuck Pagano plenty of options to disguise coverages and confuse quarterbacks. Not to mention, he was praised for his leadership at Georgia and his ability to get his teammate lined up properly. Sounds like a perfect fit to fix a sometimes leaky defense. On a related note, the AFC North got a heck of a lot more interesting tonight. The Browns passed on a potential generational two-way player in Travis Hunter and picked up Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham and additional draft capital to rebuild their roster. Whether they regret that move depends on how well Hunter plays and if those additional picks turn into something good (a QB of the future, maybe on Day 2 on Friday? or maybe Arch Manning watch for 2026?), but they were not a Travis Hunter away from competing next year. The Bengals added an athletic marvel in Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart who has all the tools to be a thorn in Lamar Jackson’s side … if he can ever learn to finish sacks. Oh, and of course the Steelers made the sensible pick, taking Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon as the heir apparent to Cameron Heyward. (Sorry, Shedeur Sanders). Those are far from sexy moves, but they could make the Ravens’ division rivals a lot tougher next season and beyond. Related Articles Ravens take Georgia safety Malaki Starks with 27th pick in NFL draft NFL draft live updates: Browns trade No. 2 to Jaguars, who pick Travis Hunter Ex-Ravens TE Shannon Sharpe is temporarily stepping away from ESPN Ravens mock draft roundup: Here’s what the most accurate experts predict Dueling Ravens 7-round mock draft: 2 views on how to build a team Tim Schwartz, editor: This felt inevitable. The last time the Ravens took a safety in the first round, it turned out better than anybody could’ve expected. Kyle Hamilton now has a fellow first-round pick to roam the secondary alongside him in Starks, who cut his teeth for three years in the nation’s top conference. It’s a pick that everybody from Grok AI to the best mock drafters had on their board, and it makes sense. While Baltimore’s defensive improved from its dreadful start to the 2024 season, it was still a weakness by season’s end. This shores up a shaky unit. Now the Ravens can turn their attention to other positions of need — edge rusher and offensive line at the top of that list — with their two picks on Friday night. Bennett Conlin, editor: Grok AI told us the Ravens would win the Super Bowl if they drafted Starks. Mission accomplished! Starks fits into Baltimore’s identity. He’s a three-time All-American who comes from one of the best SEC teams in recent history, and his athleticism and production explain why he stuck on the Bulldogs’ stout defense. Starks made 77 tackles last season, including four tackles for loss, and he broke up 23 passes over the past three seasons to go with six interceptions. He’s an incredibly reliable tackler (84 or higher PFF tackling grade in each of the past three seasons), making it easy to envision Starks growing into the ideal complement for fellow safety Kyle Hamilton. Grok AI might be hyperbolic in suggesting that Starks will put the Ravens over the hump in their journey toward the Lombardi Trophy, but he certainly doesn’t hurt. He’ll contribute immediately and should develop into a multi-year NFL starter. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

Last season, the Ravens’ pass defense was one of the worst in the NFL, ranking 27th with 238.3 yards passing allowed per game. Thursday night, they took what they hope will be a big step to help address that problem. With the 27th overall pick in the NFL draft, Baltimore selected Georgia safety Malaki Starks. Starks, a 6-foot-1, 197-pound standout for the Bulldogs over the past three seasons, led Georgia in tackles last season (77) to go with four tackles for loss, three pass breakups and an interception. He was even better in 2023, when he was a first-team Associated Press All-American and finalist for the Bronko Nagurski (top defender) and Jim Thorpe (top defensive back) Awards after racking up 52 tackles, seven pass breakups and three interceptions. He also provides the kind of athleticism and versatility Baltimore typically covets. He can play multiple spots in the secondary and has been praised for his football IQ. “He didn’t have the phenomenal year because they moved him around,” ESPN NFL draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. said earlier this month. “[But] when he can do what he does, and just lock into that safety spot with his ball skills, his awareness, the way he tackles.” His addition also bolsters a group that needed it after safety Eddie Jackson was released during last season and safety Marcus Williams struggled mightily before being benched and then released after the season. Other than All-Pro and two-time Pro Bowl selection Kyle Hamilton and Ar’Darius Washington, who earlier this week signed a one-year tender to remain in Baltimore, the Ravens’ only other safeties on the roster include unproven second-year players Sanoussi Kane and Beau Brade, both of whom contributed almost entirely on special teams last season. It also marks just the second time since 2013 that the Ravens used a first-round pick on a safety. The other occasion was in 2022 when they selected Hamilton 14th overall out of Notre Dame. It was not a big surprise they went that route again with Starks, with general manager Eric DeCosta last week all but guaranteeing he would use a pick on a safety. Long a subscriber to the best-player-available mantra, there’s an argument to be made that’s what he got given Starks’ resume, which had some draftniks predicting he would get picked sooner. A three-year starter at Georgia, he played multiple spots in coach Kirby Smart’s man and zone scheme. He should give Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr plenty of options on where to deploy him for Baltimore, where he should have an immediate impact, including on special teams. Said ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller: “Starks is Baltimore’s dream pick.” This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Related Articles Instant analysis of Ravens’ selection of Georgia S Malaki Starks at No. 27 NFL draft live updates: Browns trade No. 2 to Jaguars, who pick Travis Hunter Ex-Ravens TE Shannon Sharpe is temporarily stepping away from ESPN Ravens mock draft roundup: Here’s what the most accurate experts predict Dueling Ravens 7-round mock draft: 2 views on how to build a team View the full article

The 2025 NFL draft kicks off Thursday night in Green Bay, Wisconsin, with Round 1 getting underway at 8 p.m. The event will be televised on ABC, ESPN and NFL Network and streaming on NFL+. Follow along here for live coverage and analysis, with reporters Brian Wacker, Sam Cohn and Taylor Lyons, columnist Mike Preston and editor C.J. Doon tracking all the latest news. View the full article

LAS VEGAS (AP) — Former NFL star Shannon Sharpe said Thursday he is temporarily stepping away from his ESPN duties while he deals with what he called false allegations in a $50 million civil lawsuit filed against him by a woman who alleges he raped and threatened her. Sharpe said in a statement that he would return to ESPN at the start of the NFL preseason. The first preseason game is set for July 31. “I will be devoting this time to my family, and responding and dealing with these false and disruptive allegations set against me,” Sharpe said, adding: “I sincerely appreciate the overwhelming and ongoing support I have received from my family, fans, friends and colleagues.” Attorneys filed the lawsuit Sunday in Clark County, Nevada, for a woman listed in court documents as Jane Doe. The lawsuit also accuses Sharpe of using physical force on her and inflicting emotional distress. The woman first met Sharpe at a gym in Los Angeles in 2023 when she was 20 and a nearly two-year relationship followed, according to court documents. Sharpe, 56, is accused of raping the woman in October 2024 and again in January, the documents said. On Monday, Sharpe had posted a statement from his lawyer on X saying the relationship was consensual and calling the lawsuit a “blatant and cynical attempt to shake down” Sharpe for millions of dollars. Sharpe was a four-time All-Pro tight end who played on two Super Bowl-winning teams with Denver and one with Baltimore over 14 seasons from 1990 to 2003. He was voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011. Sharpe retired as the NFL’s all-time leader among tight ends in receptions (815), yards receiving (10,060) and touchdowns (62). Those records have since been broken. Sharpe has been a staple on TV and social media since retiring. He left FS1’s sports debate show “Undisputed” in 2023 and joined ESPN soon afterward. View the full article

Call it art, science or just plain luck, some have mastered the NFL mock draft. Thousands of analysts, bloggers and enthusiasts predict who will come off the board in the first round every year, and even the elite prognosticators don’t have better than a 50% hit rate when it comes to matching team and player. Identifying the top 32 prospects is one thing. Figuring out where they’ll go is another. This year is more uncertain than others in recent memory. Given the lack of confidence in the order of picks anywhere from the New York Giants’ selection at No. 3 overall all the way to the Philadelphia Eagles at No. 32, it’s hard to get a read on who might be available, let alone a fit for the Ravens. But fans don’t need to scour every mock draft on the internet to get a good sense of who could be wearing purple and black next. According to Huddle Report, which has been tracking the accuracy of mock drafters since 2002, a clear top group has formed. By awarding one point for the correct player placed in Round 1 and two points for every player-team match, the website grades the accuracy of each mock submitted and ranks them accordingly. Using those rankings, here’s what the most accurate mock drafters expect the Ravens to do with the No. 27 overall pick in the first round, which begins Thursday night in Green Bay, Wisconsin: Jason Boris, Times News (ranked No. 1): Georgia safety Malaki Starks Boris is the most accurate mock drafter of the past five years, and it’s not even his day job. According to a recent Washington Post article, he manages recreation grants for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Last year, he correctly predicted 29 of the 32 first-round prospects and matched 15 of those players with the team that selected them for a score of 59 points. His five-year average of 46.2 leads the pack. Starks has been a popular mock draft pick for the Ravens throughout the process, and Boris agrees, noting that the versatile safety can “help shore up a pass defense that finished 31st last season.” Starks, a former five-star recruit, is ranked No. 21 on the consensus big board compiled by Mock Draft Database, so this would be another case of a top prospect falling to Baltimore. Related Articles Dueling Ravens 7-round mock draft: 2 views on how to build a team Ex-Ravens TE Shannon Sharpe accused of rape in $50 million civil lawsuit Ravens’ Kyle Hamilton sees lessons in Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas victories Ravens draft cheat sheet: Picks, team needs, how to watch and more Ravens’ breakout safety Ar’Darius Washington signs tender for 2025 Boris notes, however, that other names on his radar are South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori, Alabama guard Tyler Booker, Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. and Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart. But, he writes, “Starks’ fit and pedigree may be too good to pass up.” Brendan Donahue, Sharp Football Analysis (No. 2): Starks Make that 2-for-2 when it comes to Starks. Donahue previously connected the Ravens to Ohio State guard/tackle Donovan Jackson, Emmanwori, Booker and Stewart and his previous mock drafts, but he aligned closer to consensus with his final predictions. For those looking at the betting markets, Donahue’s best bet is safety to be the first position selected by the Ravens at +400 odds. Baltimore already has All-Pro Kyle Hamilton at safety and recently re-signed restricted free agent Ar’Darius Washington, but Hamilton is due for a likely record-setting contract extension soon and Washington becomes an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. Xavier Cromartie, Fantasy Football Metrics (No. 3): Oregon defensive tackle Derrick Harmon Cromartie explains that his mock drafts are “based upon his draft research and what his sources are communicating to him at this time — and are not based on his personal scouting preferences.” In a twist, he gives the Ravens depth on the defensive line, but for an interesting reason: Harmon is “possibly sliding a bit on medicals.” Oregon defensive lineman Derrick Harmon runs a drill at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis in February. Harmon is ranked No. 24 on the consensus board and is a favorite of many draft analysts. (Michael Conroy/AP) That news only started trickling out during draft week, so it needs to be taken with a healthy grain of salt. But Bryan Broaddus of 105.3 The Fan in Dallas first noted that Harmon had a medical red flag, and NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo later said that the concern is Harmon’s shoulder. Neither provided exact details. “That’s how this thing works,” Garafolo said in an appearance on the PHNX Cardinals podcast. “All of a sudden, if there are two guys and you’ve got a tiebreaker, one of them has clean medicals and the other does not, then we’ll go with the clean medicals sometimes.” Harmon is ranked No. 24 on the consensus board and is a favorite of many draft analysts, so the Ravens would be getting a steal if they are comfortable with his long-term health. Lou Pickney, MockDraftNFL.com (No. 4): Starks Chalk up another one for Starks. Pickney, who has been a draft analyst since 2003, is also on board with Baltimore adding a talented safety to shore up its secondary. “Starks is exceptionally fast, particularly for his size, to the point he feels like a prototype for the ideal modern NFL safety,” he writes. Mike Band, Next Gen Stats/RosterWatch (No. 5): Starks Getting the hint yet? Band has created a mock draft for 21 straight years, and his resume is unassailable. He’s ranked fifth in overall accuracy among 75 draft experts over the past five years, including a second-place finish among 172 experts last year. In 2009, he had the most accurate mock on record. Each year, Band releases a draft cheat sheet projecting each team’s first-round big board based on predraft interest, team needs and organizational philosophies. This year, he ranks the Ravens’ board as follows: Georgia S Malaki Starks Michigan DT Kenneth Grant Oregon DT Derrick Harmon North Dakota State OT/G Grey Zabel Boston College EDGE Donovan Ezeiruaku Alabama G Tyler Booker Ohio State WR Emeka Egbuka South Carolina S Nick Emmanwori Michigan CB Will Johnson So in this scenario, the Ravens get their perceived top prospect on their board. Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune (No. 6): Alabama guard Tyler Booker The Ravens could certainly use help at guard, where Andrew Vorhees and Daniel Faalele are currently projected as starters. According to Brown, “everything about Booker screams Ravens.” Baltimore has long coveted Alabama prospects, dating to former Crimson Tide star Ozzie Newsome’s tenure as general manager before Eric DeCosta took over in 2019. In addition to his college pedigree, Brown notes Booker’s “size, brute strength and enough functional athleticism to dominate in the run game” as reasons for Baltimore’s interest. Booker’s athletic testing ranked poorly among offensive linemen, but the Ravens notably selected Oklahoma tackle Orlando Brown Jr. in the third round in 2018 after a historically bad combine performance and he became a four-time Pro Bowl selection. Booker, who is ranked No. 29 on the consensus board, is beloved by scouts for his leadership, physicality and durability and could be picked much earlier in the first round. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

