The Athletic reports that Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta finds value in the depth of this year’s draft class.

The NFL Draft is an event that dominates the sports landscape each spring, where all 32 teams gather to select the next generation of stars. The draft process can be a game-changer, especially when a team identifies hidden gems or steals in the later rounds. This year, the Baltimore Ravens are once again looking to maximize their draft capital, with General Manager Eric DeCosta emphasizing the value he sees in the depth of the 2025 draft class.

According to The Athletic, DeCosta has a deep appreciation for the strength of this year’s draft class, particularly the talent available in the mid-to-late rounds. This depth presents an opportunity for the Ravens to bolster their roster in areas of need while potentially finding future contributors in a draft class that is packed with prospects who could make an immediate impact.

In this article, we will explore why the 2025 NFL Draft could be a defining moment for the Ravens, how DeCosta is approaching the draft’s depth, and what it means for the team’s long-term future. By understanding the structure and potential of the draft class, we can gain insight into the Ravens’ strategy as they look to reload and remain competitive in a loaded AFC.

DeCosta’s Draft Philosophy: Always Looking for Value

Eric DeCosta, who took over as the Ravens’ general manager in 2019, has built a reputation as one of the most shrewd and thoughtful talent evaluators in the NFL. He’s well-known for his ability to identify value in all areas of the draft, from the first round down to the undrafted free agents. His meticulous approach to scouting players and the draft process has earned the Ravens a reputation for making smart, calculated decisions.

DeCosta’s understanding of the draft’s ebbs and flows is key to his success. He’s often willing to trade down in the first round if it means acquiring more picks, which is an approach that allows the team to build depth and fill multiple positions. DeCosta has stated on multiple occasions that he values the depth of a draft class as much as its star power. The Ravens’ draft philosophy revolves around building a strong, well-rounded team, rather than relying on just one or two elite players.

The 2025 draft class has been characterized by its overall depth, with a significant number of players in nearly every position who could contribute in their rookie seasons or grow into reliable starters. This makes the class appealing to a team like the Ravens, who are looking to improve across the board without overcommitting to one position early in the draft. DeCosta’s keen eye for identifying long-term value in mid-round picks will be crucial in making the most out of the 2025 class.

The Depth of the 2025 Draft Class: Areas of Strength

The 2025 NFL Draft class is one of the most well-balanced in recent years. While there may not be an overwhelming number of blue-chip, franchise-altering players at the top, there is a wealth of talent that should allow teams to find solid contributors throughout the process. For the Ravens, this presents an opportunity to fortify their roster at multiple positions.

1. Wide Receiver: A Position of Need

The Ravens have been on the hunt for a reliable wide receiver for several years. While the team has added notable names such as Odell Beckham Jr. and Zay Flowers, they still need a well-rounded group of pass catchers who can complement quarterback Lamar Jackson’s playing style. The 2025 class is loaded with receivers who have the ability to make an impact immediately.

Players like Marvin Harrison Jr. from Ohio State and Malik Nabers from LSU are expected to be highly sought after in the early rounds. However, the class also features plenty of talent beyond the first round, with several receivers expected to come off the board in the second and third rounds. The Ravens have had success finding value at wide receiver in the middle rounds before—such as with Marquise Brown and later, Rashod Bateman—and they may look to continue that trend in this draft.

DeCosta has shown a preference for high-character, high-motor players who can contribute both as receivers and blockers. The 2025 class has numerous wideouts with solid blocking abilities, which could make them a perfect fit for Baltimore’s run-heavy offense. Adding depth at this position could help the Ravens establish a more balanced offense that can exploit mismatches and keep opposing defenses on their toes.

2. Defensive Line: Strengthening the Front Seven

The Ravens’ defense has been known for its physicality, but there is always room for improvement in the trenches. With the departure of some key defensive line players over the past few years, DeCosta may look to bolster the front seven, especially with the defensive line being one of the strongest positions in the 2025 draft class.

