We’re just getting back to actual players on actual fields as training camps begin to open around the league. But even though attention is focused on what will happen in a difficult and unusual 2020 NFL season, it’s never too early to look further ahead. That’s precisely what Jacob Infante of Draft Wire did, predicting how the 2021 NFL Draft could look.
Using current Super Bowl LV odds, the Baltimore Ravens hold the last spot in the first round. Though Infante notes Baltimore could, and probably should, continue to address their interior offensive line after the loss of Marshal Yanda this offseason, he couldn’t help but give quarterback Lamar Jackson another weapon.
With the No. 32 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Infante has the Ravens selecting Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith.
“The Alabama standout is a precise and smart route runner with solid athletic ability who would give Baltimore another talented weapon to make their offense even more dangerous.”
Smith is fresh off a pretty impressive 2019 campaign where he caught 68 passes for 1,256 yards and 14 receiving touchdowns. Returning for his senior year, Smith should get a top spot in Alabama’s offense and more targets. If that happens, Smith might simply not be available this late in the first round.
Though it’s a very early mock draft and anything can happen between now and the 2021 NFL Draft, the Ravens will likely have far bigger needs elsewhere. Baltimore is pretty well situated at wide receiver after taking two in each of the last three drafts. However, pass rusher and all along the defensive line could be more pressing positions for the Ravens next year.
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