Baltimore Ravens Get 2 Compensatory Picks, Extra Options

Fans concerned about the Ravens' measly six draft picks can rest easy, as the NFL announced that the Ravens would get a fourth and fifth round choice in compensatory picks.

For those wondering, the Ravens were given these picks based on the contracts that Chris Chester, Josh Wilson and Dawan Landry signed in free agency last year.

All three signed big contracts and started 16 games, so the Ravens were granted reasonably high compensatory picks to account for the loss of these free agents.

The picks are 130th and 169th overall, and they really help a team that needs to build depth all throughout the roster.

Another benefit of these picks is that the Ravens got back into the fourth round, as they previously lacked a fourth round pick due to their trade for Lee Evans.

If necessary, the Ravens can feel more comfortable using their regular picks as trade bait to move up, knowing that they have extra picks. While compensatory selections can't be traded, they make the Ravens other picks more expendable.

With only six picks previously, the Ravens' options were limited, but now they have a lot more flexibility. They could choose to use some of their eight picks to move up in the draft, or they could choose to try to accumulate even more picks. 

Of course, standing pat is also an option, but the Ravens are generally among the draft's movers and shakers.

The Ravens had great success last year with their compensatory selections, drafting Chykie Brown and Pernell McPhee in the fifth round.

McPhee in particular has proven to be a steal, as his six sacks were eighth among rookies. With an expanded role coming in 2012, expect even more from McPhee as he grows into a potential starter at defensive end.

Brown, meanwhile, didn't make as big of an impact, but he should grow into a quality role player in the secondary and also help out on special teams.

Looking into the future, don't be surprised if the Ravens acquire a few compensatory picks next year as well. They have lost far more free agents than they've signed, so they should manage to snag a few extra picks.

All in all, this is a great piece of news that should help the Ravens and their fans get even more excited for the draft.