The draft is very much nearly upon us.
While the Baltimore Ravens were one of the best teams in the NFL last season, there are more than a few holes to address on the roster.
Tackle and guard cover
Ronnie Stanley was re-signed but that does not solve everything.
Stanley has a relatively short shelf life and an injury history, though he did play every game in 2024.
Add to that the loss of Patrick Mekari, our starting left guard who offered cover to any position on the line if injury occurred.
Andrew Vorhees or Ben Cleveland need to step up as starting guards, but cover across the line is still an issue.
A younger version of Mekari with starting potential would be ideal.
Defensive line
Nnamdi Madubuike is under contract but had a down year. With Michael Pierce retiring, the Ravens need starting quality options in the middle of the front seven.
The Ravens lack options to stuff the run and occupy blockers to allow edge rushers to do their job and sack opposing quarterbacks. Speaking of which…
Edge rushers
It has been a while since the Ravens drafted a premium edge rusher.
They have got by with production from veterans such as Kyle Van Noy and Jadeveon Clowney.
But a rookie in the mould of Terrell Suggs would be a real weapon to close out games or swing a tight contest in Baltimore’s favour.
Cornerback cover
The Ravens have some top quality talent at cornerback – and safety – certainly assuming Nate Wiggins continues to develop as a starter.
Beyond that though, Baltimore requires some depth to cover inevitable injuries and create scheme flexibility.
Kicker
Justin Tucker is still on the Ravens roster but he is unlikely to be suiting up in Week 1.
Whether the Ravens target a kicker late in the draft, pick up an undrafted free agents or sign a veteran, the position needs addressing.
The only positive is that Tucker was shaky last season. His alleged indescretions offer the opportunity for a clean break.
Summary
The core nucleus of the roster is strong.
Hitting on draft picks next week and improving in the areas listed above would go a long way to getting the Ravens over the hump in the AFC.
