Five Ravens first-round picks named best of the decade at their draft location | Late for work

The Baltimore Ravens are no strangers to making high-impact selections in the NFL Draft. Over the years, they have consistently built a roster of talented players who not only excel on the field but often exceed expectations once they arrive in Baltimore. In fact, when looking at their first-round picks over the past decade, five players stand out not just as key contributors but as some of the best selections at their respective draft positions.

The NFL Draft is an event where teams hope to find players who can make an immediate difference. For the Ravens, the last decade has been an impressive showcase of their ability to scout and select elite talent. From game-changing defenders to dynamic offensive players, Baltimore’s draft strategy has put them in an excellent position to remain competitive year in and year out. Now, five of their first-round picks from the past decade have been named the best of the decade at their respective draft locations. These players have not only performed at an incredibly high level but have also helped define what the Ravens are as an organization today.

Let’s take a closer look at these standout first-round picks and examine how they have earned the distinction of being the best of the decade at their draft spots.

1. Lamar Jackson – Quarterback, 32nd Overall (2018)

When Lamar Jackson was selected at the 32nd overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, many questioned the Ravens’ decision to trade up for him. At the time, there were concerns about his unorthodox playing style and whether he could succeed as a traditional quarterback in the NFL. But in hindsight, it’s clear that the Ravens hit a home run with the selection of Jackson.

Jackson’s impact on the field has been nothing short of extraordinary. He won the NFL MVP award in 2019 after setting numerous records, including becoming the youngest quarterback to win the award. His dual-threat ability has reshaped the way modern offenses operate, combining elite speed and athleticism with a growing mastery of the passing game. Jackson’s ability to make plays both with his arm and his legs has given the Ravens one of the most dynamic offenses in the league.

In addition to his individual accolades, Jackson has brought success to the team, leading them to multiple playoff appearances and helping them earn a place among the NFL’s elite teams. His impact at the quarterback position is irreplaceable, and in many ways, he has redefined the expectations for what a franchise quarterback can be. Despite being drafted at the tail end of the first round, Jackson has proven to be one of the top players from the 2018 class, making him one of the best first-round picks of the decade at his draft location.

2. Marlon Humphrey – Cornerback, 16th Overall (2017)

Marlon Humphrey’s selection at 16th overall in the 2017 draft is one that has quickly paid dividends for the Ravens. While cornerbacks often take some time to develop, Humphrey made an immediate impact on the Ravens’ defense. Known for his physicality, strong coverage skills, and ability to force turnovers, Humphrey has quickly become one of the top cornerbacks in the NFL.

In just a few seasons, Humphrey has emerged as the leader of a defense that has ranked among the league’s best. His ability to shut down top receivers has been crucial in helping the Ravens’ defense maintain a consistently high level of play. He earned Pro Bowl honors in 2019 and 2021 and has established himself as one of the most dominant cornerbacks in the league.

Humphrey’s combination of size, speed, and intelligence makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing offenses. He’s also been a standout in clutch situations, showing the ability to make game-changing plays when his team needs it most. He’s also proven to be an excellent tackler in both run defense and pass coverage, an attribute that elevates him as one of the most complete cornerbacks in the NFL.

Given the Ravens’ history of selecting top-tier defensive players in the draft, Humphrey stands out as one of the best cornerbacks to be taken at No. 16 in recent memory. His development into an elite defensive back and his continued consistency year after year make him a cornerstone piece of the Ravens’ defense and a prime example of why Baltimore’s scouting department continues to succeed.

3. C.J. Mosley – Linebacker, 17th Overall (2014)

C.J. Mosley was selected 17th overall by the Ravens in 2014, and from the very beginning of his career, he proved to be a cornerstone player for their defense. A consensus All-American in college at Alabama, Mosley was known for his leadership on the field, football IQ, and ability to read offenses, which translated seamlessly to the NFL.

During his time with the Ravens, Mosley became one of the top inside linebackers in the league. His ability to play both in coverage and against the run made him a valuable asset to the defense. He was named to four Pro Bowls and was an All-Pro in 2016. His sideline-to-sideline range, ability to rush the passer, and knack for finding the football helped solidify the Ravens’ defense during his time in Baltimore.

While Mosley eventually moved on to the New York Jets in free agency, his time with the Ravens solidified his legacy as one of the best linebackers in the NFL during his tenure. He made a massive impact on Baltimore’s defense during the years he was in purple and black and remains one of the franchise’s most impactful first-round selections.

4. Ronnie Stanley – Offensive Tackle, 6th Overall (2016)

When the Ravens selected Ronnie Stanley at No. 6 overall in the 2016 draft, they were making a statement about the importance of building a strong offensive line. Stanley, who played at Notre Dame, was regarded as one of the top offensive line prospects in recent memory, and he has lived up to the hype. Since entering the NFL, Stanley has been a dominant force in the trenches, protecting his quarterbacks and clearing the way for the running game.

Stanley’s combination of size, athleticism, and technique has made him one of the top offensive tackles in the league. He was named a Pro Bowl alternate in 2018 and earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2019, a year in which he helped solidify an offensive line that was critical to Lamar Jackson’s MVP season.

Stanley’s presence on the offensive line has been a key factor in the Ravens’ offensive success. His ability to shut down opposing pass rushers has allowed Jackson and other quarterbacks to operate with confidence in the pocket. In the running game, Stanley’s ability to move defenders and create running lanes has been essential for a Ravens’ offense that thrives on the ground.

As one of the top offensive linemen in the NFL, Stanley has more than lived up to his selection as the sixth overall pick in the 2016 draft. His consistency, leadership, and performance have been key in maintaining the Ravens’ success, and he is considered one of the top tackles of his generation.

5. Justin Tucker – Kicker, Undrafted (2012)

While not technically a first-round pick, Justin Tucker is undoubtedly one of the most impactful players the Ravens have ever selected. As an undrafted free agent in 2012, Tucker has redefined what it means to be a reliable kicker in the NFL. His accuracy and range are unparalleled, and he has consistently been one of the most clutch performers in the game.

Tucker is the Ravens’ all-time leader in points scored, and his ability to connect on long field goals in high-pressure situations has earned him a place among the greatest kickers in NFL history. He has made multiple game-winning kicks and has the highest career field goal percentage in NFL history.

His consistency, mental toughness, and ability to perform under pressure have made him an invaluable asset to the Ravens for over a decade. Tucker’s legacy in Baltimore, though not as a first-round pick, is a testament to the Ravens’ ability to find talent in unconventional places and their success in developing elite special teams players.