The Baltimore Ravens were able to select eight players in the 2021 NFL draft. Some of their draft selections worked out in a big way, while others didn’t stick with the team out of training camp.
When grading the draft class of each AFC North team, Nick Shook of NFL.com gave a solid grade to Baltimore’s rookie group with a B. Shook went into detail of each rookie and their contributions to the organization in 2021.
“After a hype-filled preseason, Bateman’s debut was delayed by injury. While he finished with a decent rookie campaign, he also averaged less than 50 yards per game, leaving Ravens fans still hungry for a game-changing receiver. Oweh stormed out of the gate with three sacks and two forced fumbles in his first five games, and though he cooled off down the stretch, he scored a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team. Cleveland worked his way into the lineup late in the season, largely performing at an average level before finishing with a solid game in Week 18. A former college running back and cornerback, Stephens switched to safety in the pros, then stepped into a starting role following multiple significant injuries in Baltimore’s secondary. He played solid football and has room to grow. Wallace failed to crack Baltimore’s receiving corps, spending most of the season on special teams. Wade was traded to New England before the start of the season. Two stints on injured reserve ate up the bulk of Hayes’ season. Mason was waived at the end of training camp, then bounced between New England’s and Chicago’s practice squads before signing a reserve/future contract with the Ravens in January.”
Bateman, Oweh, Cleveland, Stephens and Wallace each showed plenty of potential in their time on the field, showing that they could each have bright futures at the NFL level if they’re able to hone in on their skills and improve over the next few years. Hayes had bad injury luck, while Wade and Mason were let go. It was a solid haul for the Ravens, but the top half of the class will ultimately prove how good the class will be.