drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds could provide the Ravens with a developmental backup, offering future depth.
As the Baltimore Ravens continue to build around their star quarterback Lamar Jackson, the idea of adding a quarterback in the middle rounds of the NFL draft has sparked some debate. While Jackson is firmly entrenched as the team’s starter and has proven to be one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the NFL, the Ravens’ depth behind him has been a question mark in recent years. Could a developmental quarterback provide the team with some added security and potentially set the stage for future success? The idea of drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds may seem counterintuitive to some, but there are several reasons why it could be a prudent move for the Ravens as they look to build long-term stability at the position.
1. The Importance of Quarterback Depth in the NFL
In today’s NFL, having solid depth at the quarterback position is critical. Injuries are an inevitable part of the game, and having a reliable backup can be the difference between a successful season and a missed playoff berth. Even the best quarterbacks, like Lamar Jackson, are not immune to injury. Jackson’s unique style of play, which often involves running the football and extending plays with his legs, makes him more susceptible to taking hits and sustaining injuries. While Jackson has been remarkably durable for most of his career, the possibility of an injury always exists, especially given the physical demands placed on a mobile quarterback.
In 2024, the Ravens had an experienced backup in Tyler Huntley, but the team would likely prefer a more secure long-term option if anything were to happen to Jackson. Huntley, while serviceable in spurts, has not shown the ability to consistently lead the team to success if Jackson were to miss significant time. As a result, drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds could provide the team with a developmental project, someone who could step in if needed while also offering long-term upside.
The middle rounds of the draft are often where teams find quality quarterbacks who can develop into future starters or reliable backups. While there are no guarantees, some of the league’s top quarterbacks were drafted in the middle rounds, including Tom Brady (sixth round) and Russell Wilson (third round). While the Ravens are not looking for a quarterback to start immediately, adding a developmental talent at the position could prove to be a wise investment in the future.
2. The Future of Lamar Jackson and Contract Uncertainty
Lamar Jackson’s future with the Ravens has been the subject of speculation since the team and Jackson struggled to reach a long-term contract extension agreement in 2024. Although Jackson is signed through 2025, the uncertainty surrounding his future with the team has led to questions about the Ravens’ long-term plan at the quarterback position.
As of now, Jackson is the clear franchise quarterback, and there’s no doubt that the Ravens would like to build around him for years to come. However, given the nature of NFL contracts and the complex negotiation dynamics with star players, the Ravens have to be prepared for the possibility that Jackson could eventually depart or that they may need to transition to a new quarterback at some point down the road. The NFL landscape is full of unpredictable circumstances, and the Ravens need to account for the reality that Jackson could either move on or deal with unforeseen circumstances that affect his career.
By drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds, the Ravens would be hedging their bets against the future. While it may not be an immediate need, having a developmental quarterback on the roster could provide the team with a fallback option in the event that the Jackson situation reaches a point where the team needs to make a change. It would also give the Ravens a chance to cultivate a potential successor without the pressure of having to rely on an immediate impact player.
Additionally, the Ravens could look to trade the developmental quarterback later if Jackson stays healthy and signed long-term, allowing them to recoup value from the draft investment. The quarterback position is the most important on the field, and finding a quality backup or future starter without having to invest a first-round pick could allow the Ravens to allocate resources to other critical areas.
3. The Value of Middle-Round Quarterbacks
Middle-round quarterbacks are often seen as projects, but they can be valuable assets for NFL teams. In recent years, several quarterbacks drafted in the middle rounds have gone on to have successful careers, and many of them have been able to step into starting roles when called upon. These quarterbacks may not have the immediate star potential of first-round picks, but they offer plenty of upside and can develop into solid, reliable starters or valuable trade pieces.
Some recent middle-round quarterbacks who have had success include Russell Wilson, Dak Prescott, and Derek Carr. These players were selected in the third and fourth rounds but went on to have solid careers as starters. Drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds would give the Ravens an opportunity to find a player with upside who could step in and perform well if needed, while also providing them with long-term value as a potential trade asset or backup.
In the case of the Ravens, drafting a quarterback who can learn behind Lamar Jackson and offensive coordinator Todd Monken for a few seasons would be beneficial. The team could offer the rookie a stable environment to grow without the pressure of starting immediately. With Jackson as the clear starter, a middle-round pick could focus on developing the mental aspects of the game, working on mechanics, and preparing for the future. This type of growth is often what allows middle-round quarterbacks to eventually succeed in the NFL.
4. Current Ravens Backup Situation and Depth Chart
The Ravens’ backup quarterback situation has been a point of concern in recent seasons. Tyler Huntley has had some decent moments, but there are clear limitations to his game. While Huntley has shown flashes of promise, particularly in his relief appearances for Jackson, he has not been able to lead the Ravens to consistent success over an extended period. In 2024, when Jackson missed some time with injury, Huntley struggled to keep the team’s offensive rhythm intact, which ultimately hindered the Ravens’ ability to make a deep playoff run.
While Huntley is a reliable backup for the time being, the Ravens’ coaching staff may prefer to have someone with more potential for growth, rather than relying on a player who has not yet shown the ability to develop into a full-time starter. Drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds would offer the Ravens a chance to improve the depth chart at the position and invest in someone who could become a more reliable option down the line.
By adding a developmental quarterback, the Ravens would not only have more security in case of injury but also provide themselves with a more compelling backup option who could eventually become a valuable trade asset or even push for the starting role if Jackson were to depart in the future.
5. Drafting for Long-Term Success, Not Immediate Needs
The Ravens are a team with playoff aspirations and should focus on building for the future, not just for immediate needs. While the team’s priority may be bolstering its roster in other areas, such as the wide receiver group, offensive line, and defensive backfield, the quarterback position is the one area where the team cannot afford to cut corners.
Drafting a quarterback in the middle rounds is a long-term play, and it would help the Ravens prepare for the future without taking significant risks. The Ravens don’t need a quarterback to start right away, but they could benefit from adding someone who can step into a larger role down the line. As the NFL continues to evolve, having a young, talented quarterback on the roster could be a critical asset in the future.
If Lamar Jackson remains healthy and under contract with the Ravens for years to come, the team will still need to ensure it has a reliable backup and someone who can step in if needed. With the current uncertainty surrounding quarterbacks in the NFL, having depth at the position should never be underestimated. With the right selection in the middle rounds, the Ravens could find a player who can make a meaningful impact on their roster.
