Ravens NFL Draft watch: 7 names gaining steam before first round

The Baltimore Ravens are closely monitoring a shifting draft landscape as several prospects gain momentum in the final days before Round 1. Rising players — fueled by strong pro days, interviews, and late evaluations — can dramatically reshape the board for GM Eric DeCosta, potentially impacting Baltimore's options at pick No. 14. Whether it's a wide receiver climbing into the top tier or an offensive lineman surging up draft boards, these late risers could force the Ravens to adjust their approach in real time.

For Baltimore, the challenge lies in balancing value with need and the best player available. General manager Eric DeCosta has consistently shown patience, allowing the board to come to him while staying ready to pivot if necessary. With multiple prospects gaining steam, the Ravens could find themselves with an unexpected prospect falling within their range — or face a situation where they must act aggressively to secure a targeted player. Either way, the late movement across the league adds another layer of intrigue to Baltimore's draft strategy.

With the NFL Draft approaching, several prospects are gaining late momentum and could be in play for the Ravens earlier than expected.

Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State

A Savannah, Georgia native, Hurst earned All-Sun Belt First Team Offense and was the first-ever Georgia State Athlete to be named to the College Football Freaks List.

Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State

Ioane plays with intense power and quickness, using 330 pounds of elite force, earning second-team All-America honors from the Walter Camp Football Foundation as an offensive guard. Ioane is the 158th Nittany Lion (192nd selection) to be named an All-American by an NCAA-recognized outlet (AFCA, Associated Press, FWAA, The Sporting News, Walter Camp Football Foundation). Ioane was selected to the All-Big Ten Second Team in 2024 and to the Honorable Mention Team in 2023. He'll exit State College after playing in 44 games and making 32 starts at Penn State. According to PFF, he allowed zero sacks and three pressures in 310 pass blocking snaps in 2025.