Ten Ravens Who Might Be Most Affected by the NFL Draft in 2025

As the Baltimore Ravens continue to build their team for the future, the NFL Draft is a crucial component of their roster strategy. Each year, the team aims to strengthen key positions and improve the overall talent on the roster. With the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner, the Ravens will look to make strategic picks to bolster their chances for future success, especially with some veterans and key players entering the latter stages of their careers. The Ravens’ front office, led by General Manager Eric DeCosta and Head Coach John Harbaugh, has always been adept at making the most out of their draft selections, and the 2025 draft is no exception.

The draft is not just about adding new players but also about understanding how incoming rookies will affect the existing roster. For several Ravens players, the draft could significantly impact their roles, playing time, and even their future with the team. Below are ten players who might be most affected by the 2025 NFL Draft, depending on the Ravens’ choices in the upcoming draft.

1. Lamar Jackson (Quarterback)

Lamar Jackson’s role with the Ravens has been solidified as the franchise quarterback for the foreseeable future. However, with the team constantly looking to improve and build around him, the 2025 NFL Draft could still have an impact on his situation. While unlikely to be replaced, the Ravens may select a backup quarterback or someone who could serve as a future developmental prospect.

Jackson’s performance and injury history will also influence the Ravens’ approach. If the Ravens pick a quarterback in the later rounds as an insurance policy or to develop behind Jackson, it could signal a shift in the long-term strategy. While Lamar Jackson is undoubtedly the face of the franchise, the team will want to ensure that they have a solid backup in place, especially considering Jackson’s play style that can leave him more vulnerable to injuries.

2. Odafe Oweh (Edge Rusher)

Odafe Oweh has shown flashes of brilliance since being drafted in 2021, but his development as a pass-rusher has been somewhat inconsistent. The Ravens have been looking for a true edge rusher to complement their defense, and the 2025 draft could be pivotal in this regard. If the Ravens select a standout edge rusher or a high-potential defensive lineman in the early rounds, Oweh’s role could be challenged.

While Oweh’s raw athleticism and potential are undeniable, the Ravens have always been focused on improving their pass rush, and they might select a more polished player in the draft to push Oweh to reach his full potential. A new player added to the defensive line might mean fewer snaps for Oweh, or it could push him to become more productive in his role.

3. Rashod Bateman (Wide Receiver)

Rashod Bateman was drafted with high expectations, and while he’s shown promise, injuries and inconsistency have limited his impact. The Ravens have historically struggled to build a dominant passing game, and with Lamar Jackson’s contract situation settled, the Ravens will likely prioritize adding more weapons to the offense, especially at wide receiver.

If the Ravens use an early draft pick to select a wide receiver in the 2025 draft, it could put Bateman’s future with the team in jeopardy. A more reliable, explosive wide receiver could potentially diminish Bateman’s role, or he could find himself in competition for snaps with a new rookie addition. This year’s draft could be make-or-break for Bateman’s future in Baltimore.

4. Patrick Queen (Linebacker)

Patrick Queen has been an important part of the Ravens’ linebacker corps since being drafted in 2020, but his inconsistencies have led to questions about his long-term viability as a starting inside linebacker. With the Ravens’ defensive scheme continuing to evolve under coordinator Mike Macdonald, they might look to add a new linebacker who could challenge Queen for snaps.

The 2025 draft could see the Ravens invest in a more complete linebacker who could excel in pass coverage and sideline-to-sideline range—two areas where Queen has occasionally struggled. Queen’s future could be dependent on his ability to adapt to the new competition, as a rookie linebacker could push him out of his starting role or reduce his playing time significantly.

5. J.K. Dobbins (Running Back)

J.K. Dobbins has shown great promise as the Ravens’ lead running back, but he has battled injuries throughout his career. The 2025 NFL Draft could bring in a complementary back or potentially a future lead back, especially if Dobbins’ injury history continues to be a concern. The Ravens may want to add depth to their backfield, particularly if they view Dobbins as an injury-prone player.

Depending on who the Ravens select in the draft, Dobbins could find his role reduced if the team brings in a dynamic running back with different skill sets, such as a change-of-pace or receiving back. If the rookie proves capable of filling a larger role, Dobbins’ future as the featured back in Baltimore might be in question.

