The 2013 NFL Draft is finally here. This draft is particularly important for the Baltimore Ravens, as they are trying to build for the future while still maintaining a roster capable of winning back-to-back Super Bowls.
That process starts on Thursday night.
Barring a trade to move up, the Ravens will be on the clock for the first time with the 32nd pick. If the Ravens elect to stay put and not trade back, there will be several intriguing options available.
Here are five players who would be best-case scenarios for the Ravens if they are available.
Arthur Brown, LB, Kansas State
Drafting Arthur Brown seems to be a highly unlikely scenario, as he is one of the draft’s best defensive players. However, if Brown were on the board when the Ravens pick at 32, taking him would be a no-brainer. He’d automatically be the Ravens’ best inside linebacker and will be the impact defender in the middle of the defense that the Ravens need after Ray Lewis’ departure.
Jonathan Cyprien, S, Florida International
Adding a strong safety is one of the main necessities for the Ravens during this year’s draft, and Jonathan Cyprien fits the bill. The heavy-hitting ball hawk has a playing style similar to Ed Reed and could end up being the best safety in this year’s draft class. This is another easy selection if the FIU Golden Panther is available.
Keenan Allen, WR, California
The only offensive player on this list, Keenan Allen appears to be one of the most likely possibilities for the Ravens with the 32nd pick. Once considered a possible top-15 pick, Allen’s stock has drop due to concerns about his speed and a failed drug test at the combine. However, don’t let those things fool you. Allen is still the best pure wide receiver in the draft has enough speed to be a deep threat in the NFL. If he falls to the Ravens, it’d be hard for them to pass on him.
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Manti Te’o, LB, Notre Dame
Assuming that Brown is likely off the board when the Ravens are on the clock, Manti Te’o could be an option if the Ravens look to address the inside linebacker position in the first round. Te’o isn’t the impactful player that Brown is, but he is still a well-rounded player without many flaws and would be a presence in the middle of the Baltimore defense from day one.
Jamar Taylor, CB, Boise State
A dark horse pick had to be thrown in here, and Jamar Taylor is that guy. Perhaps the most well-rounded, polished cornerback in this year’s draft, it’s unlikely that Taylor will be available when the Ravens are on the clock. However, in what could be a traditional “best player available” pick, Taylor would greatly improve the Ravens defense from day one. While cornerback isn’t necessarily a need for Baltimore, getting Taylor would still be a tremendous value pick.
