Using a combination of need and best-player-available attitude, the Baltimore Ravens are targeting dynamic edge rushers in the NFL Draft.

As the NFL draft approaches, the Baltimore Ravens are once again looking to build on their legacy of strong defensive football. Known for their elite defenses over the years, the Ravens have established themselves as one of the league’s top teams with a philosophy rooted in toughness, physicality, and a relentless pass rush. In recent seasons, however, despite a defensive unit that remains formidable, the Ravens have faced increasing pressure to bolster certain areas of their roster, particularly along the defensive line and edge rusher position.

Historically, the Ravens have built some of the NFL’s most dominant defensive lines, featuring household names like Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, and Ed Reed. But in recent years, the team has seen a decline in their ability to consistently generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. This is why heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, the team is placing a high priority on selecting a dynamic edge rusher — someone who can make an immediate impact and provide the kind of pass-rush presence the Ravens have been missing.

With a combination of need and a best-player-available mindset, the Ravens are targeting edge rushers who possess the explosiveness, athleticism, and high motor necessary to thrive in Baltimore’s aggressive defense. In this article, we will explore the need for an elite edge rusher, the team’s drafting philosophy, and some of the top prospects who could help the Ravens build on their storied defensive tradition.

The Importance of the Edge Rusher in Baltimore’s Defense

The Ravens’ defense has always been built around creating chaos for opposing offenses, with an emphasis on generating pressure up front. Historically, the team’s defensive identity has been defined by its linebacker corps and front seven, with edge rushers playing a key role in disrupting the pocket, sacking quarterbacks, and stopping the run. The Ravens have long had standout players at the edge rusher position, but in recent years, the pass rush has been inconsistent, and this is a problem the team is determined to solve.

The importance of an elite edge rusher cannot be overstated in the modern NFL. With more and more teams building high-powered, pass-heavy offenses, the ability to put pressure on the quarterback is paramount. A top-tier edge rusher not only disrupts passing lanes and forces quarterbacks into uncomfortable situations, but also alters the entire flow of an offense. When the quarterback feels constant pressure from the edge, it impacts their timing, accuracy, and decision-making, which leads to mistakes, turnovers, and sacks.

The Ravens are well aware of the importance of maintaining a strong pass rush. While they have a solid defensive front, including promising players like Justin Madubuike and Calais Campbell, the edge rusher position remains a question mark. Odafe Oweh, who showed flashes of brilliance as a rookie, has yet to fully realize his potential. Additionally, players like Vince Biegel and Tyus Bowser have been solid contributors but have not been able to generate consistent pressure week in and week out.

The lack of a truly dominant pass rusher off the edge has been a key issue for the Ravens, especially in critical moments of high-stakes games. The inability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks, especially in the postseason, has often been a reason for the team’s early exits from the playoffs. Thus, heading into the 2025 draft, finding a dynamic edge rusher is at the top of the Ravens’ to-do list.

The Ravens’ Drafting Philosophy: Need and Best Player Available

The Ravens’ front office is known for its meticulous approach to the NFL Draft, often balancing team needs with the best-player-available strategy. This hybrid approach has allowed the team to consistently add high-level talent across the roster while also addressing areas of concern. When it comes to the edge rusher position, the Ravens are likely to target the best player available who fits their system, but they also recognize the urgency of improving their pass rush.

In previous drafts, the Ravens have been successful in identifying value picks and developing players in their system. General manager Eric DeCosta, who has taken over from Ozzie Newsome, has continued the team’s tradition of making smart, calculated selections. The Ravens are known for drafting players who fit their team culture and style of play, and this year is no different. Given the importance of the edge rusher position, the team is likely to target a player who can come in and make an immediate impact, but they will also be willing to take the best available talent — even if they have to wait for that player to develop.

This approach gives the Ravens flexibility and allows them to fill needs while still improving their overall talent pool. While the edge rusher position is a glaring need, the team may not hesitate to select the best player available on their draft board if an elite prospect falls to them.

