The Ravens' game plan heading into the NFL Draft next month is wide open after the moves this offseason.
General Manager Ozzie Newsome has addressed the glaring needs on both sides of the ball, and now the Ravens can enter the draft focused on taking the best player available rather than picking based on need.
Their offseason moves have given them flexibility when they are on the clock, so who would you like to see the Ravens draft at pick No 17?
Here are some of the top names linked to Baltimore by the draft experts in various mock drafts, should they be available when the Ravens are on the clock.
Tight End Eric Ebron, North CarolinaEbron is a dangerous weapon in the passing game and he creates mismatches for opposing defenses. Ebron is better known for his pass-catching ability rather than his skills as a blocker. He is regarded by many draft analysts as a likely top-10 pick, so there's a decent chance he's gone by the time the Ravens are up.
OT Taylor Lewan, MichiganLewan is regarded as one of the top three offensive tackles in the draft, and he could fill an immediate need at right tackle. Lewan's draft stock may have taken a hit because of ongoing legal issues stemming from an altercation in December. If the off-the-field issues drop Lewan to the middle of the first round, then the Ravens could snag him.
OT Zack Martin, Notre DameMartin was a four-year starter at Notre Dame who can play multiple positions along the line. His best spot in the NFL could be at guard because he is slightly undersized as a tackle. He has drawn some comparisons to Ravens All-Pro right guard Marshal Yanda.
S Ha Ha Clinton-DixClinton-Dix is a free safety with good size and speed to roam the middle of the field. He was highly productive in college and already has familiarity with an NFL-style defense after playing for Nick Saban at Alabama. Clinton-Dix could also be paired with Elam as the Ravens' starting safeties.
WR Marqise Lee, USCLee was one of the top receivers in the country during his college football career, and many draft experts think he has the skills to immediately translate to the NFL game. Lee's stock dipped a little after the NFL Scouting Combine because of a slower than expected time in the 40-yard dash, but he could still be a valuable addition to the receiving corps.
WR Brandin Cooks, Oregon StateCooks' stock went on the rise after running the 40-yard dash in 4.33 seconds at the combine. He's a speedy receiver that can play inside and outside, and he is a similar player to new Raven Steve Smith, Sr. The Ravens no longer have a significant need at receiver because of the addition of Smith, but Cooks could use this year to develop and learn from the proven veteran.
WR Mike Evans, Texas A&MEvans was linked to the Ravens in the early round of mock drafts, but his stock also rose after the combine thanks to impressive measurables [add]and a solid 40-yard dash time. Evans likely moved himself into the top-10 range, but the Ravens may target him if he happens to slide in the first round.
