Projected comp picks: 3rd round for KO
Round 1:
Corey Davis, WR, WMU
While CB and Edge are certainly huge needs, I'd rather go BPA to start the draft. I love Davis route running ability, size, and his tenacity to go after the ball. He'd be a great player to match up aside Wallace and Perriman. I think Davis will likely be available, as Mike Williams likely goes before us and I think the late teens/early 20s is probably Davis optimal draft position.
Round 2:
Desmond King, FS/CB, Iowa
I am a huge fan of Desmond Kings playstyle, but I think it will be better for him in the long run to convert to FS. The former Thorpe winner has demonstrated excellent ball skills throughout his time in college, getting 8 picks in 2015. At FS, he would be able to both play overtop and occasionally walk down and cover the slot.
Round 3:
Carroll Phillips, DE/OLB, Illnois
While his teammate Dawume Smoot has gotten more attention as of recently, Phillips was by far the more impact player the last year. After serving as a backup to Jihad Ward in 2015, Phillip broke out in 2016 with 9 sacks. I think Phillips is a player that could benefit with a move to 3-4 backer.
Rasul Douglas, CB, WVU
Douglas broke out in 2016 as an interception machine. He's still really raw and had some poor games in 2016, but there is no denying his talent. If he can develop, he could turn into a starting level corner.
Round 4:
De'veon Smith, RB, Michigan
I feel running back is a position that is an underrated need for the Ravens. I really like De'veon Smith. He's an excellent and willing pass blocker. He catches well coming out of the backfield. He had great showings at the Shrine and Senior Bowls to really boost his stock. He doesn't have a ton of wear on his track. One might pause at his production numbers, but Michigan consistently faced great defenses this season will pretty poor offense line play. I don't think he'll be a superstar, but he could be a very nice piece to have with Kenneth Dixon andTerrence West.
Round 5
Tanzel Smart, DT, Tulane
A sort of semi-homer pick because I do go to Tulane, but Smart was a force for the Green Waves this past year. He was the best DL in the AAC not named Ed Oliver. He'd Be a good player to add to the rotation.
Round 6
Jalen Reeves-Maybin. LB, Tenn
While undersized and injured this past year, Reeves-Maybin has been a star for Tennessee. With Orr retiring, it's worth taking a late round flier on a talented player.
Round 7
CJ Beathard, QB,Iowa
I'm not sure how Beathard will pan out in the pros, but I like his tools and its a 7th rounder.