Top Edge Rusher Prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft

With the Ravens poised to select an edge rusher in the 2025 NFL Draft, it is important to take a look at some of the top prospects who could be available when the Ravens are on the clock. These prospects are expected to bring a combination of athleticism, power, and technique that can elevate Baltimore’s pass rush to the next level.

1. James Pearce Jr. (Tennessee)

One of the top edge rusher prospects in the 2025 draft is James Pearce Jr. out of the University of Tennessee. Pearce has been a standout player for the Volunteers, consistently disrupting opposing offenses with his speed, strength, and ability to bend around the edge. He finished the 2024 season with double-digit sacks and is known for his relentless motor and explosive first step off the line of scrimmage.

At 6’5″ and 270 pounds, Pearce has the size and athleticism to excel in the NFL. His ability to rush the passer and defend against the run makes him a versatile option for the Ravens. Pearce’s ability to line up at both defensive end and outside linebacker would allow the Ravens to use him in a variety of schemes and defensive packages, making him a perfect fit for Baltimore’s defense.

2. Jared Verse (Florida State)

Jared Verse from Florida State is another player who could immediately improve the Ravens’ pass rush. Verse is known for his ability to get after the quarterback, with a combination of power and finesse that allows him to defeat blockers and close in on quarterbacks quickly. He has shown impressive improvements each season at Florida State, racking up impressive sack totals and earning All-ACC honors in 2024.

Verse’s high motor, strength, and ability to convert speed to power make him a dangerous edge rusher. He is versatile enough to play in a 4-3 or 3-4 defense, which aligns with the Ravens’ varied defensive schemes. Adding Verse to the mix could immediately improve the Ravens’ ability to generate pressure on the quarterback and help them maintain their aggressive defensive identity.

3. Will Anderson Jr. (Alabama)

Will Anderson Jr., though widely regarded as one of the top overall prospects in the 2025 draft, could also be an ideal selection for the Ravens if he falls into their range. Anderson, who played for Alabama, is a dominant pass rusher with a refined skill set. His combination of size, explosiveness, and technique allows him to take over games from the edge. Anderson has consistently been a force for Alabama, racking up impressive sack totals throughout his career.

His pass-rushing ability and high football IQ make him one of the most complete edge rushers in this draft class. While Anderson is expected to be selected earlier in the first round, should he fall to the Ravens at their draft spot, the team would be wise to take him. His elite ability to rush the passer and disrupt offenses would make an immediate and lasting impact on Baltimore’s defense.

4. Lukas Van Ness (Iowa)

Lukas Van Ness is another intriguing prospect who could appeal to the Ravens. Van Ness is known for his versatility and ability to line up at multiple positions along the defensive line. He has the size and strength to hold up against the run but also possesses the athleticism and burst off the line to be an effective pass rusher. Van Ness finished his 2024 season with 10 sacks and consistently caused chaos in the backfield for Iowa.

The Ravens value players who can fit into multiple roles, and Van Ness offers them that flexibility. His ability to play both inside and outside would allow the Ravens to create various defensive schemes and keep opposing offenses guessing. Additionally, Van Ness’ motor and work ethic make him a fit for Baltimore’s high-energy defensive unit.

The Impact of an Edge Rusher on the Ravens’ Defense

Selecting a dynamic edge rusher in the 2025 draft would have an immediate impact on the Ravens’ defense. The team’s ability to generate consistent pressure on the quarterback has been a key issue in recent years, especially in big games. With the addition of a talented edge rusher, the Ravens could quickly improve in this area, making their defense even more dangerous.

A strong pass rush will not only help the Ravens disrupt opposing quarterbacks, but it will also make life easier for their secondary. With cornerbacks like Marlon Humphrey and safeties like Kyle Hamilton, the Ravens already have a strong defensive backfield. However, without the ability to pressure the quarterback consistently, even the best secondary can struggle. Adding an edge rusher who can consistently collapse the pocket will allow the Ravens’ defensive backs to cover for shorter periods, increasing their chances of forcing turnovers and limiting big plays.