In 2024, the Baltimore Ravens won the AFC North and were considered one of the best teams in the league. Despite their success, the team fell short of their ultimate goal of winning the Super Bowl and suffered an earlier-than-expected playoff exit. Moving forward to 2025, the team continues to have high hopes due to maintaining one of the best rosters in the league. During free agency, the Ravens were limited in their ability to make significant moves due to cap constraints. The team’s most important move was re-signing left tackle Ronnie Stanley, with wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins also joining the team.
As the Ravens prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, they have the No. 27 pick in the first round and various directions they can take. However, there are certain players that the team should avoid selecting in the first round. Players like Trey Amos, a cornerback from Ole Miss, may be available but should not be a priority for the Ravens given the depth already present at the position. Similarly, edge rusher Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M has potential but may not be necessary for a team with young pass-rushers in need of development like David Ojabo and Tavius Robinson.
Running back Omarion Hampton from North Carolina is another talented prospect, frequently mocked in the first round. While Hampton could be a tempting selection given his potential, the Ravens should focus on addressing more pressing needs with their first-round pick. Likewise, safety Malaki Starks from Georgia is a strong prospect, but concerns about his performance in 2025 suggest the Ravens should wait to add depth at the position. With Kyle Hamilton and Ar’Darius Washington already in the lineup, the team has a solid foundation at safety.
Overall, as the Ravens look ahead to the 2025 season, they are focused on building on their success from the previous year and addressing any weaknesses to make a deeper run in the playoffs. While the team has limited cap space in free agency, retaining key players like Ronnie Stanley and adding talent like DeAndre Hopkins has bolstered their roster. As they approach the draft, the Ravens have the opportunity to add impact players with their first-round pick, but they must be strategic in addressing their most critical needs. By making smart draft decisions and continuing to develop their young talent, the Ravens aim to position themselves as Super Bowl contenders in the upcoming season.
