The 2012 NFL Draft is in the books and the Baltimore Ravens came away with 8 players. Much anticipation surrounded the team’s first round pick. But, it never came. The Ravens traded it to the Minnesota Vikings for the 3rd pick in the 3rd and 4th rounds. This was a smart move because the New England Patriots traded up to take Dont’a Hightower, ILB out of Alabama, a player that the Ravens wanted. Let’s see how the Ravens responded:
Courtney Upshaw DE (Alabama) – drafted 35th overall and arguably one of the steals in this draft. Upshaw is exactly what the Ravens were looking for to play opposite Terrell Suggs.
Kelechi Osemele OG (Iowa State) – drafted 60th overall and while not a sexy pick, it was definitely a necessary one with the loss of Ben Grubbs to the New Orleans Saints.
Bernard Pierce RB (Temple) – drafted 84th overall, this was a bit of a head scratcher. I know Ricky Williams is gone. But, who doesn’t want to see what Damien Berry and Anthony Allen can do?
Gino Gradkowski OG (Delaware) – drafted 98th overall and a bit of a reach. But, another need checked off at this spot. Gradkowski provides O-line depth and can take over for Matt Birk in the future.
Christian Thompson S (South Carolina) – drafted 130th overall and can make an impact on special teams.
Asa Jackson CB (Cal Poly) – drafted 169th overall and can possibly handle kick/punt return duties.
Tommy Streeter WR Miami (FL) – drafted 198th overall and possibly the red zone threat the Ravens were looking for to complement the speedy Torrey Smith.
Deangelo Tyson DT (Georgia) – drafted 236 overall and provides depth behind Arthur Jones and Pernell McPhee. Tyson also fills the void left by Corey Redding going to the Indianapolis Colts.
My grade: B+. The Ravens front office continued to show why they are one of the best teams in the business when it comes to drafting talent. Even with the trade, I feel like the Ravens had a solid draft and I’m looking forward to watching this team take shape!
