Ravens could stick to a familiar draft strategy by picking a CB early

At some point, you'd think the Baltimore Ravens would pivot. They've invested heavily in the secondary. Maybe this is the year that they tackle other needs on days one and two of the NFL draft. Then again, maybe it isn't. The depth of talent at every position in the upcoming NFL Draft certainly shifts the conversation. This draft class will run out of great DBs faster than it runs out of pass rushers or offensive linemen.

Baltimore has used first-round picks. mid-round selections. undrafted additions to satisfy their secondary concerns. It’s been a steady stream of defensive backs entering the building over the past several years. And yet, here we are again, talking about the possibility of them doing it all over. History says it’s not just possible they draft another DB and do so early. History says it's likely. That said it seems sensible to ask an obvious question.

The Ravens wouldn't dare invest more early draft capital into the secondary, would they?

Baltimore has used first-round capital on defensive backs in three of the last four drafts. In total, they've added seven more DBs via the draft and another 15 as undrafted free agents. That's not accidental. They've done so because, at times, they've found difficulty wedging a revolving door.

Even after all of that, the Ravens still found themselves needing to re-sign Chidobe Awuzie this offseason. This came after enduring stretches last season where opposing passing attacks found consistent success. There's also the Marlon Humphrey angle. Will he be back? Will Baltimore move on? These are all questions that keep this conversation alive.

You can argue that other positions carry a more immediate need. You'd be correct if you did. Offensive line... Edge rusher. Wide receiver. All fair. But the Ravens have long believed they can find value at those spots throughout the draft. The secondary, on the other hand, is where they've consistently been willing to spend premium resources.

And then there's the approach. General manager Eric DeCosta has remained committed to a best-player-available philosophy. If the highest-rated prospect on their board happens to be a defensive back when they’re on the clock, history suggests they won't hesitate, especially in today's NFL.