The Baltimore Ravens still have a glaring need at pass rusher despite using high draft choices on a pair of edge players in recent years.
Odafe Oweh, a first-round selection in 2021, has just 13 sacks in his career. David Ojabo, a second-round pick in 2022, only has two sacks in two seasons even though many felt he was a steal two years ago. As of this writing, the two are set to be the key pieces attacking the passer.
The truth is neither has lived up to his draft slot, hence why Baltimore added Jadeveon Clowney and Kyle Van Noy to the mix in 2023. That duo combined for 18.5 sacks, but Clowney recently signed with the Carolina Panthers. Van Noy still remains a free agent and a reunion is possible, but not at the same asking price from a year ago.
The Ravens are sure to add a veteran at some point this offseason, whether it’s Van Noy or another free agent who won’t break the bank. They also need to look in the draft for an impact player since Oweh could be a free agent at the end of the season.
With Baltimore losing most of its pass rush production from a year ago, adding another edge defender makes a lot of sense. Let’s dive deeper into Missouri’s Darius Robinson, one of the best pass rushers in the Big 12.
Darius Robinson
Height: 6-foot-5
Weight: 285 pounds
Strengths: Has a high motor that Ravens will covet; played defensive line early in career before switch to the edge his senior season; that flexibility will make him a chess piece along the line; moves decent for a man of his size; terrific in the run game, shedding blockers and running down ball carriers; his power will overwhelm some offensive linemen.
Weakness: He relies on his power too often, lacking any true pass-rush skills; lacks the elite first step off the line which allows linemen to get hands on him; change of direction is a concern.
NFL Player Comparison: Rashan Gary
Draft Projection: Late Day 1 — Day 2
Robinson would slide into the Ravens’ rotation along the defensive line to take the vacated roles of Clowney and Van Noy. He would be a great fit at defensive end alongside Justin Madubuike, giving Baltimore two standouts up front. He is strictly a down lineman, so he makes more sense at end than one of the outside linebacker positions. He is not a player you want to see dropping into coverage.
The Ravens need the cheap talent up front after signing Madubuike to a massive deal. They have to make a decision on Oweh’s fifth-year option, and it’s hard to imagine them exercising that at this stage. Michael Pierce and Brent Urban are getting up there in age, and they’ve gotten very little from Ojabo. Robinson fits the mold of a great run defender and a high-motor and high-upside prospect. It is possible Baltimore drops back a few spots and still lands Robinson, but regardless if the Ravens take him at No. 30 or in the second round, I love the fit between the two sides.
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Missouri Athletics