Former Clemson running back becomes NFL owners first ever draft pick

For years, Steve Bisciotti has watched the Ravens’ draft unfold from the inside, sitting in the room, listening to discussions and watching decisions get made.

This time, he didn’t just observe.

Baltimore’s owner was finally handed control of a pick late in the draft, getting the opportunity he had been asking for. When the fifth round rolled around and the No. 174 selection came up, Bisciotti stepped in and made the call, choosing former Clemson offensive weapon Adam Randall.

General manager Eric DeCosta said the moment had been building for a while. Bisciotti wasn’t just casually interested either, he treated it like anyone else in the building would, going through film, gathering input and leaning on his connection with Clemson’s program before settling on Randall.

The decision itself reflects a bit of a projection pick.

Randall didn’t follow a typical path in college. He spent most of his early career lined up at wide receiver before gradually being worked into the backfield. That experiment turned into something more permanent, and by his final season, he had taken on a full workload at running back while still showing the traits of a pass-catcher.

That hybrid background is what gives him intrigue at the next level. At his size, he doesn’t fit the mold of a traditional third-down back, but his receiving ability and comfort in space open up options. Add in his experience returning kicks, and it’s easy to see why Baltimore views him as more than just depth.

Production followed the transition as well. In his final year, Randall topped 800 rushing yards and reached double-digit touchdowns, while still contributing through the air. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways is what ultimately made him stand out in a crowded late-round pool.

Now he heads to a backfield that already features established pieces, which should give him time to carve out a role. Between his size, versatility and late growth at the position, the Ravens are betting there’s still more there to unlock, and Bisciotti made sure he was the one to take that chance.