There are numerous defensive linemen who are expected to go in the first three rounds, with players like Jalen Carter (Georgia) and Bryan Bresee (Clemson) leading the charge. However, beyond the top tier, the depth of the class is remarkable. Players like Tuli Tuipulotu (USC), KJ Henry (Clemson), and Colby Wooden (Auburn) are potential middle-round steals who could develop into strong rotational players or even future starters.

DeCosta’s focus on drafting high-energy, technically sound players could help the Ravens reinforce their defensive line with the right blend of experience and youth. With a deep pool of defensive linemen, the Ravens could find a player who fits their defensive scheme and adds depth to a unit that is already known for its strong pass rush and run defense.

3. Cornerback: A Potential Upgrade

While the Ravens have one of the NFL’s best cornerbacks in Marlon Humphrey, the team could use more depth and talent at the cornerback position. The 2025 draft class is rich in cornerback talent, which could provide the Ravens with an opportunity to address the position in the mid-to-late rounds.

Players like Joey Porter Jr. (Penn State) and Kelee Ringo (Georgia) will likely be off the board early in the draft. Still, the class features several intriguing prospects who could make an immediate impact, such as Cam Smith (South Carolina) and Eli Ricks (Alabama). The Ravens could potentially use a second- or third-round pick to secure a talented cornerback who could develop behind Humphrey and become a starting-caliber player down the line.

Adding a cornerback in the draft also gives the Ravens an opportunity to improve their secondary depth, especially in light of the long-term future of the position. Humphrey is one of the league’s best, but injuries and age eventually catch up with even the most durable players. A new cornerback could provide valuable experience to a defensive backfield that already includes young stars like Kyle Hamilton.

4. Offensive Line: Protecting Lamar Jackson

The Ravens’ offensive line has been a focal point of attention in recent years, with the team making several moves to shore up this area. With Lamar Jackson’s extended contract and the team’s continued focus on building an offense around his dynamic skill set, improving the protection upfront is crucial.

The 2025 draft class boasts an impressive array of offensive linemen who could help the Ravens address both their short- and long-term needs. Players like Peter Skoronski (Northwestern) and Broderick Jones (Georgia) are top-tier talents who could go early in the draft. However, the strength of the class lies in its depth, with several players expected to be selected in the second and third rounds who can step in and make an immediate impact.

DeCosta has always placed a premium on building a strong offensive line, and this draft class offers several versatile linemen who could fit into the Ravens’ offensive scheme. Adding depth along the offensive line will be crucial as the Ravens continue to build a team that can protect Jackson while also opening up running lanes for their backs.

DeCosta’s Approach to Drafting for Depth

One of the key reasons DeCosta sees value in this year’s draft class is the sheer depth it offers. The Ravens have always been a team that emphasizes building from the ground up, focusing on depth to ensure they have strong backups and rotational players across all positions. While many teams overemphasize the need for immediate, headline-making picks, the Ravens prefer to have solid contributors at every level.

In past drafts, DeCosta has shown a keen eye for selecting players who may not be the most hyped prospects but who have the skills and mentality to thrive in Baltimore’s culture. Players like linebacker Patrick Queen and wide receiver Devin Duvernay were drafted with the idea that they could grow into important roles, and they’ve made significant contributions to the team’s success.

By focusing on the depth of the 2025 class, DeCosta can help ensure that the Ravens’ roster remains balanced, competitive, and well-equipped to handle the challenges of a tough AFC. Whether it’s improving their defense, adding playmakers to the offense, or strengthening the trenches, the Ravens are poised to take full advantage of the talent available in this draft class.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, it’s clear that the Baltimore Ravens are in a prime position to make a significant impact. With a deep draft class that offers talent across all positions, Eric DeCosta’s emphasis on finding value throughout the process is a sound strategy that will allow the team to build for the future while also addressing immediate needs.

Whether it’s strengthening the secondary, adding to the defensive line, upgrading the offensive line, or improving the wide receiver room, the Ravens are well-positioned to continue their tradition of drafting well and building a balanced, competitive roster. With a general manager who understands the importance of depth and value, the Ravens are set to make the most of the 2025 draft and continue their ascent in the AFC.