The NFL draft kicks off Thursday in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and with the Ravens holding 11 selections this year, general manager Eric DeCosta will be busy. Baltimore’s first-round pick won’t come until No. 27, and with just three picks among the first 128 this year, it will be imperative that they find at least one or two immediate contributors in the middle rounds to round out a roster that is otherwise expected to contend for a Super Bowl. The most buzz-worthy pick, though, could come on Day 3 if the Ravens select a kicker with the status of Justin Tucker uncertain as he is investigated for sexual misconduct allegations by several massage therapists. There are also plenty of other needs, including at edge rusher, cornerback, safety, offensive and defensive line and linebacker. Using draft rankings and projections, Pro Football Focus’ simulator and taking into consideration Baltimore’s needs, Baltimore Sun Ravens reporter Brian Wacker and editor C.J. Doon played the role of general manager and picked their own rookie class. Here’s who they took: Brian Wacker’s picks No. 27 (Round 1): Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M The Ravens’ biggest needs are at edge rusher, cornerback, safety and offensive line. Even though Stewart had only 4 1/2 career sacks for the Aggies, the belief is the talent is there to be an impactful player, and the Ravens catch a break with the Senior Bowl and scouting combine standout falling to them. Also considered: Oregon DT Derrick Harmon, Alabama G Tyler Booker, Alabama LB Jihaad Campbell No. 59 (Round 2): Shavon Revel Jr., CB, East Carolina A likely first-round pick if not for a torn ACL last September, Revel would give Baltimore a much-needed player who could contribute immediately at a position that has little in the way of depth. At 6-2, 220 pounds, he is the type of athletic, physical cornerback the Ravens covet and can step in on the outside opposite Nate Wiggins. Also considered: Notre Dame S Xavier Watts, Ohio State EDGE JT Tuimoloau, Texas DT Alfred Collins No. 91 (Round 3): Emery Jones, G/T, LSU Though Baltimore re-signed left tackle Ronnie Stanley and Andrew Vorhees is likely to regain his starting spot at left guard, there’s a need to add depth. Jones was a three-year starter at right tackle but could project inside and is the kind of raw prospect with a wide frame and long arms the Ravens would love to develop. Also considered: Kansas State CB Jacob Parrish, William & Mary OT Charles Grant, Oklahoma ILB Danny Stutsman Georgia linebacker Smael Mondon lines up against Alabama in 2024. Despite his size, he could develop into a starter for Baltimore. (AP Photo/Vasha Hunt) No. 129 (Round 4): Smael Mondon Jr., LB, Georgia Though John Harbaugh said that he expects Trenton Simpson to start alongside Roquan Smith, there’s also a lack of depth with the free agent departures of Malik Harrison, Chris Board and Kristian Welch. Mondon, a former safety, is small (6-2, 224 pounds) but fast and athletic and projects as a “cleanup and cover” weak side linebacker, one AFC scout said in his NFL draft profile. Also considered: Oregon LB Jeffrey Bassa, Mississippi LB Chris Paul Jr., Ohio State S Lathan Ransom No. 136 (Round 4): Ty Hamilton, DT, Ohio State With a deep defensive line class, the Ravens bolster their front with much-needed depth. The 6-3, 299-pound Hamilton is undersized for the interior but quick off the line, which should allow him to disrupt the gaps. Also considered: Maryland WR Tai Felton, Penn State S Jaylen Reed, Virginia Tech DT Aeneas Peebles Related Articles Ex-Ravens TE Shannon Sharpe accused of rape in $50 million civil lawsuit Ravens’ Kyle Hamilton sees lessons in Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas victories Ravens draft cheat sheet: Picks, team needs, how to watch and more Ravens’ breakout safety Ar’Darius Washington signs tender for 2025 Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton ‘not in a big rush’ for contract extension No. 176 (Round 5): Malachi Moore, S, Alabama Moore played deep safety, in the box and in the slot for the Crimson Tide. The Ravens love that kind of versatility, and while he’s on the smaller side at 5-11, 196 pounds, Moore led Alabama in pass breakups (eight) and was a captain each of the past two seasons. With only starters Kyle Hamilton and Ar’Darius Washington and second-year players Sanoussi Kane and Beau Brade on the roster, there’s also a need. Also considered: Virginia S Jonas Sanker, Central Arkansas EDGE David Walker, Michigan OT Myles Hinton No. 183 (Round 6): Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson, OT, Florida At 6-7 and 316 pounds with long arms, Crenshaw-Dickson has the requisite size. He also has experience (46 starts), played both tackle spots for the Gators, and with some polish could go from solid backup to potential starter one day. Also considered: Virginia Tech WR Jaylin Lane, Illinois WR Pat Bryant, Notre Dame LB Jack Kiser No. 203 (Round 6): Ryan Fitzgerald, K, Florida State The Ravens have never drafted a kicker, but with the uncertainty surrounding Tucker and the NFL’s investigation, senior special teams coach Randy Brown has been checking out kickers. Fitzgerald, who worked out for the Ravens, made 32 of 34 field goal attempts the past two seasons and has a strong leg. Also considered: Clemson TE Jake Briningstool, Tennessee DT Elijah Simmons, UCLA LB Kain Medrano The bench celebrates as North Carolina defensive back Alijah Huzzie returns a punt for a touchdown against Georgia Tech in 2024. Huzzie could contribute on special teams and in the slot. (AP Photo/Chris Seward) No. 210 (Round 6): Alijah Huzzie, CB, North Carolina DeCosta is fond of saying that he can never have enough cornerbacks, so don’t be surprised if the Ravens add a couple via the draft this year. Huzzie played six years, first at East Tennessee State then for the Tar Heels, and is the kind of physical, athletic player who could contribute on special teams (two punt return touchdowns) and in the slot after leading North Carolina in pass breakups (eight) and racking up 5 1/2 tackles for loss. Also considered: Miami K Andres Borregales, Florida LB Shemar James, Texas Tech TE Jalin Conyers No. 212 (Round 6): Max Brosmer, QB, Minnesota Last year’s sixth-round pick Devin Leary hasn’t yet shown that he can be a potential backup, so he gets some competition with Brosmer, who doesn’t have a big arm but showed decent accuracy in setting a school record with 268 completions on 403 attempts (66.5%). Also considered: Pittsburgh OT Branson Taylor, Boston College DT Cam Horsley, Miami EDGE Tyler Baron No. 243 (Round 7): Efton Chism III, WR, Eastern Washington Chism is small (5-10, 195 pounds) and comes from a small school. But he was also productive, broke Cooper Kupp’s FCS record for most consecutive games with a catch with 53 and was the team’s main returner, something Harbaugh said he would like to add. Chism checks off a lot of boxes as a late flier or priority free agent. Also considered: Navy S Rayuan Lane III, North Carolina G Willie Lampkin, Miami DT Simeon Barrow Jr. C.J. Doon’s picks No. 27 (Round 1): Nic Scourton, EDGE, Texas A&M With Kyle Van Noy having just turned 34 and Odafe Oweh mentioned as a possible trade candidate entering the final year of his rookie deal, edge rusher is perhaps the weakest spot on an otherwise stacked roster. Scourton has been overlooked in this draft class despite productive seasons against Big Ten (10 sacks at Purdue in 2023) and SEC competition (team-leading 14 tackles for loss, five sacks in 2024). The 6-3, 257-pound prospect plays with force, has a deep bag of moves and won’t turn 21 until August. Also considered: South Carolina S Nick Emmanwori, Ohio State G/T Donovan Jackson, Ole Miss CB Trey Amos South Carolina defensive lineman T.J. Sanders runs a drill during the Senior Bowl in January. Sanders would provide needed depth for Baltimore. (AP Photo/Butch Dill) No. 59 (Round 2): T.J. Sanders, DT, South Carolina Nnamdi Madubuike is a star and Travis Jones has blossomed into a reliable starter, but Jones is entering a contract year and there is little depth behind him. The 6-4, 305-pound Sanders has promising length, explosiveness and twitch and can immediately push Broderick Washington for snaps while developing into a more well-rounded player. Also considered: Minnesota OT Aireontae Ersery, Miami TE Elijah Arroyo, Iowa State CB Darien Porter No. 91 (Round 3): Jacob Parrish, CB, Kansas State The 5-10, 191-pound Parrish is on the smaller side for the position (8th percentile height, 27th percentile weight, per MockDraftable), but he plays a big game. The former high school running back and track star (4.35-second 40-yard dash) has experience at slot and outside corner and the athletic tools to get on the field quickly in Baltimore. Also considered: Ohio State S Lathan Ransom, William & Mary OT Charles Grant, TCU WR Savion Williams TRADE: No. 125 (Round 4, via LA Chargers): Miles Frazier, G/T, LSU It’s happening, folks. In this mock scenario, the Ravens trade tight end Mark Andrews to the Chargers for a fourth-round pick, reuniting the franchise’s all-time touchdowns leader with his former offensive coordinator Greg Roman. With Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar also playing on the last year of their deals, this fake GM made the tough decision to get something in return for Andrews now before he hits free agency. With the pick, the Ravens add a potential starting guard in Frazier, who also has experience at left tackle dating to his time at Florida International. He did not allow a sack in the final 20 games of his career, according to PFF. Also considered: Oregon LB Jeffrey Bassa, Oregon WR Tez Johnson, Virginia Tech DT Aeneas Peebles No. 129 (Round 4): Jaylen Reed, S, Penn State With Washington officially back on the roster after signing his restricted free agent tender, the need for a safety is lessened. But Washington will hit unrestricted free agency next year, and backups Brade and Kane are still unproven. The 6-foot, 211-pound Reed led the Nittany Lions in tackles (98) and interceptions (three) this past season, but he’ll have to improve his coverage skills and cut down on mistakes to become a starter. Also considered: Georgia G Dylan Fairchild, Clemson LB Barrett Carter, Georgia LB Smael Mondon Jr. Notre Dame tight end Mitchell Evans carries the ball during the College Football Playoff national championship game against Ohio State in January. Evans has the tools to become a potential Mark Andrews replacement. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman) No. 136 (Round 4): Mitchell Evans, TE, Notre Dame With Andrews gone, the Ravens need another young tight end to develop. The 6-5, 253-pound Evans has strong hands, which he flashed on some acrobatic catches and is effective at finding soft spots in zone coverage. He suffered a season-ending knee injury in 2023 and isn’t an explosive athlete, but his reliability as a pass catcher and in-line blocker gives him a high floor. Also considered: Virginia Tech EDGE Antwaun Powell-Ryland, Illinois WR Pat Bryant, Western Michigan CB Bilhal Kone No. 176 (Round 5): Cody Simon, LB, Ohio State Adding depth at linebacker is a must, and there are some good options on Day 3. The 6-2, 232-pound Simon emerged as a leader for the national champion Buckeyes, receiving the “Block O” jersey and being voted team captain. He led the team with 112 tackles in 2024 and stepped up in big games, earning defensive Most Valuable Player honors of the Rose Bowl and national championship game. Also considered: Oregon OT Ajani Cornelius, Alabama DT Tim Smith, Florida WR Elijhah Badger No. 183 (Round 6): Rylie Mills, DT, Notre Dame The Ravens would be smart to double-dip on the defensive line in this draft. Baltimore will have to be comfortable with Mills’ medicals after he suffered a season-ending right knee injury in the College Football Playoff, but the 6-5, 296-pound lineman has the size, heavy hands and high motor to compete for snaps when healthy. He led the Fighting Irish in sacks (7 1/2) and tackles for loss (8 1/2) in 2024. Also considered: South Carolina DT Tonka Hemingway, Kansas OT Bryce Cabeldue, Florida CB Jason Marshall Jr. TRADE No. 188 (Round 6, via Tennessee): Zah Frazier, CB, UTSA With the Ravens having few glaring needs to fill on their roster, it seems unlikely that they’ll make all of their late-round selections. In this scenario, they trade pick Nos. 203 and 210 to Tennessee to move up and select Frazier, a 25-year-old with only one season of starting experience in the FBS who has intriguing tools. His combination of length (80 1/8-inch wingspan, 95th percentile), speed (4.36-second 40-yard dash) and production (six interceptions in 2024) is worth betting on. Also considered: South Carolina CB O’Donnell Fortune, Auburn WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith, Rutgers RB Kyle Monangai No. 212 (Round 6): Jimmy Horn Jr., WR/KR, Colorado Harbaugh gets his returner. The 5-8, 174-pound Horn has the speed (ran a combine-best 19.81 mph during the gauntlet drill) and shiftiness to earn touches on offense and provide some juice in the return game. He lacks size and strength, but the South Florida transfer averaged 21.1 yards as a kick returner and 6.4 yards as a punt returner in his career. Also considered: North Dakota State QB Cam Miller, Texas C Jake Majors, Georgia S Dan Jackson No. 243 (Round 7): Maddux Trujillo, K, Temple If the Ravens decide to take a kicker, this feels like the spot to do it. Trujillo (pronounced TRUH-hee-YO) became just the third player in NCAA history to record two 60-plus-yard field goals in the same season, including a 64-yarder that set the Lincoln Financial Field record. The Austin Peay transfer went 16-for-22 (72.7%) with the Owls. Also considered: Cincinnati RB Corey Kiner, UNLV WR Ricky White, Fresno State S Dean Clark Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A young woman who says she was raped and threatened by retired NFL player Shannon Sharpe during a “rocky consensual relationship” has filed a civil lawsuit against him seeking $50 million in damages. Attorneys filed the lawsuit Sunday in Clark County, Nevada, for a woman listed in court documents as Jane Doe. The lawsuit also accuses Sharpe of using physical force on her and inflicting emotional distress. The woman first met Sharpe at a gym in Los Angeles in 2023 when she was 20 and a nearly two-year relationship followed, according to court documents. Sharpe, 56, is accused of raping the woman in October 2024 and again in January, court documents said. Sharpe on Monday posted a statement from his lawyer on X saying the relationship was consensual and calling the lawsuit a “blatant and cynical attempt to shake down” Sharpe for millions of dollars. “It is filled with lies, distortions, and misrepresentations — and it will not succeed,” Lanny J. Davis said in the statement posted by Sharpe. Sharpe is accused of becoming increasingly verbally abusive, controlling and violent over time, once threatening to kill her and recording their sexual encounters without consent, according to the complaint. “Sharpe flew into fits of anger when Plaintiff noted his infidelity to their relationship, or called him out about his extraneous activities,” the lawsuit said. “Sharpe even figured out how to get into Doe’s apartment complex without her permission.” Sharpe was a four-time All-Pro tight end who played on two Super Bowl champions with Denver and another with Baltimore over 14 seasons from 1990 to 2003. He was voted into the Hall of Fame in 2011. Sharpe retired as the NFL’s all-time leader among tight ends in receptions (815), yards receiving (10,060) and touchdowns (62). Those records have since been broken. Sharpe has been a staple on TV and social media since retiring. He left FS1’s sports debate show “Undisputed” in 2023 and joined ESPN soon afterward. View the full article

