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Draft day has finally arrived!
This is considered a crucial draft for the Baltimore Ravens franchise by many. After winning at least one playoffs game in each of head coach John Harbaugh’s first five seasons with the club, the Ravens have missed the playoffs entirely in three of the last four years and have a losing record overall in this timeframe. The Ravens roster is in need of reinforcements along the offensive line, wide receiver and pass rusher.
The 2017 draft class is loaded with first round talent on the defensive side of the ball, especially edge rushers and cornerbacks. Ozzie Newsome and his front office have been uncharacteristically aggressive in free agency, yet still oversee an incomplete roster. Tonight could put their best-player-available strategy to the ultimate test if the board falls in an unfavorable order. And of course, the Ravens are always interested in dealing if the trade value is right.
Cleveland will go on the clock at 8pm. The Ravens turn to draft with the 16th overall pick should arrive sometime between 9:45 and 10:30 ET, depending on how quickly the teams before them make their selections. Which transcendent talent will be wearing purple by the end of the night? Can’t wait to find out!
Conversation starters:
- Who will be the 2017 Offensive rookie of the year? Defensive?
- Name one player you would love the Ravens to draft in the first round? Hate?
- Which AFC team is poised to make the leap into championship contention with a strong draft? NFC?
- Name one player who you hope does not end up on the Steelers? Bengals? Browns?
- Who is your favorite NFL draft expert? Least favorite?