2022 NFL Draft: Grading the Ravens’ No. 14 pick of Kyle Hamilton

The Baltimore Ravens select Kyle Hamilton with the 14th pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Was this one of the better picks of round one?

Isaiah Simmons was going through the draft process; he was asked what position he plays. “Defense,” Simmons replied slyly. The same can be said of Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton. Many scouts had Hamilton as the top prospect in this draft.

Hamilton is one of the more versatile defenders in this draft. He can cover his deep responsibilities, come down and cover the slot and cover tight ends. Hamilton has ridiculous range. His range is why his forty-time at the combine does not matter.

If there is any question about his speed, put on the Florida State tape and watch that interception. Hamilton is a natural ball-hawk with great instincts and a nose for the football. He is also a hitter. At 6-foot-4 and 220 pounds, he can put a lick on any offensive player with the football.

If there is any question about him playing safety, there is the possibility he could add weight to his frame and play linebacker.

How Kyle Hamilton fits with the Ravens

Wrestling commentator Jim “JR” Ross once said, “if he’s a talent, give him a jersey, and he’ll figure it out.” That can be said of Hamilton. The Ravens have two good safeties in Chuck Clark and Marcus Williams. That does not matter; you want that talent on your team.

Most defenses are multiple, and he could be a ROVER on defense with five defensive backs in its base formation. The truth is, you want that talent on your roster, and you figure it out later.

Grade: A