Golf is never too far from Kyle Hamilton. The Ravens safety spent part of his offseason playing venerable Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill and Spanish Bay, along with the exclusive Cypress Point Club and architectural gem Pasatiempo, on an epic buddies trip with three high school friends. Then he attended the Masters for the first time and was in the crowd during the final round when Rory McIlroy completed the career Grand Slam with a wild and historic playoff victory over Justin Rose. And last week, Hamilton watched on television as Justin Thomas set a course record with a 10-under 61 in the opening round of the RBC Heritage only to squander a one-shot lead with three holes remaining before a birdie on the first hole of sudden death finally ended a three-year winless drought. Unsurprisingly, there was a lesson to be extrapolated from it all for Baltimore’s dynamic fourth-year standout who has already been an All-Pro, selected to two Pro Bowls and is the centerpiece of the Ravens’ defense. “It’s kind of synonymous with our sport,” Hamilton said Monday, the first day of the Ravens’ offseason workout program. “You don’t really want to compare yourself to others, but when you put yourself behind the 8-ball, and now you got to kind of see where everybody else is at and know what you have to do to get in the playoffs and ultimately win the Super Bowl. “Justin Thomas came out and tied the course record and didn’t play amazing the final three days but ended up winning the tournament, so you kind of put yourself at an advantage if you start off hot. Those games count for the same amount of wins and losses at the end of the season.” A hot start, of course, is not what the Ravens have gotten off to each of the past three seasons. In 2022, they split their first six games before winning six of their next seven. Then quarterback Lamar Jackson suffered what ended up being a season-ending knee injury, and that was that, with any hopes of Jackson’s return and a deep postseason run dashed by a bumbling wild-card loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. In 2023, the Ravens were a modest 3-2 over their first five games after a couple of mistake-filled losses before tearing through their remaining opponents to finish with the NFL’s best record (13-4) during the regular season. But again they fell flat when it mattered most with a clumsy 17-10 loss at home in the AFC championship game to the eventual Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. Then last season, they dropped their first two games — including one to the hapless Las Vegas Raiders — and were just 8-5 and two games back of the AFC North-leading Pittsburgh Steelers with a month to go in the regular season. The Ravens won four in a row to win the division, but fell short of the Super Bowl again, losing on the road to the Buffalo Bills in the divisional round of the playoffs. In their own ways, McIlroy and Thomas likewise starred while also faltering on their sport’s biggest stages. After winning four majors in his first six years on tour — including three-fourths of the career Grand Slam — McIlroy inexplicably went 10 years without another, agonizingly finishing second four times to go with six more top-five finishes. Finally, he got the one that had gotten away all those tries and all it took was overcoming two confounding double bogeys in the final four holes of an otherwise terrific first round, bouncing back from losing a two-shot lead on the opening hole of the final round and recovering from having squandered a one-shot lead with a single hole to play in regulation. Rory McIlroy reacts after winning the Masters in a sudden-death playoff against Justin Rose. (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP) Thomas’ plight was less dramatic, but significant. Once the top-ranked player in the world, the three years between victories was the longest stretch of a decorated career that includes two PGA Championship trophies and a slew of more than 20 other titles from around the world. “It’s so hard to stay patient,” McIlroy told reporters after his long-awaited Masters triumph. “It’s so hard to keep coming back every year and trying your best and not being able to get it done. “There was points on the back nine today I thought, ‘Have I let this slip again?’ But again, I responded with some clutch shots when I needed to.” Related Articles Ravens draft cheat sheet: Picks, team needs, how to watch and more Ravens’ breakout safety Ar’Darius Washington signs tender for 2025 Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton ‘not in a big rush’ for contract extension Ravens QB Lamar Jackson backs Park Heights thoroughbred apprenticeship READER POLL: What is the biggest reason for the Orioles’ struggles? Entering what is just his fourth year in the NFL, Hamilton has no such scar tissue, but that doesn’t quench the thirst of expectation, particularly with Baltimore having faltered when the stakes are at their highest. Not for a player whom the Ravens drafted 14th overall out of Notre Dame in 2022 and one who is likely to become the league’s highest-paid player at his position. Not for someone who sees the parallels between golf and football and knows that the Ravens can’t afford a sluggish start — including in the secondary, as was the case last season — to get to where they haven’t yet been: a Super Bowl. “Last year, didn’t get off to a great start … but we found our way at the end of the season,” he said. “Who knows if we started off well, we would’ve had a chance at the [No.] 1 seed and stuff like that. “So, it’s important for us this year to … I think it’s important that we’ve gone through that and understand how hard it is to climb out of that hole and how we can change that this year.” Now the only question is if the Ravens will finally find the same success McIlroy and Thomas did. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The NFL draft is here. After going 12-5, winning a second straight AFC North title and advancing to the divisional round, the Ravens are poised to add another large rookie class. It all begins Thursday night with the first round in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Before the Ravens are on the clock, here’s everything you need to know: What time is the draft, and how can I watch? The 2025 NFL draft kicks off in Green Bay with the first round Thursday at 8 p.m., followed by Rounds 2-3 on Friday at 7 p.m. and Rounds 4-7 on Saturday at noon. Live coverage will be on ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, NFL Network, NFL+ and ESPN Deportes. What is the draft order? Here is the order of picks for the first round: Tennessee Titans (3-14 in 2024) Cleveland Browns (3-14) New York Giants (3-14) New England Patriots (4-13) Jacksonville Jaguars (4-13) Las Vegas Raiders (4-13) New York Jets (5-12) Carolina Panthers (5-12) New Orleans Saints (5-12) Chicago Bears (5-12) San Francisco 49ers (6-11) Dallas Cowboys (7-10) Miami Dolphins (8-9) Indianapolis Colts (8-9) Atlanta Falcons (8-9) Arizona Cardinals (8-9) Cincinnati Bengals (9-8) Seattle Seahawks (10-7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7) Denver Broncos (10-7) Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) Green Bay Packers (11-6) Minnesota Vikings (14-3) Houston Texans (10-7) Los Angeles Rams (10-7) Ravens (12-5) Detroit Lions (15-2) Washington Commanders (12-5) Buffalo Bills (13-4) Kansas City Chiefs (15-2) Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) How many picks do the Ravens have? The Ravens have 11 total selections, including four compensatory picks — the maximum number awarded — as a result of losing free agents Patrick Queen, John Simpson, Geno Stone and Kevin Zeitler, among others, last offseason. Baltimore swapped fifth- and sixth-round picks with the Carolina Panthers in the midseason trade for wide receiver Diontae Johnson. No. 27 (first round) No. 59 (second) No. 91 (third) No. 129 (fourth) No. 136 (fourth; compensatory) No. 176 (fifth; compensatory) No. 183 (sixth; via Carolina Panthers) No. 203 (sixth) No. 210 (sixth; compensatory) No. 212 (sixth; compensatory) No. 243 (seventh) What are the Ravens’ biggest needs? Here’s a deeper look at the positions the Ravens are most likely to fill in the draft, including edge rusher, cornerback, safety, defensive line, offensive line and linebacker. Related Articles Ravens’ Kyle Hamilton sees lessons in Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas victories Ravens’ breakout safety Ar’Darius Washington signs tender for 2025 Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton ‘not in a big rush’ for contract extension Ravens QB Lamar Jackson backs Park Heights thoroughbred apprenticeship READER POLL: What is the biggest reason for the Orioles’ struggles? What did the Ravens do in free agency? Here’s a rundown of notable signings and departures: Re-signed: LT Ronnie Stanley, FB Patrick Ricard, WR Tylan Wallace, G Ben Cleveland Signed: WR DeAndre Hopkins, CB Chidobe Awuzie, LB Jake Hummel, QB Cooper Rush Departed: G Patrick Mekari (Jaguars), DL Michael Pierce (retiring), CB Brandon Stephens (Jets), LB Malik Harrison (Steelers), LB Chris Board (Giants), OT Josh Jones (Seahawks), QB Josh Johnson (Commanders), S Marcus Williams (released), CB Arthur Maulet (released) Free agents: CB Tre’Davious White, DL Brent Urban, WR Diontae Johnson, WR Nelson Agholor Restricted free agent: S Ar’Darius Washington Who are some of the top prospects the Ravens could target in the first round? Rankings from The Athletic’s consensus big board, which combines rankings from a wide range of experts. Edge rusher Mike Green, Marshall (No. 14 overall) Mykel Williams, Georgia (No. 14) Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M (No. 19) James Pearce Jr., Tennessee (No. 21) Donovan Ezeiruaku, Boston College (No. 22) Nic Scourton, Texas A&M (No. 40) Cornerback Will Johnson, Michigan (No. 8) Jahdae Barron, Texas (No. 13) Maxwell Hairston, Kentucky (No. 35) Trey Amos, Ole Miss (No. 36) Azareye’h Thomas, Florida State (No. 42) Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame (No. 47) Shavon Revel Jr., East Carolina (No. 49) Safety Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina (No. 23) Malaki Starks, Georgia (No. 28) Xavier Watts, Notre Dame (No. 50) Kevin Winston Jr., Penn State (No. 56) Defensive line Mason Graham, Michigan (No. 4) Walter Nolen, Ole Miss (No. 18) Kenneth Grant, Michigan (No. 29) Derrick Harmon, Oregon (No. 30) Tyleik Williams, Ohio State (No. 48) Darius Alexander, Toledo (No. 53) T.J. Sanders, South Carolina (No. 54) Linebacker Jalon Walker, Georgia (No. 7) Jihaad Campbell, Alabama (No. 16) Carson Schwesinger, UCLA (No. 43) Offensive line Armand Membou, Missouri (No. 6) Will Campbell, LSU (No. 10) Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas (No. 17) Josh Simmons, Ohio State (No. 26) Tyler Booker, Alabama (No. 31) Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon (No. 33) Grey Zabel, North Dakota State (No. 34) Donovan Jackson, Ohio State (No. 38) Wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona (No. 9) Matthew Golden, Texas (No. 20) Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State (No. 24) Luther Burden III, Missouri (No. 25) Jayden Higgins, Iowa State (No. 44) Predraft visits Here is a look at players who have been confirmed to have or reportedly visited with Baltimore. Who are the most notable prospects with ties to Baltimore and Maryland? Hat tip to “The Beast” draft guide from The Athletic’s Dane Brugler. Tennessee wide receiver Dont’e Thornton Jr. (Baltimore/Mount Saint Joseph) Penn State safety Kevin Winston Jr. (Columbia/DeMatha Catholic) Virginia Tech cornerback Dorian Strong (Upper Marlboro/Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High) Kentucky linebacker Jamon Dumas-Johnson (Hyattsville/St. Frances) Oregon wide receiver Traeshon Holden (St. Frances) Navy safety Rayuan Lane III (Jessup/Gilman) Maryland safety Dante Trader Jr. (McDonogh) Maryland wide receiver Kaden Prather (Montgomery Village/Northwest High) Maryland wide receiver Tai Felton Maryland defensive lineman Jordan Phillips Maryland linebacker Ruben Hyppolite II Ohio State offensive tackle Josh Simmons (father, Nelson, played for Orioles in 1987) Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson (uncle, Alphonso Harris, played running back at Morgan State) Washington State wide receiver Kyle Williams (born in Baltimore before family moved to Southern California) Michigan offensive tackle Myles Hinton (father, Chris, played offensive tackle for Baltimore Colts) LSU guard Garrett Dellinger (born in Maryland before family moved to Michigan; mother, Stephanie, was the 1992 Gatorade Basketball Player of the Year in Maryland) South Carolina defensive tackle DeAndre Jules (Germantown/Northwest) Towson tight end Carter Runyon Morgan State defensive tackle Elijah Williams Who are the Ravens’ most recent first-round picks? 2024: Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins, No. 30 overall 2023: Boston College wide receiver Zay Flowers, No. 22 2022: Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton, No. 14 2022: Iowa center Tyler Linderbaum, No. 25 2021: Minnesota wide receiver Rashod Bateman, No. 27 2020: LSU linebacker Patrick Queen, No. 28 2019: Oklahoma wide receiver Marquise Brown, No. 25 2018: South Carolina tight end Hayden Hurst, No. 25 2018: Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson, No. 32 2017: Alabama cornerback Marlon Humphrey, No. 16 2016: Notre Dame left tackle Ronnie Stanley, No. 6 Readers respond We asked readers to pick which position the Ravens should target with their first-round draft pick. Edge rusher was the most popular choice (40%), followed by cornerback (15%) and safety (15%). Latest mock drafts NFL mock draft: Ravens beat writer Brian Wacker predicts first round NFL mock draft (Version 5.0): 3-round projections to fill final team needs Ravens 7-round mock draft: How 11 picks could fill out elite roster NFL mock draft (Version 4.0): How free agency changes the first round More Ravens draft coverage Mike Preston: Ravens’ draft haul needs to improve defense | COMMENTARY How will Ravens attack draft, roster? 10 takeaways from ‘liars’ luncheon’ Who will the Ravens pick in the 2025 NFL draft? Grok AI weighs in. What will the Ravens do in the draft? Adam Schefter, experts weigh in. When might Baltimore host the NFL draft? It could be a while. 5 things we learned about the Ravens at the NFL scouting combine Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

