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OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Ravens have the 22nd overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and have an opportunity to pick a playmaking cornerback or wide receiver with that selection.
Overall, Baltimore has 5 picks in the upcoming draft and is an early pick in Rounds 1 and 3. Their 2nd and 5th round picks were traded to the Chicago Bears in exchange for linebacker Lokan Smith. Nominated in the 7th round.
The Ravens are expected to receive no compensatory draft picks for the first time since 2010.
Baltimore needs a playmaking wide receiver, but has two wideouts in the last four drafts and may decide to pursue one in free agency.
The Ravens only finished 22nd in their history in 2005 when they selected wide receiver Mark Clayton from Oklahoma.
Here are the Ravens’ potential targets in the 2023 draft:
Devon Witherspoon, cornerback, IL
break down: Witherspoon is a physical cornerback that fits into Ravens culture. Witherspoon’s size poses some concerns — 6-foot-1, 180 pounds — but he makes up for it with his speed and coverage skills.
Russie Rice, wide receiver, SMU
break down: Rice — 6-2, 203 pounds — is a solid route runner, catching 96 passes in 12 games last season for 1,355 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. He can make an impact immediately. Rice runs 4.3-40.
Joey Porter Jr. corner backPennsylvania
break down:
Jackson Smith-Nigba, wide receiver, Ohio State University
break down: Smith-Nigba was hampered by a hamstring injury last season, but he still has a huge advantage and is considered a first-round pick. Smith Nigba set a Big His Ten record as his sophomore in 2021 with 1,606 receiving yards.
Cation Butte, wide receiver, LSU
break down: Boutte caught 48 passes for 538 yards and scored two touchdowns during the 2022 season. He has the potential to top the defense and break through the game.
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