The Baltimore Ravens grabbed their wide receiver, taking Oklahoma’s Marquise Brown with the 25th pick in the first round. With none of the wide receivers off the board, Baltimore had a perfect opportunity to get exactly the guy they wanted.
While the Ravens are likely pretty happy with their pick, Luke Easterling of Draft Wire isn’t quite as pumped. Easterling gives Baltimore a “B-” grade for the selection of Brown.
“This pick had to be a receiver, but Brown’s lack of size is concerning at just 166 pounds. With every receiver still on the board (including D.K. Metcalf), it just feels like the Ravens could have gotten a more complete pass-catcher here.”
It’s hard to argue with that assessment. The Ravens absolutely had to get a wide receiver in the first round since they were unable to trade back and get a second-round pick. But though Brown has big-play ability, he’s pretty undersized and underdeveloped in his route running.
Brown didn’t participate in the 2019 NFL scouting combine or Oklahoma’s pro day thanks to a foot injury. While Brown shouldn’t miss any time, it only underlines concerns over his durability.
Considering the Ravens have a bad track record at wide receiver, Brown is a player with a ton of upside but in need of some work to get there.
