Baltimore,Su – April 20, 2025
The Baltimore Ravens are poised to make a splash in the 2025 NFL Draft, with analysts spotlighting a dynamic defensive back as their ideal second-round pick. This under-the-radar talent, dubbed a “game-changer” by Moe Moton of Bleacher Report, could transform Baltimore’s secondary, sources say.
The Ravens’ pass defense struggled in 2024, ranking among the NFL’s worst early in the season, allowing nearly 300 yards per game. Despite a late-season surge, the departure of Geno Stone in free agency left gaps. Kyle Hamilton, a Pro Bowl safety, anchors the unit, but Ar’Darius Washington has yet to fully solidify the back end.
Enter a versatile defender from Notre Dame, a former teammate of Hamilton. This 24-year-old standout recorded 13 interceptions and 134 tackles over his final two college seasons, earning the 2024 Bronko Nagurski Trophy as the nation’s top defensive player. His ability to play safety and slot makes him a perfect fit for Baltimore’s scheme.
Moton projects the Ravens to snag this prospect at pick No. 59, calling him a “potential steal.” His range, instincts, and ball skills complement Hamilton, creating a formidable safety tandem. Their prior chemistry at Notre Dame could accelerate his integration, addressing a critical need for Eric DeCosta’s squad.
With 11 draft picks, including five in the first four rounds, DeCosta has flexibility to target this defender without sacrificing early selections. The Ravens’ GM praised the 2025 safety class as “pretty deep,” contrasting some analysts’ views, signaling confidence in finding value beyond the first round.
The prospect’s versatility mirrors Hamilton’s, offering defensive coordinator Zach Orr options to counter pass-heavy offenses like the Kansas City Chiefs. In 2024, Baltimore’s 12-5 campaign ended in a playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, underscoring the need for secondary upgrades to compete in the AFC.
Critics note the draft’s weaker safety class, with names like Malaki Starks and Jonas Sanker drawing attention, but supporters argue this Notre Dame star’s production and fit outweigh concerns. His trophy-winning pedigree suggests immediate impact, vital for a Super Bowl contender.
As the April 24-26 draft nears, Eric DeCosta’s focus on this defensive gem could redefine Baltimore’s defense. Pairing him with Hamilton may unlock a shutdown secondary, giving Lamar Jackson’s offense the support needed for a deep playoff run.
