With impressive performances in a variety of positions, the Ravens’ 2024 NFL rookie class demonstrated tremendous potential and received high PFF grades.

The Baltimore Ravens have built a strong reputation over the years as one of the most well-coached, stable franchises in the NFL. With a deep commitment to developing talent, especially through the draft, the Ravens have consistently found success by identifying players with the potential to contribute right away. The 2024 NFL rookie class has continued this tradition, as evidenced by their impressive performances across various positions and the high grades they received from Pro Football Focus (PFF).

PFF, known for its detailed player grading system that evaluates individual performances on every snap of the season, offers valuable insight into the impact of each rookie. With multiple positions covered, from quarterback to defensive line, the Ravens’ 2024 rookie class delivered strong performances that could potentially shape the franchise for years to come.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the standout rookies from the Ravens’ 2024 draft class, examining their individual journeys, their impact on the team, and how they performed according to PFF’s grading system. We’ll also assess how their successes this season could influence the Ravens’ future, both in the short term and in the long term.

1. Quarterback: Jalen Hurts’ Successor?

One of the most important picks of the 2024 NFL Draft for the Ravens was selecting a quarterback who could potentially step into the starting role after Lamar Jackson. While the Ravens made it clear that Jackson would remain the cornerstone of their offense for the foreseeable future, selecting a future quarterback was still a priority. Enter [Rookie QB Name], who was drafted in the [round].

During the preseason, [Rookie QB Name] displayed an impressive ability to read defenses, make accurate throws, and lead the offense in limited snaps. Throughout the regular season, although he did not start, he showed poise and potential during backup appearances and mop-up duty. His PFF grades reflected his progression, with strong marks for accuracy, decision-making, and overall quarterback play. With Lamar Jackson locked into the franchise for the foreseeable future, this rookie’s development will be a key storyline for years to come.

While not expected to start immediately, [Rookie QB Name] has given the Ravens reason to be optimistic about the future of their quarterback position. His PFF grades indicate a high football IQ, and his ability to remain calm under pressure shows that he could become a capable starter once Jackson’s eventual successor is needed.

2. Wide Receiver: A Dynamic Threat

The Ravens’ offense has long been known for its emphasis on the run game, but the addition of a dynamic wide receiver from the 2024 draft class could change the team’s offensive identity for the better. [Rookie WR Name], a standout at [college], was drafted in the [round] and immediately made an impact during training camp. By midseason, it was clear that he was ready to contribute at a high level.

His route-running ability, combined with impressive speed and hands, made him a viable deep threat in the Ravens’ offense. On top of his route-running acumen, he was also highly effective after the catch, demonstrating his ability to turn short passes into big gains. His PFF grades were consistently high across multiple games, with particular credit going to his ability to make plays when needed. His ability to contribute as a vertical threat in a run-heavy system gave the Ravens more balance on offense, which was critical for stretching the field and opening up running lanes for Jackson and the backfield.

His grades from PFF reflect his explosive potential, particularly his yards after catch (YAC) ability and his deep-threat presence. As a rookie, the fact that he was able to produce right away in this offense speaks volumes about his maturity and readiness to contribute at the professional level. As the Ravens move forward, [Rookie WR Name] could become one of the cornerstones of their receiving corps, giving them the playmaking ability needed to complement their dynamic rushing attack.

3. Offensive Line: Protecting the Franchise

As one of the most critical positions on the field, the offensive line plays a major role in the success of any NFL team. For the Ravens, protecting Lamar Jackson and ensuring that their ground game remains effective is paramount. This is why the selection of [Rookie OL Name], a versatile offensive lineman, was so important for the 2024 draft class.

[Rookie OL Name] was selected in the [round] and immediately became a key rotational piece along the offensive line. His versatility allowed him to play multiple positions across the line, including guard and tackle, filling in where needed and providing the team with much-needed depth. He was a powerful presence in both run-blocking and pass protection, an area where the Ravens had struggled at times in recent seasons. PFF’s grades showed that his ability to anchor the offensive line and provide solid protection was one of the main reasons the Ravens’ offense continued to function smoothly throughout the season.

The PFF grades for [Rookie OL Name] were consistently high, particularly in pass-blocking situations, where he was able to limit pressure on Jackson and provide clean pockets for him to operate. As the Ravens look to continue their success with Jackson at quarterback, having a reliable offensive line is crucial, and [Rookie OL Name] is well-positioned to be a key part of that effort.

4. Defensive Line: A New Force in the Trenches

While the Ravens are known for their strong offensive attack, their defense has often been the heart and soul of the team. In the 2024 NFL Draft, they addressed their defensive front by selecting [Rookie DL Name], a highly touted defensive lineman from [college]. His combination of size, speed, and tenacity made him a top priority for the Ravens.

[Rookie DL Name] immediately contributed as both a pass rusher and a run stopper, showing the ability to disrupt the quarterback and clog running lanes. His relentless motor and ability to shed blockers allowed him to have an immediate impact on the Ravens’ defensive line rotation. In terms of PFF grading, [Rookie DL Name] was consistently one of the top-rated rookie defenders, earning high marks for his pass-rushing prowess and ability to dominate in the trenches.

One of his standout performances came during a critical late-season game, where his pressure on the opposing quarterback helped the Ravens seal a win. His PFF grades for that game were exceptional, as he dominated his matchup and showed the potential to be a long-term anchor for the Ravens’ defensive line.

As the Ravens continue to build their defense, [Rookie DL Name] provides the kind of versatility and explosiveness that could make him one of the premier defensive linemen in the NFL over time. His contributions to the pass rush will be vital in Baltimore’s push for a championship, and his development in his rookie season has solidified his place as a future cornerstone of the defense.

5. Linebacker: A Defensive Playmaker

The Ravens’ defense is known for its physicality and ability to generate turnovers, and the 2024 rookie class added another promising linebacker to the mix. [Rookie LB Name], selected in the [round], immediately became a leader in the middle of the Ravens’ defense. With exceptional instincts and sideline-to-sideline range, he proved to be an asset both in pass coverage and as a run defender.

His PFF grades consistently ranked highly in multiple categories, particularly in his ability to read plays quickly and react accordingly. Whether he was stopping the run or covering tight ends and running backs in passing situations, [Rookie LB Name] demonstrated the versatility the Ravens need at the linebacker position. His playmaking ability has already been on full display, and his overall performance has exceeded expectations for a rookie.

The Ravens’ defense, long regarded as one of the league’s best, now has a new playmaker in [Rookie LB Name] to help keep opposing offenses in check. As the season progresses, the Ravens are confident that he will only continue to improve, becoming a key contributor for years to come.

6. Secondary: Ball-Hawking Talent

The Ravens’ secondary is consistently one of the best in the NFL, and in 2024, they added another dynamic piece to their backfield in [Rookie DB Name]. A cornerback with excellent coverage skills and a nose for the ball, [Rookie DB Name] made an immediate impact as both a cover corner and a ball hawk. Throughout the season, he impressed with his ability to lock down top receivers, while also making key interceptions at pivotal moments.

His PFF grades were among the highest of any rookie in the secondary, particularly in coverage, where he excelled at staying with receivers and not allowing big plays. His ability to read the quarterback’s eyes and break on passes quickly made him a dangerous weapon in the secondary. As the Ravens look to maintain their dominance on defense, [Rookie DB Name] will be a key player in limiting explosive plays and creating turnovers.