50 Words or Less: A Ravens Defense Boost Is Coming
The first wave of free agency has passed and the NFL Draft is only about a month away.
While the Ravens’ offense has gotten much of the attention thus far this offseason, I’m going to focus the majority of this column on the defense.
Here are my thoughts, all in 50 words or less:
Seven of the Ravens’ eight free agency moves thus far have been on offense. The only defensive addition is linebacker/special teamer Jake Hummel. My gut says Baltimore will sign a pre-draft veteran cornerback, but most of the defensive boost will come via the draft, which is loaded with defensive talent.
The Ravens have 11 draft picks. If Eric DeCosta uses all of them, I’ll guess seven will be defensive additions: two defensive linemen, two cornerbacks or outside linebackers, safety, and inside linebacker. That leaves four offensive selections: two offensive linemen, wide receiver, tight end or running back.
The Ravens’ needs at cornerback and safety are quite similar. They have their starters but need valuable No. 3s to free up stars to do what they do best. Kyle Hamilton needs the freedom to move around everywhere. Marlon Humphrey should play inside and outside.
Defensive Coordinator Zach Orr said he expects Nate Wiggins to be “one of the best corners” in the NFL in Year 2. Wiggins always had that level of talent, but Baltimore envisions it happening sooner than later because of the way he diligently worked on his craft as a rookie.