6. Marlon Humphrey (Cornerback)

Marlon Humphrey has been the cornerstone of the Ravens’ secondary for several years, and he remains one of the top cornerbacks in the league. However, with the Ravens’ defense continuing to evolve, they could look to add a young cornerback who could take over a starting role or compete for a prominent position.

As the NFL becomes more pass-heavy, the demand for top-tier cornerbacks is only increasing. If the Ravens draft a high-profile cornerback, it could challenge Humphrey’s position, particularly if the rookie shows elite talent. Additionally, a draft selection in the secondary might mean that the Ravens are looking to shift to a more versatile defensive backfield, with Humphrey needing to adjust his role or compete for snaps.

7. Tyus Bowser (Edge Rusher/Outside Linebacker)

Tyus Bowser has been a key player for the Ravens, providing depth at outside linebacker and occasional pass-rushing duties. However, like Odafe Oweh, Bowser’s role could be significantly affected by the Ravens’ selection in the 2025 draft. If the team selects a high-profile pass-rusher, Bowser’s role might become more of a rotational player, particularly if the rookie has the ability to start right away.

While Bowser has been a reliable contributor, he’s not the dominant pass rusher the Ravens might be searching for. If the team drafts an edge rusher with a high ceiling, it could be a sign that Bowser’s days as a primary contributor are numbered, and his role might become more limited as the new draft pick takes on a bigger role in the defense.

8. Mark Andrews (Tight End)

Mark Andrews is undoubtedly one of the Ravens’ most reliable and productive players. However, with the team increasingly relying on a passing game that utilizes multiple weapons, it’s possible that the 2025 draft could introduce another dynamic tight end into the fold. If the Ravens use a high pick to add a more athletic or versatile tight end, it could affect Andrews’ target share and snaps.

Andrews is a premier weapon in the Ravens’ offense, but adding more talent at tight end could push him into a more traditional role or reduce his opportunities. While the Ravens wouldn’t be looking to replace Andrews, they might want to develop another pass-catching tight end who could complement his skill set, especially in a two-tight-end set, and ensure that the offense has multiple threats in the middle of the field.

9. Kevin Zeitler (Offensive Guard)

Kevin Zeitler is one of the more seasoned veterans on the Ravens’ offensive line, and while he remains a highly effective guard, his age and contract status may make him a candidate for replacement in the near future. If the Ravens use an early-round pick in the 2025 draft to select an interior offensive lineman, Zeitler could find himself being phased out of the starting lineup, especially if the rookie shows promise during training camp.

Zeitler’s future could depend on the development of the drafted offensive lineman and how the team views his value moving forward. If the rookie proves ready to take over Zeitler’s role, the veteran guard might find himself transitioning to a backup or rotational role, or possibly even being let go if the team sees a need for further investment in younger players.

10. Justin Tucker (Kicker)

While Justin Tucker is one of the best, if not the best, kickers in NFL history, the 2025 NFL Draft could have a small impact on his role, particularly if the Ravens look to add a kicker for developmental purposes. Tucker, who is in the twilight years of his career, might not face immediate competition, but the team could draft a kicker to ensure long-term stability at the position.

While Tucker has maintained his elite status for many years, it would not be surprising for the Ravens to start planning for his eventual replacement, and a late-round kicker selection could serve as insurance for the future. Tucker’s legacy with the Ravens is secure, but the draft could lead to a gradual shift as the team begins to look ahead.

Drafting for the Future

The 2025 NFL Draft is a pivotal moment for the Baltimore Ravens as they look to build upon their roster and address areas of need. For several players on the current roster, the draft will serve as a significant turning point in their careers. Whether it’s an influx of competition in key positions like quarterback, edge rusher, or wide receiver, the draft will determine which players are pushed to elevate their games and which may find their roles in jeopardy.

As the Ravens continue to strive for a Super Bowl championship, they will make strategic picks that not only strengthen their current roster but also position the team for success in the years to come. For the players mentioned above, the 2025 draft could define their future with the team and potentially alter their careers in ways that will shape the Ravens’ next championship-contending team.