After shoring up the offensive line with their first-round pick, the Ravens filled a more obvious need with their first pick of the second round, OLB Kamalei Correa from Boise State.
Correa, the 42nd overall selection, enters an aging Ravens linebacker corps and adds a much needed pass-rushing and edge-setting presence for Dean Pees’ defense.
The 6-3, 245-pound linebacker started and appeared in all 13 games for Boise State in 2013, recording a team-leading 7.0 sacks and 11 tackles for losses. Kamalei finished his three-year collegiate career with 20 sacks and five forced fumbles.
Per Pro Football Focus, the Boise standout had the No. 11 pass-rush productivity score among 4-3 DEs and earned a +5.1 grade against Power-5 teams last season, showing well against the best competition. Several draft experts had a first-round grade on the young linebacker.
Gritty and determined, Correa wants the Ravens to know exactly what kind of player they are getting with their 42nd overall pick.
“They picked a guy who’s a hard worker, who ain’t going to stop, who’s dedicated and who is going to help them win a Super Bowl.” said an excited Correa in his press conference with the Baltimore media. “I would say my main strength is my intensity and my edge. I always have an edge to get the ball. I’m a see-ball-get-ball pick.”
The news of being selected by the Ravens came as quite a shock to the Hawaii native, who met with the Ravens at the combine but had no clue just how interested they were in him.
“I met with them at the combine,” remarked Kamalei. “I had a great feel for their coaching staff, and that was the last I heard from them.
“I was just looking forward to the draft, and now I’m a Raven. I can’t tell you guys how excited I am and how blessed I am for this opportunity.”
A natural as a 3-4 outside linebacker, Correa is excited to learn from veterans Terrell Suggs and Elvis Dumervil.
“I’m extremely excited. I’ve been watching these guys since I’ve been in middle school,” exclaimed Correa. I just can’t tell you guys how excited I am to work with them, and how excited I am to play for coach [John] Harbaugh and all those coaches.
“It’s just an overwhelming experience. I am so lost for words right now.”
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