Daily discussion thread: how should the Ravens use their 1st-round pick?

Join today’s conversation about the Ravens’ plan for their first-round pick in the 2026 draft!

Summarized by AI ⓘ

What is the story about?

Earlier today, Baltimore Beatdown shared a few recent mock drafts that projected top wide receiver prospects as the Ravens’ selection with the 14th overall pick. Now, we want to know your thoughts on today’s discussion question: how should the Ravens use their first-round pick?

Typically, the Ravens’ first-round pick comes in the mid- to late-20s, so having the No. 14 pick is a rare opportunity for Eric DeCosta to add a premium talent. The team has only picked higher than 14th once in the last 20 drafts.

Baltimore had the same slot in 2022 and selected All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton after a surprising fall out of the top 10. The roster clearly needs pass rushing help and another guard, but the latter may not be a good value with such a high draft pick. Does a top prospect at another premium position enter the fray, or do the Ravens go with a true best-player-available approach and take a safety or linebacker?

Nikhil’s take: Obviously, the Ravens should be looking to add an impact pass rusher with the No. 14 pick. A wide receiver would be a worthwhile investment, too. But every year, players from those positions fly up draft boards after strong performances at the Combine. Closer scrutiny of others reveals they are not true first-round talents. By the time Baltimore is on the clock, a pass rusher or wide receiver who is truly worth the 14th overall pick may not be available. If those positions are heavily targeted in the first 13 picks, the Ravens may have a chance at a legitimate defensive playmaker at another position. Linebackers Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles and safety Caleb Downs could all fit that bill. Reese and Styles are versatile, athletic linebackers who could continue the franchise’s history of strong play at the position. Their presence in Baltimore would allow the team to consider moving on from Roquan Smith in 2027. Downs, meanwhile, feels like over-investment in the safety position, but it is clear that the Ravens’ defense needs a third safety to allow Kyle Hamilton to play a ‘Star’ role closer to the line of scrimmage. Downs could pair with Malaki Starks to be the best deep safety duo in the NFL.

What do you think? Should the Ravens even consider using their first-round pick on one of the three players mention above, or should they stick to their top need and/or premium positions? Join the discussion in the comments section below and be sure to check back throughout the day to continue the conversation!