Steve Davis: Now That The Dust Has Settled On Ravens Draft
I've been curious to see what the reaction would be on the Ravens draft, and wanted to wait a few days and then gauge the reaction. I think people are calming down a little, because right after the draft, fans were disappointed they didn't do more to improve the off-season. Now that the pundits have said the Ravens got some very good defensive players, people are starting to modify their opinion.
That said, the majority of people still wish the Ravens did more to address the offense. I don't disagree, but I am glad the Ravens didn't force the issue. To me, the draft isn't to address this year's concerns. That's what free agency is for. Sure, you can expect your first round pick to start right away, but that is about it. What you hope with the draft is that a few players can contribute immediately on special teams or as role players on offense and defense, but then develop into starters in a year or two.
So, a guy like Jernigan might play somewhat this year, but your hope is that he replaces Canty next year. The other thing you hope with the draft is that you get a couple of game changers, no matter what the position. I don't think the Ravens set out to draft their first 3 players on the defense. But, Mosley has a chance to be a Pro Bowler. The Ravens haven't drafted a player that turned into a Pro Bowler since 2008. I'd rather have a Pro Bowl linebacker on a team that already has 2 starting linebackers, than a starting offensive lineman, who is just that, a starter, but not a great player.
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