Eric DeCosta says Nnamdi Madubuike won't alter Ravens draft plans

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said Nnamdi Madubuike's status heading into the 2026 season will not significantly impact how Baltimore approaches the defensive tackle position in the draft, emphasizing that the team will continue to rely on its overall board rather than roster uncertainty.

DeCosta noted that while adding young talent along the defensive line remains a priority, the Ravens’ approach at the position will be dictated by value and how the board unfolds.

"So, I would say that Nnamdi [Madubuike]'s status doesn't really affect us that much in terms of like what we're going to do in the draft at the defensive tackle position. So, as you know, we just try to rank the board, and then [we'll select] whoever the best player is at that point in time. Certainly, we would love to get a young defensive lineman if we can. I think it's important to try and do that every single year if we can. It's an important position. We want to get better up front, certainly, on both sides, offense- and defensive-line-wise; it's a priority for us. I think getting a younger player in there who's a talented younger player would be ideal, and it just depends on how the board falls and who's available at that time."

For Baltimore, the emphasis remains on drafting the best available player, with defensive line depth still viewed as a consistent long-term need rather than a reaction to any one player's availability.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens' say NFL draft plans are not tied to Nnamdi Madubuike