Safety Ar’Darius Washington is staying with the Ravens. Washington has signed a one-year restricted free agent tender, the team announced Monday. The move means he will remain with the Ravens through at least the 2025 season. It was also not a surprise. Washington’s return became all but certain when he did not sign an offer sheet from another team by Friday’s deadline, clearing the way for him to remain with Baltimore on a one-year deal worth $3.3 million. He received a right-of-first-refusal tender from the Ravens last month. But that tender offer was a minor gamble, too. Had Washington signed an offer sheet with another team and the Ravens chose not to match it, they would get nothing in return. But if they used a second-round tender, it would have limited interest from other teams in the former undrafted free agent because the Ravens would have received a second-round draft pick in return. It also would have been costlier to Baltimore at $5.3 million. Now, Washington will look to build on what was a breakout season. After playing only eight games his first three years in Baltimore, Washington took over for Marcus Williams after Williams was benched halfway through the season and helped stabilize a struggling pass defense. In 17 games (10 starts), Washington had two interceptions, 64 tackles, a forced fumble and a sack while playing alongside safety Kyle Hamilton and helping Baltimore become one of the NFL’s best defenses in the second half of the season. “Ar’Darius is a great example of a guy who got a chance and ran with it,” general manager Eric DeCosta said in January. “This year, he stayed healthy, and he became that guy that we saw in college. He’s tough, physical, a playmaker, instinctive, smart, a leader. “He’s a great story. Just another one of these undrafted guys over the years that we’ve had that has developed into being a really good football player.” Washington rejoins a group that includes Hamilton and second-year players Sanoussi Kane and Beau Brade, but the Ravens are expected to add to the position during this year’s draft, which begins Thursday night. “This is a really nice pool of players to pick from,” DeCosta said of the safeties in this year’s class. “I think we definitely will look at that.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Related Articles Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton ‘not in a big rush’ for contract extension Ravens QB Lamar Jackson backs Park Heights thoroughbred apprenticeship READER POLL: What is the biggest reason for the Orioles’ struggles? Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: What will team do in NFL draft? | COMMENTARY 10 sleepers in 2025 NFL draft who Ravens fans should know View the full article

Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton spent part of his offseason playing golf with three high school friends at Pebble Beach and attending his first Masters. Center Tyler Linderbaum mostly stayed in the area working out, save for his own buddies’ golf trip to Georgia. Monday, though, they were back to work in Owings Mills for the first day of Baltimore’s offseason workout program. The start of the season is still more than four months away. A more immediate deadline looms, though, with May 1 marking when Baltimore must decide whether to pick up the fifth-year options on two of their most important players. Declining the option for either would make them free agents after next season if an extension isn’t reached before then, though that is not likely. “Haven’t had too many talks about it,” Hamilton said when asked if he’s spoken with general manager Eric DeCosta about a possible contract extension. “I’m not in a big rush, so if it happens, it happens. And if it happens this offseason, cool.” Hamilton, like Linderbaum, is entering the final year of his rookie deal. DeCosta, meanwhile, has said little so far. “There’s really no updates on that front,” he said last week. “I think the last couple of years I’ve waited to announce that and handle that, and I think that’s going to be the case again this year.” With the NFL draft kicking off Thursday, it’s possible the Ravens could announce a deal for one or both ahead of the draft, or shortly thereafter, as they did last year in announcing their decision to pick up outside linebacker Odafe Oweh’s fifth-year option. Whatever Baltimore decides, neither player appears to be particularly fretful about it. Related Articles Ravens’ breakout safety Ar’Darius Washington signs tender for 2025 Ravens QB Lamar Jackson backs Park Heights thoroughbred apprenticeship READER POLL: What is the biggest reason for the Orioles’ struggles? Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: What will team do in NFL draft? | COMMENTARY 10 sleepers in 2025 NFL draft who Ravens fans should know “No conversations yet,” Linderbaum said. “I’m just focused on becoming as good a football player as I can be for this team, just coming in here every day and put my best foot forward and let all the other things take care of itself.” With each having been selected to two Pro Bowls, their fifth-year options would be costly. Picking up Hamilton’s would cost $18.6 million; Linderbaum’s $23.4 million. Contract extensions also won’t come cheap. On Monday, Pro Bowl center Cam Jurgens agreed to a four-year extension with the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles worth a reported $68 million, which makes him the second-highest paid player at his position behind Kansas City Chiefs All-Pro Creed Humphrey. Last offseason, Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety Antoine Winfield Jr. signed a four-year, $81 million extension to make him the highest-paid player at his position. Baltimore’s ability to rework quarterback Lamar Jackson’s contract is also a factor. While Jackson accounts for a $43.5 million salary cap hit this year, that number is currently slated to jump to $74.5 million for 2026 and 2027. Either way, expect Hamilton to likely reset the safety market and Linderbaum to be handsomely paid as well. Hamilton, whom the Ravens selected 14th overall out of Notre Dame in 2022, has been the lynchpin to one of the best defenses in the NFL over the past three seasons, and his versatility to play all over the field makes him a unique talent. He was also a first-team All-Pro in 2023 and a second-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection last season after being the only safety with at least 100 tackles, an interception, two sacks and two forced fumbles. “No conversations yet,” center Tyler Linderbaum said when asked if he'd had any contract negotiations with the Ravens. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Linderbaum, whom Baltimore drafted 25th overall out of Iowa three years ago, was also a Pro Bowl selection last season. He also anchored a line that helped clear the way for an offense that led the NFL in yards per game (426.5), yards per play (6.8), red zone scoring (73.97%) and became the first to rack up at least 4,000 yards passing and more than 3,000 yards rushing in the same season. The Ravens have been clear that they’d like to keep both players for the long term. Though Hamilton acknowledged he would like to have clarity about his contract status by the start of the season, neither said they’re concerned about an extension right now. “I just wanna play football and focus on that,” Hamilton said. “But that’s such a hypothetical at this point, I’ll just cross that bridge when I get there.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is further committing to using his connection to the National Thoroughbred League to benefit Baltimore. Jackson, a part-owner of the NTL’s Maryland Colts, is helping launch the Forever Dreamers 8 Scholars program, a fully funded apprenticeship that gives high school seniors in Park Heights a chance to work in Maryland’s thoroughbred industry. A cohort of eight high schoolers (in honor of Jackson’s No. 8) will spend their senior year working various jobs that include horse training, veterinarian duties and sales work, which also has the backing of Gov. Wes Moore and his wife, Dawn. Moore’s Engaging Neighborhoods, Organizations, Unions, Governments and Households (ENOUGH) initiative, which provides resources to communities in hopes of improving the lives of Marylanders experiencing multi-generational poverty, is partnering with Jackson’s Forever Dreamers Foundation to create the pilot apprenticeship. “Lamar Jackson is a generational talent on the field and a model citizen off the field. … This program will provide pathways for young people in Park Heights into pathways associated with the Pimlico Race Course and the Maryland thoroughbred industry,” Gov. Moore said in a news release. Randall Lane, an NTL cofounder, is optimistic the program will create a route for high schoolers to build careers in horse racing. “When they graduate, hopefully a bunch of these local residents will have jobs waiting for them,” Lane told The Baltimore Sun. Jackson joined the NTL, a 10-team thoroughbred racing league entering its third season, as an investor and team owner last year. He wanted his involvement in the league to benefit the Baltimore community, and his foundation aiding with the new apprenticeship program makes good on that goal. Baltimore’s standout signal caller specifically wanted children in the area to feel a stronger connection to both Pimlico and the state’s thoroughbred industry. The two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Award winner will celebrate the launch of the program through a pair of events around the NTL’s Baltimore Cup, which takes place May 10 at Pimlico. On May 9, Jackson will host a fundraiser at The Horse You Came In On Saloon in Fells Point. The event will include a performance by musical artist Jarobi White of “A Tribe Called Quest.” The race on May 10 is being dubbed the Baltimore Community Day, as it will bring thousands of kids from Park Heights to Pimlico for free. At the event, kids will get to pet thoroughbred horses, play games, eat a free meal, watch races and interact with Jackson, among other activities. “It’s going to be a lot of fun for everyone involved,” Jackson said in a news release. “We’re really looking forward to exposing the kids to new things.” Related Articles 150th Preakness Stakes to skip traditional infield concert, feature new ‘Fan Zone’ Pimlico Race Course to retain oval track design, saving Maryland millions; renovations to start in June Preakness Festival to be headlined by downtown concert featuring DJ D-Nice and BSO Maryland’s Snap Decision wins Eclipse Award as North America’s steeplechase champion Jackson spearheaded the idea for a community day, which he often hosts in Florida through his foundation. “This was Lamar,” Lane said. “Lamar said … ‘I want the kids to be able to touch horses.’ Presumably, they live in the shadow of Pimlico and they’ve never touched a horse, seen a horse … hopefully they’ll see why Pimlico is such a special place, and it’s not just a place that they look at from the outside, but it’s a home for them, too.” Jackson’s commitment to NTL comes as the Ravens look to keep the superstar in Baltimore for the extended future. His current contract runs through 2028, and the franchise has discussed extending that deal. ESPN’s Adam Schefter called a desire to keep Jackson in Baltimore longer than 2028 a “no-brainer” for the organization. Count Lane among the people who hope Jackson stays in Baltimore for a while — and not just because of his impact on the football field. “I’ve been so impressed with his purposefulness around making sure this is truly impactful and not just window dressing,” Lane said. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor Bennett Conlin at bconlin@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/BennettConlin. View the full article

It’s only April, but the Orioles hit a new low on Sunday when they lost to the Cincinnati Reds, 24-2, for the franchise’s worst loss since 2007. At 9-12 overall, Baltimore is still in the mix, but it is a far cry from the lofty expectations placed upon a team that made the postseason the past two seasons and features one of the best young cores in MLB. What is the biggest reason for the Orioles’ struggles? After you vote, leave a comment and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. If you cannot see the poll, click here to vote. Related Articles Orioles reset: Charlie Morton knows he must figure things out quickly Orioles’ 24-2 loss, sloppy start validate fear about wasting title window | ANALYSIS By the numbers: 3 revealing stats from the Orioles’ 24-2 loss to the Reds Orioles fall to Reds, 24-2, in team’s biggest loss since 2007 Orioles option Brandon Young to minors after MLB debut, recall reliever The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

Baltimore Sun columnist Mike Preston will answer fans’ questions throughout the Ravens’ offseason. Here’s Preston’s take on a handful of questions from readers: (Editor’s note: Questions have been edited for length and clarity.) There have been three times this offseason in which Eric DeCosta has addressed Mark Andrews’ status and talked about him being a warrior and the contributions he’s made to the team during his time in Baltimore, but he’s never definitively declared “he’ll be in a Ravens uniform for 2025.” Do you believe a draft-day trade is already in the works? Or is this just EDC posturing to see if any team will tempt them enough? — Paul in Orlando Paul, I wouldn’t say a draft-day trade is already in the works, but most opposing teams know Andrews is available if the price is right. It makes sense, especially with young tight ends like Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar waiting to take over and replace Andrews. Likely’s hands are just as good, and he has more ability to juke defenders and gain yards after the catch. Kolar is a big body who helps in the running game, but he showed on occasion last year that he can become a target in the passing game. DeCosta has been honest about Andrews. I’ve written and recorded it several times that the only player I knew in team history who practiced and played harder than Andrews was Hall of Fame middle linebacker Ray Lewis. Andrews is still an integral part of the offense and he is quarterback Lamar Jackson’s favorite target inside the red zone. But if the Ravens can get a good offer, they will make the deal. In the words of former Ravens general manager Ozzie Newsome, “right player, right price.” Sold. Where do you anticipate the Ravens could draft multiple players at the same position? It wouldn’t shock me if we took multiple defensive linemen, multiple secondary players or multiple defensive ends/outside linebackers. — Drew K Drew, multiple players being chosen can happen at almost any position. I am not familiar with the team’s draft board and where they have certain players ranked, but the Ravens have needs in the secondary, linebacker positions and on the defensive line. Certain situations can dictate certain scenarios. You can pick up quality offensive linemen almost anywhere in the draft. Newsome always believed — something he learned from former New England coach Bill Belichick during his time in Cleveland — that a team can never have enough defensive linemen. DeCosta has said the same thing about cornerbacks. Also, there can be a run on positions, especially in the first round. If that happens, some teams opt to pick a player if it doesn’t believe there will be enough quality talent around, and then they double down at that position later in the draft. So yes, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Ravens take multiple players at any position. Columnist Mike Preston writes that the Ravens are limited along the offensive line, shown during training camp last summer. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff file) The Eagles demonstrated what I’ve heard you say before: “You win if your fat guys beat the other team’s fat guys.” Do the Ravens have the right fat guys? — Clarke Clarke, they have the right fat guys, but only if Jackson remains healthy and is the starting quarterback for the entire 2025 season. He makes this offense go. The Ravens are limited along the offensive line, which isn’t strong at pass blocking. In fact, this line has only gotten better athletically as far as running screens and getting blocks downfield in the past two years with Todd Monken as the offensive coordinator. But if the Ravens can’t run the ball, they have Jackson to bail them out. He makes this offensive line better because of his evasiveness and ability to adjust on the fly. With that said, the same thing can be said about Patrick Mahomes in Kansas City, Buffalo’s Josh Allen or Washington’s Jayden Daniels. Related Articles READER POLL: What is the biggest reason for the Orioles’ struggles? 10 sleepers in 2025 NFL draft who Ravens fans should know Mike Preston: Ravens’ draft haul needs to improve defense | COMMENTARY Adam Schefter on possible extension for Ravens’ Lamar Jackson: ‘No-brainer’ READERS RESPOND: Here’s which position fans want Ravens to draft in 1st round If you are asking if the Ravens’ offensive line reminds me in any way of Philadelphia’s as far as being a dominant group, I would say no. Make that a heck no. What do you think about a mini realignment for the 2026 NFL season that involves the Ravens swapping with the Colts? The divisions would look like this: AFC East: Ravens, Bills, Jets, Patriots AFC North: Colts, Browns, Steelers, Bengals AFC South: Dolphins, Jaguars, Titans, Texans AFC West: Chiefs, Chargers, Broncos, Raiders NFC East: Giants, Eagles, Commanders, Panthers NFC South: Cowboys, Falcons, Buccaneers, Saints NFC North: Lions, Vikings, Packers, Bears NFC West: Rams, Seahawks, Cardinals, 49ers — George Sorry, George, no thanks. I like the AFC North the way it is. It’s still one of the best, if not the best, division in the NFL. All the teams are similar as far as relying on strong defenses and good running games. While the Steelers and Browns have struggled recently to find a quarterback, Joe Burrow and Jackson can light it up with Burrow in the air and Jackson as a dual-threat. I like the competition between the Browns’ Myles Garrett and the Steelers’ T.J. Watt as the top two pass rushers in the NFL, and all four cities are easy to travel to for home and away games. In other words, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

