To start with Marlon Humphrey, the Ravens required a starting right tackle and a starting cornerback. On paper, at least, they discovered both. Wiggins can run with anyone, despite the fact that his small physique may cause him to lose the physical struggle. Rosengarten, on the other hand, should start the race on the right side and perform as good as or better than Rosengarten. Wiggins’ speed and unique combination of skills and attributes made him the clear top pick in the class; even though he faltered a little in the first round, Wiggins is still a terrific addition for the Ravens, who know they need more productivity from a corner other than Humphrey.
As a player with raw talent who maximizes his rookie deal (and eventually signs a second deal elsewhere), Isaac fits into the Ravens’ customary template of taking a chance on him. He ought to alternate with Kyle Van Noy to provide Odafe Oweh with a steady threat from the edge. I’m a big fan of Walker’s decision because the Ravens paid a relatively modest price for a receiver who would have drawn more attention had the NCAA not interfered with his chance to play in his one and only season at North Carolina.
The addition of Ali to the roster brings another competition to the depth chart, and general manager Eric DeCosta’s addition of two defensive backs on the third day of the draft did not come as a surprise. Leary, on the other hand, seems to follow the classic mold of a developing arm behind a seasoned backup (Josh Johnson) and a solid starter (Lamar Jackson), similar to the Green Bay Packers of the 1990s. All in all, it was a strong draft with some stealthy depth that might be crucial come autumn, highlighted by a few selections who will be expected to start right away.
Round 1: Clemson’s Nate Wiggins, DB (No. 30 overall)
Round 2: Washington’s Roger Rosengarten, OT (No. 62)
Round 3: Penn State’s Adisa Isaac, LB (No. 93).
Round 4: T.J. Tampa, DB, Iowa State (No. 130) vs. Devontez Walker, WR, North Carolina (No. 113)
Round 5: Marshall (No. 165) and Rasheen Ali, RB
Round 6: Kentucky quarterback Devin Leary (No. 218)
Round 7: Sanoussi Kane, DB, Purdue (No. 250) | Nick Samac, C, Michigan State (No. 228)