Ravens' NFL draft needs reveal WR as a sneaky Round 1 option

The Baltimore Ravens could target a wide receiver early to address depth concerns behind their current playmakers. Last season, the Ravens' 175.6 yards per game passing ranked 27th in the NFL, and they had middle-of-the-pack success with a wide receiver corps that included Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, DeAndre Hopkins, Devontez Walker, Tylan Wallace, and LaJohntay Wester for the bulk of the season. The concerns about a potential upgrade stem from Bateman had a down year and even missed the AFC North title game due to illness. After a career year in 2024, Bateman finished last season with 13 games played, 12 starts, 38 targets, 19 receptions, 224 yards receiving, and two touchdowns.

Flowers is the biggest star of the group, logging back-to-back Pro Bowls after accounting for 85 catches, 1,211 yards, and five touchdowns, and he could become one of the highest-paid at his position. Still, the lack of development and opportunities for Devontez Walker and LaJohntay Wester will be something the new coach will need to watch.

Baltimore is so uncertain at wide receiver that there could be room to bring back DeAndre Hopkins, who had 39 catches for 330 yards and two touchdowns in 2025. Walker is on the cusp of a huge leap and needs the snaps as the big play option in Declan Doyle's offense. Adding another dynamic target could open up the offense, providing more balance and creating additional opportunities in the passing game.

With the NFL continuing to evolve toward pass-heavy schemes, teams are placing greater emphasis on having multiple reliable receiving options. The Ravens could follow that trend if the right player is available.

While it may not be the most predictable move, wide receiver is quietly gaining traction as a realistic early-round option.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens could address WR early in 2026 NFL Draft