The NFL draft is all about finding gems. While top prospects at the biggest schools are easy to identify and get excited about, players who stand out at lesser-known programs can be just as valuable. It’s why scouts have this old adage: Scout the player, not the helmet. The Ravens know a thing or two about that. While many of their draft picks have come from power conference schools, there have been several notable picks from smaller programs, including tight end Isaiah Likely (Coastal Carolina), defensive lineman Zach Sieler (Ferris State), edge rusher Matthew Judon (Grand Valley State), center Ryan Jensen (Colorado State Pueblo), cornerback Asa Jackson (Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo) and linebacker Antwan Barnes (Florida International), to name a few. Which under-the-radar players might general manager Eric DeCosta and the Ravens’ staff identify this year? Here’s a look at some notable draft sleepers who might fit in Baltimore: William & Mary offensive tackle Charles Grant The former wrestler didn’t start playing football until his junior year of high school and was overlooked during the recruiting process, receiving his first scholarship offer from Division II Virginia-Wise before committing to FCS William & Mary. After redshirting during the pandemic-shortened spring 2021 season, he claimed the starting job at left tackle for the Tribe and held it for four seasons, earning first-team All-America honors in his final two while rebuffing offers from FBS programs along the way. The 6-foot-5, 309-pound Grant ended his college career on a high note, becoming the only offensive lineman to be named a finalist for the 2024 Walter Payton Award, which recognizes the top offensive player in the FCS. And while he didn’t get a chance to compete against fellow top prospects at the Senior Bowl because of an injury, his overall body of work, physical traits (including 84th-percentile arm length at 34 3/4 inches) and competitiveness will get him drafted, perhaps as early as the third round. Central Arkansas edge rusher David Walker In high school at Stuttgart High in Arkansas, Walker was a 5-9, 170-pound sophomore before blossoming into a first-team all-state selection playing both defensive line and offense. However, he suffered a torn ACL during his final season and was not ranked in the 2019 recruiting class before signing with Division II Southern Arkansas. After a redshirt season and 2020 pandemic cancellation, he finally got on the field and recorded eight sacks in 11 games before transferring to Central Arkansas. With the Bears, Walker became one of the best defensive players in the FCS, recording 63 tackles for loss and 31 sacks in three seasons. A three-time FCS All-American and three-time conference Defensive Player of the Year, Walker won the 2024 Buck Buchanan Award as the top FCS defensive player. While the 24-year-old lacks ideal length and size at 6-1, 263 pounds with 31 7/8-inch arms, Walker is touted for his bull-rush move, heavy hands and off-the-charts production. He’ll likely be a fourth-round pick. Cal Poly edge rusher Elijah Ponder The former two-star recruit flashed as a redshirt freshman defensive end, returning an interception 75 yards for a touchdown in the 2021 season opener and recording a team-leading eight sacks. He finished his five-year career ranked third in school history with 26 1/2 career sacks, earning first-team All-Big Sky honors in 2023 and 2024. The 6-3, 251-pound Ponder also posted outstanding athletic testing numbers, including a 4.63-second 40-yard dash, 41-inch vertical jump, 11-foot broad jump and 6.99-second three-cone drill. He could carve out a role as a rotational pass rusher as a late Day 3 pick. California safety Craig Woodson runs a drill at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis on Feb. 28. He's started 38 games the past three seasons. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy) California safety Craig Woodson Based on his evaluation, NFL.com draft analyst and former Ravens scout Daniel Jeremiah said that he would take Woodson in the third round. He’s projected to come off the board much later than that, in part because he’s 24 with an average 6-foot, 200-pound frame and a 2021 season-ending knee injury, but there’s a lot to like in his profile. In addition to his speed (4.45-second 40-yard dash) and explosiveness (81st-percentile broad jump at 10-7), analysts say that Woodson reads the field well and doesn’t make mistakes. His overall experience at safety (started 38 games the past three seasons) and on special teams (450 career snaps) would provide instant depth. Related Articles READER POLL: What is the biggest reason for the Orioles’ struggles? Mike Preston’s Ravens mailbag: What will team do in NFL draft? | COMMENTARY Mike Preston: Ravens’ draft haul needs to improve defense | COMMENTARY Adam Schefter on possible extension for Ravens’ Lamar Jackson: ‘No-brainer’ READERS RESPOND: Here’s which position fans want Ravens to draft in 1st round Western Michigan cornerback Bilhal Kone Kone’s story of perseverance is easy to root for, as he moved from a no-star recruit to junior college to Indiana State to Western Michigan — the last stop in part because he wanted the challenge of playing against the toughest opponents on the Broncos’ 2024 schedule (Iowa, Ohio State and Wisconsin). At 6-1, 190 pounds with a 4.43-second 40-yard dash, he has the size and speed to stick with receivers and doesn’t shy away from contact as a run defender (one of only four FBS cornerbacks with 70 tackles or more in 2024). As an early Day 3 pick, he could be a gem. Iowa linebacker Jay Higgins As a two-time All-American and first-team All-Big Ten selection, Higgins might not qualify for the “sleeper” category among college football fans. But because of his below-average size (6 feet, 224 pounds) and athleticism (28th among linebackers at the scouting combine in athleticism score), a lot of NFL teams will pass on him. They could be missing out on a solid player. Higgins led the FBS with 171 tackles in 2023 and followed that up with 124 (including four interceptions) in 2024. He also called the defensive signals for the Hawkeyes and was described as the “ultimate leader” as team captain. With his instincts and experience, he could stick in the NFL as a late Day 3 pick. Sacramento State guard/center Jackson Slater Strength is the calling card for Slater, who was highlighted on Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freaks List” and was one of only five players with at least 30 bench press reps at the NFL scouting combine. As a left guard at Sacramento State, he became the first offensive lineman in school history to earn three first-team all-conference honors and was named a first-team FCS All-American in 2024. The jump in competition could take some adjustment, but Slater has the traits worth betting on as a potential Day 3 pick. Eastern Washington wide receiver Efton Chism III catches a pass before being knocked out of bounds during the East West Shrine Bowl in Arlington, Texas, on Jan. 30. Chism set the FCS record with at least one catch in 53 straight games. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez) Eastern Washington wide receiver Efton Chism III The Ravens have already shown their interest in Chism, bringing him to Baltimore for a predraft visit. Given his background, it’s easy to understand why. The 5-11, 193-pound slot receiver finished his five-year college career with 346 catches for 3,852 yards and 37 touchdowns. While those numbers trail former Eastern Washington star Cooper Kupp’s career marks, Chism broke Kupp’s FCS record by recording at least one catch in 53 straight games. The 23-year-old Chism will have to prove that he can beat NFL-caliber defensive backs at his size, but his staggering production and quick feet might give him a chance to stick on a roster as a late-round flier or undrafted free agent. Temple kicker Maddux Trujillo The Eagles have been playing at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia since 2003, but they don’t own the record for the longest field goal at their own stadium. That belongs to Trujillo, who made a 64-yarder against Utah State this past season that ranks as the eighth longest in NCAA history. Trujillo (pronounced TRUH-hee-YO) became just the third player in NCAA history to record two 60-plus-yard field goals in the same season when he nailed a 60-yarder against UConn. The Austin Peay transfer went 16-for-22 (72.7%) with the Owls after leaving as the Governors’ career leader in field goals made (38) and field goal percentage (.717). His big leg could be attractive to a team potentially looking to replace Justin Tucker. Towson tight end Carter Runyon The Ravens wouldn’t have to look far to add another tight end to their roster. After two seasons at Shenandoah University, Runyon transferred to Towson and became the program’s first Division I All-American at tight end after leading the team in receptions (43), receiving yards (549) and touchdown catches (four) in 2023. The 6-5, 243-pound Runyon posted nearly identical numbers in 2024, helping the Tigers go 7-5. If he makes a roster, he’d become the only active Towson player in the NFL and the first since safety Jordan Dangerfield in 2020. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

