Ravens reinforce their identity with 2026 NFL draft class

There was never a plan to put together a flashy Baltimore Ravens’ 2026 NFL Draft class. That’s never been the point, yet, somehow, the flock managed to add a little pizazz anyway. Year after year, Eric DeCosta, Ozzie Newsome, and company approach the draft with a clear understanding of who it is, and more importantly, who it refuses to be. This year’s class may not have generated universal praise, but Baltimore earned something just as valuable. They earned respect. The tone was set early.

The Ravens' draft was all about identity.

First-round selection Vega Ioane immediately addressed one of the franchise's most pressing concerns, protecting Lamar Jackson. Baltimore has been at its best when its offensive line dictates terms, and Ioane's size and power project to do exactly that.

From there, the plan was to continue to build with intention. Zion Young's addition brought an edge in presence and attitude. He fits the mold of what Baltimore covets defensively. He's physical, relentless, and disruptive. It’s the kind of pick that feels less like a gamble and more like a cultural fit. Offensively, the team made a conscious effort to give Jackson more help.

Adding bigger-bodied receivers like Ja'Kobi Lane and Elijah Sarratt signals a shift toward contested-catch ability, something Baltimore has lacked at times. While Lane’s selection may raise eyebrows based on value, the vision behind it is clear. One of the NFL's more respected draft analysts gave them a 'B+' for their efforts.

"Ioane's size, strength, and nimble feet made him a solid mid-first round pick, though I do wonder if the Ravens might have been better off taking edge Rueben Bain Jr. at 14 and meeting the need for a guard later on. I wasn't sure about the value of Baltimore's Day 2 selections. Still, with his strength and length, Young meets the team's pass-rush need, while Lane is a tall jump-ball king who could be a major threat in the red zone."