2011 NFL Draft: Grading the Baltimore Ravens Team Draft

The Baltimore Ravens, fresh off a disappointing AFC Divisional game loss to the division rival Pittsburgh Steelers, went into 2011’s NFL Draft with high hopes of getting offensive play makers at wide receiver, and a legit No. 1 corner.

Mission accomplished. Jimmy Smith being drafted gives them a physical presence who is a surefire tackler and a press coverage monster. The Ravens selected Maryland wide receiver Torrey Smith in the second round, while grabbing Indiana possession receiver Tandon Doss in the fourth, giving them two potential No. 2 wide receivers to compliment AnQuan Boldin.

Take a look as we dissect each selection for the Ravens here:

Round 1, Pick 27: Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado

Despite the off-field issues and admittance of codeine abusing, Smith’s on the field performance makes him a legit No. 1 pick, and he’s a guy who could have went even higher had some quarterbacks not been reached for. The Ravens need a legit No. 1 corner, and Smith could take over that role as soon as the latter part of 2011 if he can work his way in.

Grade: A

Round 2, Pick 58: Torrey Smith, WR, Maryland

Overall, I like the pick. I’m not a huge fan of Torrey Smith myself with his 8 5/8 inch hands, and inability to run more than just a few basic routes. But he’s a great fit for the Ravens who need a speedster who can create mismatches and make plays under the big arm of Joe Flacco.

Grade: B

Round 3, Pick 85 (from Philadelphia) Jah Reid, OT, Central Florida

I really like the Jah Reid pick, and I think he’s in a great position to start at right tackle in 2012 and maybe sniff a bit of playing time in 2011. Marshall Yanda hasn’t been consistent, and is a potential free agent, as is Jared Gaither. Reid is a big mauler at 330 pounds and a great fit for the Ravens.

Grade: B+

Round 4, Pick 123 Tandon Doss, WR, Indiana

Tandon Doss has had his share of ups and downs at Indiana. But he does a nice job of fighting for the football and locating it in the air. He plays a bit more physical than he does quick. Doss could be a factor to fit in as a No. 2 receiver in two or three seasons. He’s a project and probably could have been had a round later.

Grade: C+

Round 5, Pick 164 Chykie Brown, CB, Texas

I’m in love with the Chykie (Shockey) Brown selection. Brown is the most under rated former member of the Texas secondary, and he’s stock with potential. While he’s not extremely athletic, he’s a big time tackler and a perfect fit for the AFC North.

Grade: A-

Round 5, Pick 165 Pernell McPhee, DE, Mississippi State

There’s some upside to McPhee who demonstrated a nice ability to rush the passer on several occasions over the past few seasons. The Ravens have always been a great finder in pass rushing talent, and McPhee could turn into a solid pick if utilized properly.

Grade: B

Round 6, Pick 180 (from Rams) Tyrod Taylor, QB, Virginia Tech-

I think in the sixth round, getting a strong armed athlete like Taylor was a good gamble. If Joe Flacco goes down, the Ravens could be in trouble. While Taylor is a good 5-6 inches shorter than Flacco, and plays a different style game than Flacco, he could be groomed into an above average backup.

Grade: B-

Round 7, Pick 225 (from Philadelphia) Anthony Allen, RB, Georgia Tech

It’s hard to truly evaluate Georgia Tech running backs. The triple option certainly doesn’t show off their best abilities. But Allen showed up to the Senior Bowl and performed well in drills, and turned some heads. Allen could be in the discussion for a backup runner to Ray Rice.

Grade: B-

Overall Grade: B+

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