Grading Ravens, Eric DeCosta’s strong 2020 NFL Draft haul

Ravens Round 4, pick 143: Ben Bredeson | Offensive Guard | Michigan

Just like the Malik Harrison selection before it, this Ravens draft pick is another attempt at doubling down on a position that needs talent and depth. The loss of Marshal Yanda is a massive one, considering he’s a potential future Hall of Fame player. Adding Phillips was an attempt at getting a versatile, high-ceiling prospect at the position, but grabbing Bredeson was an attempt at selecting almost the opposite prospect.

Bredeson started over 40 games for the Wolverines, showing steady and reliable play against the stout competition in the Big Ten. He’s a strong player that maintains solid balance and leverage with consistency. While he lacks elite athleticism, he’s still a steady player. Without a doubt, he’s at least a fantastic depth option. But the Ravens have two chances at filling Yanda’s shoes.

Phillips is a strong pick. But Bredeson, here in the fourth, is just as good if not better value.

Grade: A

Ravens Round 5, pick 170: Broderick Washington | DL | Washington State

Adding Broderick Washington was possibly the more questionable draft pick of their entire haul. He’s an athletic defensive lineman with good pass-rushing potential at the pro level. Especially considering his length, he can be a surprising gap-penetrator as a substitute rusher on third down. Considering, however, that the Ravens could’ve added a pass rusher like Bradlee Anae or even stocked up on another receiving weapon, adding to an already stacked positional group didn’t seem like an ideal selection here.

Grade: C

Ravens Round 6, pick 201: James Proche | Wide receiver | SMU

Considering the potential that James Proche presents, grabbing him in the sixth round is a tremendous steal. He’s a solid, versatile threat that possesses good route-running savvy and very impressive, strong hands. His best traits, however, are his insane ball skills, tracking ability, and body control. Proche can contort himself and track the ball well, with excellent hand-eye coordination to make highlight-reel catches. He has good potential to play inside or out, and is a solid depth option.

Grade: B+

Ravens Round 7, pick 219: Geno Stone | Safety | Iowa

Stone is one of the more confusing prospects on tape to watch. He’s a solid player that screams mid-round potential in terms of his instincts. But, for some reason, he was commonly mocked as a day three pick. Stone presents good range and football intelligence, but he’s an impressive hitter that lays the boom and presents infectious energy. Stone is a great pick this late and can be a strong depth addition to a solid secondary.

Grade: A

Altogether, the Ravens’ 2020 NFL Draft haul could have grabbed up better prospects in some rounds. But overall, they made logical picks that fit their schemes and that can grow under the tutelage of John Harbaugh and his coaching staff.