NFL Mock Draft 2018: Complete 7-Round projections

The collection of pass catchers in Baltimore is lacking, at best. The signing of former Oakland Raiders wideout Michael Crabtree to a 3-year deal this offseason will help, but more firepower is needed. Chris Moore, Michael Campanaro and Quincy Adeboyejo aren’t nearly enough weapons for quarterback Joe Flacco. Midway through the first round, the Ravens will have their pick of prospective pass catchers, and set their sights on Alabama wide receiver Calvin Ridley.

Ridley’s collegiate stats were limited by deficient quarterback play. Jalen Hurts was a runner first who wasn’t able to take full advantage of Ridley’s vast array of abilities. His separation is NFL-caliber and his speed makes him a dangerous proposition on the edge. Ridley has All-Pro upside, and has already proven he can dominate elite SEC corners.

Pairing Ridley with Crabtree would set the Ravens up for success through the air. Cratbree’s size and physicality contrasted with Ridley’s speed and incredible poise with the ball in space will force opposing defenses to ease up on Flacco and the run game.