With their first selection of the fourth round, the Baltimore Ravens saw an opportunity to address an offseason need, taking Michigan guard Ben Bredeson with the 143rd overall pick of the 2020 NFL Draft. It’s a solid addition to Baltimore’s offensive line, earning a solid grade from us here at Ravens Wire.
Draft Grade: B
Bredeson, considered to be the best offensive lineman choice for the fourth round, fills an immediate depth need at guard for the Ravens, especially with the retirement of All-Pro stalwart Marshall Yanda. Bredeson also potentially brings some versatility to the offensive line. While he started all of his games at left guard for Michigan, he got snaps at center at the Senior Bowl as well.
As a stout and effective run-blocker, this choice makes a lot of sense for Baltimore’s power-heavy approach on offense. The Ravens’ offense features a stable of capable running backs that now includes second-round pick J.K. Dobbins, not to mention scrambling QB Lamar Jackson, so adding some blockers up front was a necessity.
Bredeson is a smart and strong blocker with experience in an RPO system. While very few fourth-round picks will start immediately upon coming into the NFL, Bredeson might actually have a shot to at least compete for the job with fellow draft pick Tyre Phillips and 2019 fourth-round selection Ben Powers, who is likely penciled in as the starter.
It’s also worth noting that Bredeson is going from one Harbaugh to another — Ravens coach John Harbaugh’s brother Jim coaches the Wolverines — something that may have helped facilitate this selection, dissuading the Baltimore from looking elsewhere.
