The 2023 NFL draft is just a month away, and speculation abounds regarding the Baltimore Ravens’ big board heading into the annual selection meeting. No movement on quarterback Lamar Jackson’s contract seems imminent as the offseason wears on, and Baltimore has needs on both sides of the ball that will need to be addressed before the new season begins.
NFL.com analyst Tom Fornelli released his latest mock draft on Saturday and predicted that the Ravens would look to shore up their defense in the first round by selecting cornerback Deonte Banks. A University of Maryland product, Banks would be a great pickup for Baltimore, and a natural fit in their defense.
“Banks has everything you want from a corner as far as size, speed and athleticism are concerned. However, there is concern about his instincts as a defensive back. He only had one full season as a starter in college, so he may have to be brought along slowly, but the potential for an All-Pro corner exists.”
Banks’ six-foot-one frame and sub 4.4- forty yard dash time are exactly what scouts look for in modern boundary corners, and with Marcus Peters’ status for the 2023 season still undetermined, the former Terrapin would fill an immediate need for the Ravens.
Though the upside is evident for this blue-chip prospect, Banks still has some work to do on his technique and footwork to accel at the NFL level. He only managed to secure two interceptions over the course of his college career, which is a bit concerning, though not necessarily an indication that he won’t be able to produce at the next level with proper coaching and time to develop.
