Travis Thomas: Top 5 Ravens Early Draft Options
There are a few no-brainers out there that will be available during the first few rounds of the NFL Draft. I believe this draft will absolutely make or break the Ravens now. Most teams draft with the future in mind, as they should. But certain years call for teams to hit the lottery in terms of impact picks, and I believe that is the case for this team. There aren't many super stars in this draft in my opinion, however this draft class is rich with players who can contribute right away and make reasonable impacts.
Devin Funchess, Wide Receiver, Michigan 6'4 232 LBS -- Devin Funchess is a hybrid tight end – wide receiver from the Michigan who started his career at Michigan as a tight end before converting full-time to wide receiver this past season. Funchess has the ability to be a good NFL receiver with a valuable red zone-type role or he could be a potentially elite tight end along the lines of Julius Thomas. He's a can't miss pick because of his experience and success at both tight end and receiver.
Landon Collins, Safety, Alabama 6'0 222 LBS -- Alabama Safety Landon Collins would bring that patented physicality back to the Ravens secondary. Any receiver who comes across the middle of the field will get to know Collins quickly and he will make them regret catching that football. Collins is at his best when he makes plays against the run and shutting down intermediate route-runners.
Maxx Williams, Tight End, Minnesota 6'4 250 LBS -- Maxx Williams is the best tight end in this draft class. Williams lacks the numbers of past tight ends that became first-round selections, but Minnesota had a great running game and rarely passed the ball. When he was targeted, he made plays as a sure-handed receiver and a beast in the open field. He looks like an NFL Tight End and would fit perfectly in this offense.
Marcus Peters, Cornerback, Washington 6'0 198 LBS -- In Marcus Peters, they would be getting a physical, aggressive and athletic corner with shutdown ability. His scouting reports claim he can play both man to man and zone. Buyers beware; he has some character issues coming in. He was dismissed from the Washington football program before season's end due to friction between Peters and his coaching staff. Ozzie and the War Room will need to do their due diligence before making this selection.
Trae Waynes, Cornerback, Michigan State 6'3 183 LBS -- Waynes played on a great defense at Michigan State and understands what it's like to compete and win at a high level. He uses his body and length to gain inside leverage and keep outside receivers from getting comfortable vertically. Waynes is a tough-minded competitor and plays with a physical style. He's also not afraid to come up and hit somebody in run support. With his frame I believe he can get bigger, faster, and stronger with the Ravens Strength and Conditioning program. Scouts compare him to standout Bears Corner Kyle Fuller.
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