The Baltimore Ravens are nearing the 2026 NFL Draft with a focus on refining a roster that has remained competitive in recent seasons. While the team is known for its depth and consistency, a closer look has revealed a surprising need that could influence its draft strategy.
Attention has turned to the secondary, where changes in personnel have created questions about long-term stability. Despite a strong defensive identity, the Ravens are evaluating how to maintain balance across all levels of the unit.
Baltimore Ravens, Jesse Minter, NFL
Jan 29, 2026; Owings Mills, MD, USA; Jesse Minter and father Rick Minter post press conference at Under Armour Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Lexi Thompson-Imagn Images
The potential need at safety has emerged as an area worth addressing, particularly as the team considers both depth and future development. Adding talent at the position could help reinforce a defense that relies heavily on versatility and communication.
Several prospects have been identified as possible fits, especially those who can contribute in multiple roles. The team has historically valued players who can adapt within its defensive schemes, making versatility a key factor in its evaluations.
NFL Analysis Reveal Baltimore Ravens’ Potential Targets to Fill Surprising Need
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Mar 31, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Head coach Jesse Minter during the 2026 NFL Annual League Meeting at the Arizona Biltmore. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Baltimore will have to target certain players in the draft to address a surprising need. This is detailed more in an analysis by Alex Ballentine for Bleacher Report.
Surprising Need: Safety
Potential Targets
Zakee Wheatley, Penn State (7.7)
Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina (7.5)
Kamari Ramsey, USC (7.5)
Kyle Hamilton is one of the best safeties in the league, but he’s at his best when the Ravens can unleash him all over the field. Finding a third safety who can play with Hamilton and Malakai Starks on the field is an underrated need for the Ravens.
They signed Jaylinn Hawkins to a two-year contract in free agency, but there’s an out in the deal after the first season. If the 29-year-old doesn’t fit the role or there’s a younger, cheaper option, the Ravens can easily get out of the contract.
That could be a consideration if the Ravens use a draft pick to add to the room. Hawkins provides a nice floor for the position, but his ceiling is already established.
B/R scout Daniel Harms praised Zakee Wheatley’s ability to defend the run, but also be a playmaker as a centerfielder.
“His single-high ability, paired with his instincts, let him flow around the back end of the defense. Has real range to make plays.”
Jalon Kilgore is the kind of physical player that the Ravens like to go after. Kamari Ramsey is another option who could play deep and provide more playmaking in coverage.
This approach aligns with the organization’s broader philosophy of building through the draft while maintaining flexibility. Addressing a less obvious need could strengthen the roster in ways that extend beyond immediate impact.
As the draft approaches, the Ravens appear poised to target players who can enhance both depth and long-term stability. Their ability to identify the right additions could play a significant role in sustaining their defensive success moving forward.