During the past two offseasons, the Ravens have loaded up on offensive talent, including running back Derrick Henry and wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. They even added former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush as a backup to starter Lamar Jackson nearly a month ago. That’s all great to appease Jackson and the Ravens’ highly productive offense, but it’s very similar to what Cincinnati did a few years ago with quarterback Joe Burrow. Where did that get the Bengals? They lost to the Los Angeles Rams, 23-20, in Super Bowl LVI and have missed the playoffs each of the past two seasons. That should be a lesson for the Ravens. The NFL is about balance on both sides of the line of scrimmage, and there was no team better in the 2024 season than the Philadelphia Eagles. The Super Bowl champions finished in the top five for run defense, pass coverage and pass rush, per Pro Football Focus, all while complementing the defense with the No. 8 ranked offense that averaged 367.2 yards per game. So, as the Ravens finish up preparations for the three-day draft, which begins Thursday night in Green Bay, Wisconsin, let’s hope they add an infusion of young talent on defense. The Ravens had the NFL’s No. 1 ranked offense, but were No. 10 overall in defense. Here’s the rub: They were next to last in pass defense. That’s great in a shootout, but how about fielding a respectable secondary? Please. Where do the Ravens begin? Oh, they’ve got holes. Coach John Harbaugh can talk about being able to play right now with his current roster, but they can’t win a Super Bowl with this team. The Ravens need linebackers on the inside and pass rushers off the edge. They need run stoppers in the middle with nose tackle Michael Pierce retiring and end Brent Urban, now a free agent, close to turning 34. Fourth-year player Travis Jones can fill some of the void inside, but ends Nnamdi Madubuike and Broderick Washington aren’t the only answers. The Ravens need more bulk and depth. They could also use a rookie cornerback to start opposite second-year player Nate Wiggins, who should be outstanding this season if he works hard in the weight room. They can add another safety who can play with fourth-year performer Kyle Hamilton, whose strength is near the line of scrimmage even though he played well on the back end in 2024. “I do think it’s a good draft class,” Ravens general manager, Eric DeCosta said, referring to the edge rushers. “Now also, if I’m not mistaken, we’ve got our entire outside linebacker core coming back this year, so that’s a great situation for us, because we didn’t lose anybody. So, from that standpoint I think it’s good. “Now again, there are some really talented guys in this draft class, and there are guys that we’ll be looking at as first-round guys, second-round guys, third-round guys [or] fourth-round guys we think could come in and compete to play right away or develop and become really good players, so that’s exciting for us.” The Ravens have adequate pass rushers in outside linebackers Kyle Van Noy (12 1/2 sacks in 2024) and Odafe Oweh (10), but they weren’t productive in big games, and Van Noy is 34. Third-year weakside linebacker Trenton Simpson was benched by the end of last season and the Raven also lost both replacements, Malik Harrison and Chris Board, during free agency. Ravens coach John Harbaugh, shown speaking during a news conference, says he likes the team's roster. Still, the Ravens could use an influx of young defensive talent. (Michael Conroy/AP) On the back end, the Ravens might be expecting big things from cornerback T.J. Tampa, a fourth-round pick in 2024, but the play of oft-injured Jalyn Armour-Davis is still suspect and veteran Marlon Humphrey is better in the slot than on the outside. The Ravens have 11 picks in the annual event, and the last time they had the many was 2022, when they selected eventual Pro Bowl performers Hamilton and center Tyler Linderbaum in the first round. They also hit with Jones, offensive lineman Daniel Faalele, tight end Charlie Kolar, punter Jordan Stout and tight end Isaiah Likely on Day 2 and 3. There have been several projections about which player the Ravens select at No. 27 in the first round. It might be Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart, even though he had only 4 1/2 sacks during his Aggies career. It might be Georgia safety Malaki Starks or Boston College pass rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku (16 1/2 sacks last season). There is no preference here, just get some new blood on defense. The Ravens have made significant hires as far as defensive assistants in the last year. Hopefully, former coordinator Dean Pees will return in some capacity as a consultant this season, and Chuck Pagano will coach the secondary. Related Articles Adam Schefter on possible extension for Ravens’ Lamar Jackson: ‘No-brainer’ READERS RESPOND: Here’s which position fans want Ravens to draft in 1st round NFL mock draft: Ravens beat writer Brian Wacker predicts first round Hacking case against ex-Ravens assistant might include Towson athletes Mike Preston: Joe Flacco considered Ravens return in offseason | COMMENTARY DeCosta, who replaced Ozzie Newsome as the general manager in 2019, has found success in recent drafts, even though his first one in 2019 was a disaster. The 2020 class featured linebacker Patrick Queen, running back J.K. Dobbins and Madubuike in the first three rounds and Washington and safety Geno Stone in both the fifth and seventh rounds, respectively. The 2021 class is still suspect, with receiver Rashod Bateman, Oweh and guard Ben Cleveland in the first three rounds, but both the 2023 and 2024 classes have panned out. The Ravens’ formula of picking the “best player available” has worked consistently, especially with the team’s on-the-field success having gone to the playoffs in six of the the past seven years. The emphasis in this class needs to be on defense. “Well, I’m never super confident,” DeCosta said. “I always want to feel like the weight of the world is on my shoulders. We want to hit on all our picks, not just first-round picks. I’m just as hard on myself for a fourth-round pick that I might’ve missed and what didn’t I see and what did I see? Or players that end up being really good that we passed on for different reasons, [and] what didn’t I see in that player? And now, he’s a Pro Bowler, and you just beat yourself up over that. So yes, I feel that pressure every year, and I welcome it. If I didn’t feel that, I’d be concerned.” Let’s just hope there is more concern on the defensive side of the ball. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta, in his words, has “a lot of different balls in the air right now.” Even with the start of the NFL draft less than a week away, no two are perhaps bigger than the contracts of quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry. Though Jackson is under contract through the 2027 season after signing a $260 million extension in 2023 and Henry still has one year left on the two-year deal he signed as a free agent last offseason, figuring out what to do with each are among Baltimore’s biggest priorities. How will the Ravens address each remains to be seen, but the coming weeks and months will be telling. Let’s start with Henry, because if the Ravens are going to extend the 31-year-old beyond the 2025 season, that’s a deal that would likely get done first if for no other reason than the timeframe and simplicity of such a move. Currently, the five-time Pro Bowl selection is set to make $6 million this year (not including up to another $3 million in bonuses). He’s also slated to count $12.895 million against the salary cap, a not completely insignificant number for a team that needs all the cap space it can get with just a handful of teams around the league having less than Baltimore’s $7.768 million in effective space, according to Over The Cap. Still, it’s a bargain when considering Henry was second in the league in rushing (1,921 yards) and averaged a career-high 5.9 yards per carry. Whether it stays that way could be a different story, though, with the Eagles’ Saquon Barkley — who beat out Henry for the rushing title and helped Philadelphia to the Super Bowl title — signing a two-year extension for a whopping $41.2 million that reportedly includes a guaranteed $36 million with $15 million in incentives. That made Barkley, 28, the highest-paid back annually by $1.6 million over the San Francisco 49ers’ Christian McCaffrey. By comparison, Henry is the 12th-highest paid back in terms of average annual value. “We saw the Eagles take care of Barkley — I know he won a Super Bowl — but Derrick Henry was great again,” said ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, who spoke with The Baltimore Sun last week on behalf of Sanofi and its screening for Type 1 diabetes, which both his wife Sharri and Ravens tight end Mark Andrews have both been diagnosed with. “If there’s a way to make him happier that doesn’t really compromise your cap all that much then why would you not do that? “I’m sure they will look to do something for Derrick Henry.” Or, they could choose to simply let Henry play out his contract. Though Henry has said he would like to retire as a Raven, if he signed with another team in free agency next offseason, Baltimore would all but certainly get a compensatory draft pick in return. Ravens running back Derrick Henry, shown practicing last season, made a major impact in 2024. The franchise could choose to extend him beyond the 2025 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Jackson’s situation, of course, is more complex for myriad reasons. The two-time NFL Most Valuable Player who finished runner-up to Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen still has three more years on his deal. But his salary cap number skyrockets to a prohibitive $74.65 million beginning in 2026. The organization has had internal discussions about an extension, but where they are on those talks with Jackson is unknown, with both DeCosta and the quarterback preferring to keep those matters private. Currently, Jackson is the sixth-highest-paid quarterback in the NFL in terms of total value and ninth-highest in terms of average annual value ($52 million), just behind the Los Angeles Chargers’ Justin Herbert. With a huge salary cap number looming, re-doing Jackson’s deal then is a matter of simply when, not if. “That’s a no-brainer,” Schefter said. “When you have a franchise quarterback, it’s like having a bank you can always borrow against. We see it all the time with all these other great quarterbacks.” To that point, Allen signed a six-year, $330 million extension with the Bills last month that made him the second-highest paid quarterback behind only the Kansas City Chiefs’ two-time NFL MVP and three-time Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes. At an average annual value of $55 million, only the Dallas Cowboys’ Dak Prescott makes more. At last month’s owners meeting, Ravens coach John Harbaugh didn’t equivocate when asked if it’s hard to put a value on Jackson. Related Articles READERS RESPOND: Here’s which position fans want Ravens to draft in 1st round NFL mock draft: Ravens beat writer Brian Wacker predicts first round Hacking case against ex-Ravens assistant might include Towson athletes Mike Preston: Joe Flacco considered Ravens return in offseason | COMMENTARY How will Ravens attack draft, roster? 10 takeaways from ‘liars’ luncheon’ “The value is the top,” he said. “When Lamar gets paid, he’s going to be the highest-paid player in football, just like he was last time. I think every contract he signs, probably until he decides to hang up his cleats, he’s going to be that guy.” What could that timeframe look like? “I’m sure at some point before the start of the season — no rush — the Ravens will probably address Lamar’s contract situation,” Schefter said. “If you can get his contract redone, make him happier and it’s not putting the organization at financial risk, which it wouldn’t, then you get that done, and that’s what I expect that they’ll do.” For now, though, DeCosta remains mum. “I’m not going to talk about what we’re doing, what we’re not doing behind the scenes business-wise with these guys,” he said. “I don’t think it’s good for me to do that, but I would say that aside from the draft, as you all know, we’re looking at guys that are still available, free agents on the street. We’re looking at re-signing our own guys. We’re blessed to have a bunch of really good players, and we’re going to try and keep as many of those guys as we can.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

We asked readers which position the Ravens should draft in the first round. Here are the results from our online poll: Edge rusher (40%) — 92 votes Cornerback (15%) — 35 votes Safety (15%) — 34 votes Offensive line (13%) — 30 votes Interior defensive line (10%) — 22 votes Other (7%) — 17 votes Here’s what some fans told us (answers have been edited for clarity and grammar): Draft the best player available ala Jonathan Ogden, Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Kyle Hamilton. — Allyns Best position, no contest! The best position for the Ravens is a first-round bye in the playoffs. — Bob Hodges The Eagles showed the best functioning of a defensive line. Their DL allowed the defense to drop seven players into coverage. No defensive back can stay with today’s receiver for more than 3 to 5 seconds, and 5 or more seconds is a coverage sack. The Ravens were third in sacks but their edge rushers only had a 27% rate of success. It is necessary to have excellent subs to rotate in the game. — John Blake The best player available is the way to go here. — Linda Tight end if they trade Mark Andrews. He would have to be the best TE in the draft. — Randolph I leave it to the discretion of GM Eric DeCosta and staff. The NFL draft is a moving butterfly effect where choices are made, in large measure based on what other teams ahead of them do. That said, it will surely be a defensive player. — czechm8d The best player available. — Tim Wide receiver. — Paul The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To see results from previous sports polls, go to baltimoresun.com/sportspoll Related Articles Adam Schefter on possible extension for Ravens’ Lamar Jackson: ‘No-brainer’ NFL mock draft: Ravens beat writer Brian Wacker predicts first round Hacking case against ex-Ravens assistant might include Towson athletes Mike Preston: Joe Flacco considered Ravens return in offseason | COMMENTARY How will Ravens attack draft, roster? 10 takeaways from ‘liars’ luncheon’ View the full article

