The Baltimore Ravens just wrapped up an 11-pick draft, and nearly every move they made pointed back to one person: Lamar Jackson.
From stacking his receiver room to quietly maneuvering compensatory picks for future capital, Baltimore isn’t rebuilding. They’re reloading. And the way they’re doing it suggests a very clear, deliberate plan is already in motion.
Jeremiah Sees Sarratt as the Standout Weapon
GettyRavens Load Up Around Lamar Jackson
NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah broke down Baltimore’s offensive haul from the 2026 draft and landed on Elijah Sarratt as the receiver with the most immediate upside.
“I’m going to say Sarratt has the biggest impact of those receivers,” Jeremiah said. “Ja’Kobi Lane is going to be a red zone guy, but Sarratt can win on third down. He’s physical, he’s going to help the run game as well.”
Lamar definitely needs that kind of chess piece, somebody who gets playing time in important moments right from the start, rather than being just a developmental player who is low on the depth chart.
But Jeremiah didn’t stop there. He also identified Josh Cuevas, Baltimore’s second tight end from Alabama, as a sleeper who fans should keep an eye on.
The Ravens have a documented pattern of striking gold with their second tight end selection, Pitta in 2010, Andrews in 2018, and Likely in 2022. History says Cuevas isn’t just a depth pick. He could be the next foundational piece at the position.
This Is Bigger Than Just a Draft Class
GettyBaltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson.
Baltimore seems to be doing a lot more than just drafting weapons. They are devising a contract leverage ecosystem around Lamar Jackson, doing so with surgical precision.
Eric DeCosta said publicly, “I am confident Lamar will be here. I think he loves the team, he loves the city, he loves our fan base.” That’s not filler talk. That’s a GM managing optics while negotiations with a self-represented two-time MVP quietly continue in the background.
Lamar showing up for voluntary workouts under new head coach Jesse Minter is equally telling. He skipped them under Harbaugh repeatedly. The fact that he’s engaged now signals he’s bought into this new era, and the Ravens built a draft class around him to ensure he stays bought in.
Baltimore has checked all the boxes on paper this offseason. They have brought in new players, acquired more draft picks, managed salary cap well, and got a coach who clearly states the offense has to revolve around Lamar Jackson. The framework exists. The goals are clear.
Ravens Latest Decisions Around Lamar Jackson Feel Very Intentional