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Should Ravens play it safe or swing for the fences in the NFL Draft?
TL;DR
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Baltimore Ravens are considering whether to stick with their traditional focus on the offensive line and pass rush or to take a risk on more explosive playmakers. With Lamar Jackson in his prime, there are calls for the team to pursue dynamic talent like Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love.
The Baltimore Ravens are one of the NFL's most consistent organizations—but consistency can sometimes look like predictability. As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, early reports suggest Baltimore will once again prioritize offensive line or pass rush. It's a proven formula, but it raises a bigger question: are the Ravens playing it too safe?
The organization could use more star power at the wide receiver position, while a big swing at the running back wouldn't be out of the question with Derrick Henry, 32 years old and on the back half of his career. With Lamar Jackson in his prime, some believe the team should be more aggressive in adding explosive weapons or dynamic playmakers. Baltimore has traded up four times in pursuit of a player they covet, and 2026 offers several prospects who could elevate the Ravens while smashing Eric DeCosta's "best player available" approach. If Baltimore decides to move away from continuing to lean into its identity—physical, disciplined, and built through the trenches, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love could be a home run swing.
Henry is a future Hall of Famer who is also 32 and set to begin his first year under a new, revamped coaching staff and offensive system. Baltimore could make a move to secure their first if the former Notre Dame running back slips past five or six. Love is an explosive runner who possesses great burst and acceleration, with the top-end speed to run away from opposing defenders. Love was a Heisman Finalist, a Doak Walker Award winner, and a Maxwell Award Finalist. He earned Unanimous All-American and Consensus All-American honors. During the season, he started all 12 games at running back and broke the program record for total touchdowns in a season with 21. He also tied the program record for rushing touchdowns with 18. Love led the team with 1,372 rushing yards on 199 carries, averaging 6.9 yards per carry. Additionally, he finished fourth on the team with 27 receptions, totaling 280 receiving yards, and amassing 1,652 yards from scrimmage.
The building-through-the-trenches approach wins games. But does it win championships in today's NFL?
The Ravens don't need a good draft. They may need a bold one.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens should swing for the fences with a blockbuster NFL draft trade
Q&A
What are the Baltimore Ravens' draft priorities for 2026?
The Ravens are expected to prioritize the offensive line or pass rush, but there is debate about whether they should also target explosive playmakers.
Who is Jeremiyah Love and why is he a potential draft target for the Ravens?
Jeremiyah Love is a highly regarded running back from Notre Dame, known for his explosive speed and record-breaking performance, making him a potential game-changing addition for the Ravens.
How does Derrick Henry's age affect the Ravens' draft strategy?
At 32 years old, Derrick Henry is nearing the end of his career, prompting discussions about whether the Ravens should invest in a younger, dynamic running back like Jeremiyah Love to bolster their offense.