With a week until the 2025 NFL draft kicks off Thursday night in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Ravens beat writer Brian Wacker predicts all 32 picks in the first round. 1. Tennessee Titans: Cam Ward, QB, Miami After misfiring on Will Levis in the second round two years ago, the new regime of general manager and ex-Kansas City Chiefs assistant general manager Mike Borgonzi and coach and former Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan get their face of the franchise. Ward’s skills have drawn at least some comparison with Patrick Mahomes. 2. Cleveland Browns: Travis Hunter, WR/CB, Colorado The signing of Joe Flacco and trade for former Pittsburgh Steelers first-round draft pick Kenny Pickett to join an injured Deshaun Watson means the Browns will wait until next year, perhaps for Arch Manning. In the meantime, they get the Heisman Trophy winner, a potential two-way star and who many consider the best overall player in the draft. 3. New York Giants: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State Like the Browns, the Giants will wait for their next franchise quarterback after signing Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston. Edge rusher isn’t New York’s most pressing need, but Carter (12 sacks, 24 tackles for loss in 2024) is too good to pass on. 4. New England Patriots: Will Campbell, OT, LSU After the Ravens re-signed left tackle Ronnie Stanley just before the start of free agency, the Patriots were forced to look elsewhere to find Drake Maye’s blindside protector. They spent in free agency and get the best tackle in the class to sign up on the left side opposite veteran and former Ravens starter Morgan Moses on the right side. 5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ashton Jeanty, RB, Boise State The Jaguars have other needs, including at cornerback and defensive tackle, but Jeanty, who finished second in Heisman Trophy voting, gives an offense that ranked 25th in total yards and 26th in rushing yards an instant jolt. Jeanty led the nation in rushing last year with 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns. Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham, warming up during a game last season, would fill a big hole up front for Jacksonville. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya) 6. Las Vegas Raiders: Mason Graham, DL, Michigan With the Jaguars snagging Jeanty, the Raiders and new general manager John Spytek turn to improving a defense that ranked 25th in points per game and 22nd in sack percentage last season. Graham is an interior game wrecker who also comes from minority owner Tom Brady’s alma mater. 7. New York Jets: Armand Membou, OT, Missouri Penn State tight end Tyler Warren is a possibility here given the need for a weapon for quarterback Justin Fields. But after taking Olu Fashanu 11th overall last year and with the departure of Moses in free agency, the Jets get bookend tackles to actually protect a quarterback who has been sacked plenty. 8. Carolina Panthers: Jalon Walker, EDGE/LB, Georgia Only two teams had fewer sacks last season than the Panthers’ 32. In Walker, they get a versatile 6-foot-1, 243-pound pass rusher who can be deployed in several different ways. 9. New Orleans Saints: Tyler Warren, TE, Penn State With quarterback Derek Carr dealing with a shoulder injury, there’s been speculation that the Saints could need a quarterback. Or that could simply be subterfuge and they’ll go with a playmaking tight end who has size (6-6, 256), a big catch radius and could be a difference maker. 10. Chicago Bears: Colston Loveland, TE, Michigan The Bears have a variety of needs, including at edge rusher and left tackle, but new coach Ben Johnson likes two-tight end sets. If Warren is already off the board, Loveland, who some think might be the best tight end in the draft, could be the answer to pair with Cole Kmet. Related Articles Adam Schefter on possible extension for Ravens’ Lamar Jackson: ‘No-brainer’ READERS RESPOND: Here’s which position fans want Ravens to draft in 1st round Hacking case against ex-Ravens assistant might include Towson athletes Mike Preston: Joe Flacco considered Ravens return in offseason | COMMENTARY How will Ravens attack draft, roster? 10 takeaways from ‘liars’ luncheon’ 11. San Francisco 49ers: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas The offensive line is San Francisco’s biggest need. With Banks, they can plug him in immediately at right tackle with a long-term plan of moving him to left tackle to eventually replace the aging Trent Williams. 12. Dallas Cowboys: Matthew Golden, WR, Texas This one checks the box of biggest need and best option available at the position with the 5-11, 191-pound Golden a nice complement to the bigger CeeDee Lamb. Other possibilities include Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka and Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan. 13. Miami Dolphins: Nick Emmanwori, S, South Carolina Interior offensive line is probably a bigger need among the many Miami has, so Booker or North Dakota State’s Grey Zabel could be options. But the offensive line class is deeper than it is at safety, and Emmanwori has been flying up the board given his freakish athletic ability and football IQ. North Dakota State offensive lineman Grey Zabel, shown participating in his school's Pro Day, could be a top-15 pick in the NFL draft. (Russell Hons/AP) 14. Indianapolis Colts: Grey Zabel, OL, North Dakota State Perhaps the Colts trade up for Warren or Loveland. If not, Zabel might be the most versatile lineman in the draft with talent and experience at tackle and guard that can help protect injury-prone quarterback Anthony Richardson or free-agent acquisition Daniel Jones. 15. Atlanta Falcons: Mike Green, EDGE, Marshall The Falcons’ 31 sacks last season were the fewest in the league, and they were last when it came to sacks on third down, too. Enter Green, who led the FBS with 17 1/2 sacks and was tops in tackles among defensive linemen last year. 16. Arizona Cardinals: Mykel Williams, EDGE, Georgia There are needs on both the offensive and defensive lines. But with a dismal ranking of 28th in pass rush win rate (33.3%) last season, per ESPN analytics, the 6-5, 267-pound Williams could provide an immediate spark with his length, bend and power alongside free agent signing Josh Sweat. 17. Cincinnati Bengals: Derrick Harmon, DT, Oregon The Bengals need a guard, but they’ll wait until Round 2 to address that given the depth of the position. In Harmon, they get an interior disruptor against the pass and run, something the defense desperately needs with Trey Hendrickson currently the only player able to get after the quarterback. 18. Seattle Seahawks: Jihaad Campbell, LB, Alabama Offensive line, particularly on the interior, is the need here, but one that can wait a round with Zabel and others already off the board. Instead, coach Mike Macdonald gets a player with the kind of versatility he covets in Campbell, who has some medical concerns after surgery for a torn labrum following the scouting combine but led Alabama in tackles (117), tackles for loss (11 1/2), sacks (five) and forced fumbles (two) last season. 19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Donovan Ezeiruaku, EDGE, Boston College Inside linebacker and cornerback are also needs for Tampa Bay. But Ezeiruaku, who is long and lean, racked up 16 1/2 sacks last season and has been climbing boards since the Senior Bowl. 20. Denver Broncos: Omarion Hampton, RB, North Carolina Hampton has long been mentioned as a possibility for the running back-needy Broncos. Denver was in the bottom third of the league in yards per carry last season, so this pick makes total sense for a coach in Sean Payton who likes to run things through the tight end and backfield. Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders could be a good fit for the Steelers, especially if he's given a year or two to develop behind a veteran starter. (Phelan M. Ebenhack/AP) 21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado Maybe Aaron Rodgers will still sign with the Steelers. Either way, they get their quarterback of the future with no pressure to play Sanders immediately if they do bring Rodgers aboard. 22. Los Angeles Chargers: Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan Grant is huge (6-4, 330) and was a dominant run stuffer with the athletic traits to develop into a more complete force in the middle of the Chargers’ defense. He also played for Jim Harbaugh before the Michigan coach took over the Chargers last season. 23. Green Bay Packers: Jahdae Barron, CB, Texas Cornerback is the biggest need for a Packers team that lost a few players at the position and could trade or release Jaire Alexander. Last season, Barron had nine pass breakups, five interceptions, allowed just 279 yards and no touchdowns and is physical presence who can play outside or inside. 24. Minnesota Vikings: Walter Nolen, DT, Mississippi With the top two cornerbacks off the board, the Vikings turn to their next biggest need. It’s possible Nolen is long gone by this spot, but if not, the 6-4, 300-pound interior lineman is the kind of game-wrecker Minnesota would be glad to have. 25. Houston Texans: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona The needs are two-fold — offensive line and wide receiver — after trading Laremy Tunsil and with little depth behind Nico Collins and the injured Tank Dell. But with the 6-5 McMillan, who had 1,319 yards and eight touchdowns on 84 catches last season, falling into their lap, it’s a no-brainer. 26. Los Angeles Rams: Maxwell Hairston, CB, Kentucky Hairston was a scouting combine standout, running the 40-yard dash in 4.28 seconds and was just shy of 40 inches in his vertical jump at his pro day. The 6-foot, 183-pound two-year starter also led the Southeastern Conference in interceptions (five) in 2023, had three career interceptions that he returned for touchdowns and played a mix of zone and man coverage. Texas A&M defensive lineman Shemar Stewart records a sack in 2024. Stewart is viewed as a potential first-round NFL draft pick, and he would fit well on the Ravens' roster. (Randy J. Williams/AP file) 27. Ravens: Shemar Stewart, EDGE, Texas A&M The Ravens’ biggest needs are at edge rusher, cornerback and safety. Subscribing to their best player available mantra, Stewart fits the bill. Even though he had just 4 1/2 career sacks for the Aggies, that only tells part of his story, as he stood out at the Senior Bowl and had a fantastic scouting combine. 28. Detroit Lions: Tyler Booker, G, Alabama If one of the aforementioned edge rushers falls to the Lions, expect them to go that route to pair said player with Aidan Hutchinson. As for Booker, there are concerns over him after a rough showing at the scouting combine, but he was a standout during his college career and could be a plug-and-play guard for the Lions’ largely gap run scheme. 29. Washington Commanders: James Pearce, EDGE, Tennessee Off the field, there are concerns about Pearce’s commitment and character. On it, he’s viewed as a player with a high ceiling after recording 19 1/2 career sacks, including 7 1/2 last season. 30. Buffalo Bills: Malaki Starks, S, Georgia Grant could be an option given the suspension of recently signed defensive lineman Larry Ogunjobi. But the Bills can use safety help as well, and Starks is a versatile defensive back who has played nickel and safety, made plenty of big plays for the Bulldogs’ defense and has been praised for his football IQ. 31. Kansas City Chiefs: Josh Simmons, OT, Ohio State The rich get richer. Simmons would have been a much higher pick if not for a midseason knee injury, but he’s reportedly ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation and would give the Chiefs another talented offensive lineman, even after signing Jaylon Moore to two-year deal in the offseason. 32. Philadelphia Eagles: Emeka Egbuka, WR, Ohio State Speaking of the rich getting richer, Egbuka finished his Ohio State career as the school’s leader in receptions (205) and is a tough, skillful route runner who has been lauded for his intelligence at the position. He also gives quarterback Jalen Hurts another much-needed target for the reigning Super Bowl champs. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

A federal hacking case alleging that former Ravens and University of Michigan coach Matt Weiss gained access to thousands of intimate photos of college students might include former Towson University athletes as victims. Attorneys Megan Bonanni of Pitt McGehee Palmer Bonanni & Rivers and Lisa Esser-Weidenfeller of Sommers Schwartz sent a preservation notice to the school to retain all relevant evidence, including emails, videos and any records involving personal data belonging to student-athletes who attended the university between 2012 and 2019. The attorneys — who represented survivors in cases against sports doctors Larry Nassar, who pleaded guilty in 2017 to sexually assaulting hundreds of young female athletes, and Robert Anderson, who was accused of sexual abuse by more than 1,000 mostly male Michigan athletes — filed the paperwork for a number of former athletes who believe Weiss might have illegally accessed their personal information during or after their time at Towson. At least five federal lawsuits have been filed nationwide in connection with the allegations. “This is the tip of the iceberg,” attorney Jon Marko said Monday at a news conference in Detroit announcing that 40 more student-athletes have joined a lawsuit against the University of Michigan. “I think as we peel back the layers of this rotten onion that the University of Michigan has created that we’re going to discover that there’s going to be different entanglements out there, that there’s going to be additional women and individuals [who were affected].” Weiss worked for the Ravens from 2009 to 2020 under coach John Harbaugh, filling positions such as defensive quality coach and running backs coach before moving to Michigan. He has no known connection to Towson, and it’s unclear exactly which schools aside from the University of Michigan might have been affected by Weiss’ alleged behavior. Ernie Larossa, associate athletic director and director of athletic communications at Johns Hopkins University, said that the school has not been contacted about this case. Sean Welsh, Towson vice president of university marketing and communications, did not immediately return phone calls and emails requesting comment. A Ravens spokesperson did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Last month, a court filing submitted by lawyers for victims included an email sent by the U.S. Justice Department revealing that investigators had found thousands of intimate photos and videos from Weiss, who was charged in March with 14 counts of unauthorized access to computers and 10 counts of aggravated identity theft. According to a federal indictment, Weiss accessed the social media, email and cloud storage accounts of more than 2,000 athletes and more than 1,300 students or graduates from more than 100 U.S. universities to find private images, primarily of women. “Thousands of candid, intimate photographs and videos have been seized from the defendant’s electronic devices and from his could storage accounts,” the Justice Department’s Mega Victim Case Assistance Program said. “Many show victims naked. Some show victims engaged in explicit sexual acts.” Weiss has pleaded not guilty to identity theft and unauthorized computer access from 2015 to 2023. He and his lawyer have not commented on the case, which is set for a Nov. 4 trial. Related Articles Navy safety Rayuan Lane has set himself up to be a potential NFL draft pick Navy football meets President Trump for Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy presentation | VIDEO President Trump adds twists to Navy football’s Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy presentation Tracking the Terps: Maryland football loses players to transfer portal Maryland athletic director search: 4 candidates identified, sources say Weiss was Michigan’s co-offensive coordinator in 2022 when the team went 13-1 and participated in the College Football Playoff. He was fired in 2023 during an investigation of his computer use. Los Angeles Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh, who was Weiss’ boss at Michigan, called the allegations “shocking.” His brother, Ravens coach John Harbaugh, used the same word when talking to reporters last month at the NFL’s annual owners meeting. “It’s just really shocking, surprising,” John Harbaugh said in Palm Beach, Florida. “I didn’t see that one coming. I found out about it the same time everybody else did. I don’t know what to make of it. I just feel really bad for the people involved that were affected by it, especially his family and then the people that were the victims of that … It’s really just a disturbing situation.” Have a news tip? Contact Edward Lee at eklee@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/EdwardLeeSun. View the full article

Former quarterback Joe Flacco had a brief conversation about returning to the Ravens this offseason, and once that didn’t happen, he made another investment in the Baltimore community with Caddix cleats, a local shoe company. According to Flacco, the Ravens inquired about his return but eventually signed former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush to a two-year, $6.2 million deal on March 18 that could be worth up to $12.2 million. Flacco, 40, signed a one-year deal with the Cleveland Browns for $4 million last week. The initial talks with the club drew interest from Flacco, whose hot streak in the 2012 postseason led the Ravens to a 34-31 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl 47. Flacco was named the game’s Most Valuable Player after completing 27 of 33 passes for 287 yards and three touchdowns. He started his career in Baltimore as a first-round draft pick out of Delaware in 2008, staying with the franchise until 2018. The Ravens won the AFC North twice and appeared in three conference championship games. “They did kind of reach out to [my agent] Joe [Linta], gauging my interest for something like that to happen,” Flacco said. “My agent called me up and was like, ‘What do you want me to tell them?’ I’m like, ‘Well, listen, I’m interested. I don’t know what’s going to happen. It’s not like choice No. 1, I don’t know what’s going to happen here with me if I’m going to get an opportunity to do something a little bit more, but I wasn’t against it.’ “I think I would’ve been excited about it in a little bit of a way.” Flacco still has strong ties in Baltimore, especially former teammates and tight ends Todd Heap and Dennis Pitta. So much, in fact, that all three have invested in Caddix, which has revolutionized cleats so that they “flex” or give a little instead of getting stuck in artificial turn. That can help alleviate injuries without sacrificing performance. The main feature is using smart-studs to reduce rotational force, which is responsible for many knee and ankle injuries. Flacco wore a pair this past season with the Indianapolis Colts, who are interested in making the shoes available to players in 2025. And the Browns might be next. “It felt like a normal pair of cleats to me,” Flacco said. “They break in quickly, and then there is the injury prevention thing. Everybody wants to extend their career and play as long as possible. “With the money that guys are making these days, why wouldn’t you want to try to stay around as long as you can and at least be a top performer for as long as you can? With all the noncontact injuries and how big and strong guys are getting, and the move from natural grass to turf because all these owners want to capitalize on the profit as much as they can in the offseason as well as in season, I just think it’s kind of a no-brainer and you’re gaining a bit of a peace of mind.” It does make a lot of sense, especially if a knee or ankle can’t lock into artificial surfaces. You wonder how many careers could have been saved or extended in the past 20 years with these spikes. It’s like what the NFL now does with helmets because of the increased concerns about concussions. Kirk McCullough, former team physician with the Kansas City Chiefs who also served on the NFL’s foot and ankle subcommittee, says the new spikes could be like the first commercial designs for automobile airbags, which were introduced in 1970’s. Quarterback Joe Flacco says Caddix Cleats feel like normal cleats, and he has seen other NFL players jump on the Caddix bandwagon. (John Amis/AP) “We just have to do the best job we can to limit risk with every cut and pivot and motion that they’re doing on those surfaces,” McCullough said. “I think there was probably a point at which someone thought when they first came up with airbags that, oh, that it just can’t work … it’s going to be too much of a risk, all these other things, and yet it’s now a standard look.” According to Flacco, about 20 to 25 NFL players wore the cleats last season, but that might jump to nearly 100 in 2025. The spikes were created by Jack Rasmussen, 30, of Catonsville, 11 years ago and Heap saw a video while scrolling through Instagram. Both Jack and his father, Jeff, the cofounder, were watching a football game when a player’s cleat got caught in the ground. Related Articles How will Ravens attack draft, roster? 10 takeaways from ‘liars’ luncheon’ Ravens GM Eric DeCosta noncommittal about trading Mark Andrews Who will the Ravens pick in the 2025 NFL draft? Grok AI weighs in. Mike Preston: Dont’e Thornton Jr. will never forget his Baltimore roots | COMMENTARY READER POLL: Which position should the Ravens draft in the first round? “My dad and I were watching a football game and someone went down with a noncontact [injury] and tore the ACL, and he and I both thought that looked preventable,” Jack Rasmussen said. “But he was an advertising guy and I was a college dropout, so we weren’t exactly the most fit team to figure it out. “So I brought a book about patents. I bought a pair of cleats and I tore them apart and figured out how they worked,” he said. “And the next day I quit my job, drove home and sat in my room for 13 months and taught myself biomechanics, physics, anatomy, material science, just all the stuff I needed to learn to get my head around what this injury was. My dad and I actually wrote the first patent when I was 19, and the mechanism that we came up with actually does reduce the force.” Actually, it seems that the spikes were geared more for women because they appear to struggle more with knee ligament tears. Several top women’s lacrosse players wear Caddix, including attackers Lindsey Marshall (Clemson), Ava Angello (Johns Hopkins), Alison Harbaugh (South Florida) and Northwestern defender Sammy White. “So we make football cleats that double as men’s lacrosse cleats, and we make women’s soccer cleats that double as women’s lacrosse cleats,” Jack Rasmussen said. “We do want to focus on women’s sports because they’re at a higher risk of injury because of anatomical differences between men and women. And we want to kind of help negate that as much as we can.” But Caddix makes every type of spike for just about every sport now, regardless of whether it’s men or women. At the same time, Jack Rasmussen gets to pal around with his longtime heroes. Pitta and Flacco were members of the 2012 Super Bowl team. Heap is in the Ravens’ Ring of Honor and Jack still has his jersey on a wall somewhere in his house. But the emphasis will be on the reduction of injuries, regardless of age. “The young athletes tend not to be as developed as a guy like myself or a 24-year-old professional athlete,” Flacco said. “It’s not like they’ve been in the weight room and doing all those things. And with the amount of load that they deal with these days, all the constant year-round sports they’re doing, I think it’s just a huge market for parents to feel like, OK man, this has given us a little bit of an edge and it’s protecting my kid.” Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

