Bilhal Kone Contract: How Much Money Will The Baltimore Ravens’ 6th-Round Pick Make?
Bilhal Kone, a standout cornerback from Western Michigan University, was selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the 178th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This selection marks a significant milestone in Kone’s football journey, transitioning from a JUCO athlete to a Division I prospect and now an NFL player. As a sixth-round pick, Kone’s contract details are of particular interest, especially considering the Ravens’ current salary cap situation.
NFL rookie contracts are standardized based on draft position, with specific salary structures for each round. For sixth-round picks in 2025, the projected contract details are as follows:
- Contract Length: 4 years
- Total Value: Approximately $3.5 million
- Signing Bonus: Around $300,000
- Cap Hit: Varies annually, with the first-year cap hit typically being the lowest
These figures are based on the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement and are subject to minor adjustments based on the team’s salary cap and other factors.
Given the standardized nature of rookie contracts, Kone’s earnings over the four-year period are expected to align closely with the figures mentioned above. The exact distribution of his salary and signing bonus will be determined upon finalizing the contract. It’s important to note that while the total value is approximately $3.5 million, the actual amount Kone will receive may vary slightly based on contract negotiations and other considerations.
As of May 2025, the Baltimore Ravens have a salary cap space of approximately $13.9 million, ranking them 26th in the NFL in terms of available cap space. This relatively modest cap space may influence the structuring of Kone’s contract, potentially leading to a larger signing bonus to provide immediate financial flexibility for the team.(Spotrac)
Kone’s path to the NFL has been unconventional yet impressive. After attending Apple Valley High School in Minnesota, he began his collegiate career at Iowa Central Community College, where he recorded 47 tackles and three interceptions over two seasons. He then transferred to Indiana State for a season before moving to Western Michigan, where he had his most productive season, recording 70 tackles, 10 passes defended, and one interception. His performance at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine further solidified his draft prospects.(Windy City Gridiron, Wikipedia)
As a sixth-round pick, Kone faces the challenge of earning a spot on the Ravens’ 53-man roster. Given the team’s depth in the secondary, including the presence of established players, Kone’s immediate impact may be on special teams. However, his size, athleticism, and versatility could make him a valuable asset in defensive packages, especially in nickel and dime situations.
Bilhal Kone’s selection by the Baltimore Ravens represents a significant achievement in his football career. While his contract details are standardized for a sixth-round pick, the impact he will have on the field will depend on his performance during training camp and the regular season. With determination and continued development, Kone has the potential to contribute to the Ravens’ defensive efforts and carve out a successful NFL career.