With the start of the NFL draft just over a week away, the clock is nearly ticking for the Ravens. Baltimore held its third set of draft meetings last week, this one including the coaching staff. With 11 picks this year, there are plenty of players for them to hone in on. Tuesday in Owings Mills, general manager Eric DeCosta and coach John Harbaugh met with reporters to discuss this year’s draft at the organization’s annual and colloquially dubbed “liars’ luncheon.” It of course draws that moniker because Baltimore is not revealing its plans for the draft, which will take place April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Still, at least some things could be gleaned from the 40-minute session. Defensive line a ‘priority’ With the retirement of Michael Pierce and Brent Urban hitting free agency and turning 34 next month, the Ravens are a bit thin along the defensive front. Put bluntly, it seems all but certain they’ll add to the position in this year’s draft. “I think it’s certainly a priority,” DeCosta said. “This is a fairly deep defensive line class. We’ve always been a team that wants to be big and strong and powerful on both sides of the line.” It helps that Baltimore already has Nnamdi Madubuike, the ascending Travis Jones and sometimes-starter and veteran Broderick Washington. Beyond them, however, there is no one who has played more than one season. And of that group — Adedayo Odeleye, Basil Okoye and C.J. Ravenell — none have appeared in a game, which could lead the Ravens to look at someone like Oregon’s Derrick Harmon with their first-round pick (27th overall). Left tackles don’t ‘grow on trees’ The logic to re-signing left tackle Ronnie Stanley to a contract extension ahead of the start of free agency was simple. “Left tackles don’t grow on trees,” DeCosta said. “I think Ronnie had one of his best years last year. Looking out at the draft and free agency, we just didn’t really see a lot of guys that we felt that were better than him.” Still, Baltimore needs depth along the offensive line and with DeCosta adding that the class is deep at both tackle and guard, it seems almost certain they will add one if not more players, including perhaps a swing tackle after losing Patrick Mekari in free agency. Said DeCosta: “I think that if you’re looking at the offensive line, the defensive line and the outside linebackers as a whole, I would say that they’re the three of the strongest positions in this draft class.” Related Articles Ravens GM Eric DeCosta noncommittal about trading Mark Andrews Who will the Ravens pick in the 2025 NFL draft? Grok AI weighs in. Mike Preston: Dont’e Thornton Jr. will never forget his Baltimore roots | COMMENTARY READER POLL: Which position should the Ravens draft in the first round? NFL mock draft (Version 5.0): 3-round projections to fill final team needs Edge also a need The Ravens return their outside linebacker group from a year ago — including Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh, who had 12 1/2 and 10 sacks respectively. Still, it’s a position of need, with only Tavius Robinson and David Ojabo, who struggled last season, next in line behind them. It’s also what DeCosta called a “good” class, particularly in the early and middle rounds. As for how he eyes traits versus production of a potential player? “It’s a cocktail,” he said. “You try to get the full depth of who that player might be. I’m a big fan of production … I think production speaks to consistency and doing it over and over again. “However, there are some really good players that for whatever reason might not be productive.” One player who fits that mold, for example, is Texas A&M edge rusher Shemar Stewart, who has met with the Ravens but could be off the board by the time Baltimore picks at No. 27 after a big performance at the NFL scouting combine. The Ravens see the depth of the 2025 draft class similarly to the 2022 class, in which they picked tight end Isaiah Likely in the fourth round. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Draft depth likened to 2022 The last time the Ravens had 11 picks in the draft was in 2022. That class was fruitful, early and later on. Baltimore got future All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton with the 14th overall pick, future Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum 25th, defensive tackle Travis Jones in Round 3, and offensive lineman Daniel Faalele and tight ends Charlie Kolar and Isaiah Likely in Round 4. While this year’s class isn’t as front-loaded, the expectation is to find meaningful contributors in the middle rounds. DeCosta said the Ravens have 217 players as draftable — a big number when there have been some years that they’ve struggled to have 160. “That means that the mid rounds are going to be really good,” DeCosta said. “Also I think that undrafted free agency should have a chance to be really really good for us.” But with a roster that’s already deep, it also means that the Ravens likely won’t have all 11 draft picks make the team. Ravens continue to keep eye on kickers With uncertainty continuing to swirl around Justin Tucker, who is being investigated by the NFL over sexual misconduct claims by several massage therapists, DeCosta didn’t rule out the possibility that Baltimore will use a draft pick on a kicker — something the organization has never done. Asked if he thinks it’s worth using a pick on the position, he replied in the affirmative. “It’s worth it if you have the right kicker,” he said. “It should be said that some of the greatest kickers of all time weren’t drafted. There’s no blueprint for finding a kicker, except you gotta be able to evaluate the kicker.” That’s something that senior special teams coach Randy Brown has continued to do, DeCosta said. Ravens mum on Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry extensions Earlier this offseason, DeCosta said he might visit quarterback Lamar Jackson in South Florida in regards to a potential contract extension, something that he and others in the organization have also discussed internally. Where those talks stand, however, remains unknown, which of course is how DeCosta likes to keep things. Though he did concede the two have texted and had a “conversation” as the team readies for the draft. “Didn’t get into specific players,” DeCosta said. “We talked a little bit about the roster and what he’s up to and his vision.” He was equally non-forthcoming about a possible extension for running back Derrick Henry, who is in the final year of his two-year contract, and how that could pertain to the draft. “We have a lot of [different] balls in the air right now,” DeCosta said. “Aside from the draft we’re looking at free agents on the street, looking at re-signing our own guys. “We’ll also continue to build a roster after the draft. … There will be some good opportunities to fill holes after draft.” DeCosta remains noncommittal about Mark Andrews’ future DeCosta was asked bluntly if he fully expects tight end Mark Andrews, who is in the final year of his contract, to be on the roster this season and stopped short of simply saying yes. “Oh man, I never know what’s gonna happen,” he said before heaping praise on the Ravens’ all-time leading scorer. “He’s a great player, and we’re in the business of keeping as many great players as we can.” Andrews has been the subject of trade speculation this offseason, particularly with fellow tight end and the ascending Likely entering his fourth season and thus extension eligible. It’s still possible the Ravens could look to deal Andrews ahead of or during the draft for the right offer. But that is not a path they have generally taken (though they did deal wide receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown to the Arizona Cardinals a few days before the 2022 draft). Safety Ar'Darius Washington is likely to remain in Baltimore as a restricted free agent. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Ar’Darius Washington likely to remain with Ravens Friday marks the deadline for restricted free agent safety Ar’Darius Washington to sign an offer sheet with another team, something that appears less likely with each passing hour. “I’m fairly confident he will be back,” DeCosta acknowledged. Either way, though, he doesn’t see it impacting their decision making when it comes to the draft and all but said the obvious: that Baltimore will likely use picks on the cornerback and safety positions. “Corner is critical, important position,” he said. “They’re like Bugattis, they just break down.” DeCosta also said that they’d look at safeties to add to a group that includes second-year players Sanoussi Kane and Beau Brade, both of whom were core special teamers last season. Punt returner possibilities With the Ravens’ well-documented struggles on punt returns last season, will they look to draft a wide receiver or player at another position with that capability? “It’d be nice,” DeCosta said, before Harbaugh raised his hand with a big smile and added, “I am.” To the point, special teams coordinator Chris Horton Jr. has bene ranking prospects from first to worst when it comes to return skills. The Ravens do have some internal options — most notably wide receiver Tylan Wallace, who had the job before losing it last season — but it’s clear they haven’t made up their mind on the position and DeCosta said they want a “high ceiling” when it comes to the role. Deadline approaching for Hamilton, Linderbaum With Hamilton and Lindernbaum entering the final year of their rookie contracts, the Ravens have until May 1 to decide whether to pick up their fifth-year options. With each having been selected to two Pro Bowls, doing so wouldn’t come cheap. Hamilton would cost $18.6 million, while Linderbaum would ring in at $23.4 million. DeCosta, unsurprisingly, was mum on what Baltimore plans to do. Given Hamilton’s skill set and importance to the defense, though, picking up his would seem like a no-brainer as he’ll likely reset the safety market with an extension that would top the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Antoine Winfield’s $84.1 million contract that has an average annual value of over $21 million. As for Linderbaum, the Ravens could hold off until next offseason and use the franchise tag on the center, which they could then pull while working out a long-term extension should they go that route. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

During the Ravens’ predraft luncheon on Tuesday, general manager Eric DeCosta was asked if he fully expects tight end Mark Andrews to remain with the team and be a focal point of Baltimore’s Super Bowl aspirations next season. DeCosta was complimentary, yet noncommittal. “Oh, man,” he said. “I never know what’s gonna happen. And I would never want to say this or that. But I can tell you this, Mark Andrews, he’s a warrior and he’s played his butt off for his. His competitiveness, his talent, his attitude, his leadership, is so valued here.” Andrews has been a centerpiece of Baltimore’s offseason scuttlebutt. The veteran tight end, who is a surefire future member of the Ravens’ Ring of Honor, ended his season on murky terms. Andrews dropped the game-tying 2-point conversion attempt in Baltimore’s AFC divisional round loss to the Buffalo Bills. That came shortly after a costly fumble in Bills territory that set up the eventual decisive field goal. He did not speak postgame and did not attend the open portion of locker room cleanup the following afternoon, rather opting to share his remorse on social media. It wasn’t all bad. Despite needing six weeks to put the ball in the end zone, Andrews led the Ravens in receiving touchdowns (11) and was second in receptions, trailing only Zay Flowers in the league’s most potent offense by DVOA. He also became the franchise’s all-time leader in touchdowns. Andrews is now entering the final season of a four-year, $56 million contract extension he signed in September 2021. Rumors of Baltimore moving on from Lamar Jackson’s career-long safety blanket speak to the depth behind him, namely ascendent tight ends Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar. DeCosta also has 11 picks to work with heading into next week’s draft, which he said provides the organization some “flexibility.” Should the Ravens move on from Andrews, next week’s NFL draft could be a logical place to start. That said, DeCosta couldn’t remember ever trading away a player on draft day. He was reminded about sending wide receiver Marquise Brown to Arizona for the 22nd overall pick in 2022. DeCosta boxed himself into revealing that he had made that deal the Monday before the draft. His answer tumbled away from any more Andrews speculation. Related Articles How will Ravens attack draft, roster? 10 takeaways from ‘liars’ luncheon’ Who will the Ravens pick in the 2025 NFL draft? Grok AI weighs in. Mike Preston: Dont’e Thornton Jr. will never forget his Baltimore roots | COMMENTARY READER POLL: Which position should the Ravens draft in the first round? NFL mock draft (Version 5.0): 3-round projections to fill final team needs When posed a similar question about Andrews’ future at the NFL owners meetings last month, Ravens coach John Harbaugh had this to say: “I do fully expect him to be playing for us next year. He’s just too good a player. Obviously, with any player, there’s always that — probably any player — it’s just coaches [and] players … It’s the National Football League. That’s part of the deal, with things happening, so I never could say anybody … but Mark would be one of the few guys I would expect to be here, so we’ll see what happens. My plans are that we’ve got Mark, we’ve got Isaiah, we’ve got Charlie, we’ve got Pat Ricard all in place doing all those jobs.” If Baltimore explores trading Andrews, he would certainly make for a strong chip at the negotiation table for a potential Day 1 or Day 2 draft slot. He’s a highly respected locker-room presence and still a formidable pass catcher, even if his total output dipped. His annual salary ranks sixth among tight ends, but a team trading for him would only be responsible for the $7 million base salary. Only time will tell how all of this plays out. Just don’t expect DeCosta to show his cards beyond admiration for Andrews’ past seven seasons as a Raven. “He’s a great player,” DeCosta said. “And I think we’re in the business of keeping as many great players as we can. There’s always a lot of unpredictability with the draft. You just never know.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. Ravens GM Eric DeCosta said Tuesday that “we’re in the business of keeping as many great players as we can. There’s always a lot of unpredictability with the draft. You just never know.” (Kevin Richardson/Staff) View the full article