Last season reignited the debate over who is the better quarterback: Lamar Jackson or Josh Allen. Even though Allen won more MVP votes, many believe Jackson was the more deserving candidate.
Both players were part of the standout 2018 quarterback draft class. Allen was picked seventh by the Bills, while the Ravens traded back into the first round to select Jackson at No. 32. In a hypothetical redraft today, both would be considered top overall selections.
According to a redraft conducted by Pro Football Focus (PFF), Allen would be chosen first overall. Their analysis noted that Allen started slowly but has since posted five straight seasons with overall grades above 90—the only quarterback since 2006 to do so. In this scenario, he goes to the Cleveland Browns.
Jackson, who has multiple MVPs and was the first QB in PFF history to earn 90+ grades in both passing and rushing in the same season (2024), was redrafted by the New York Giants at No. 2.
Isaiah Likely’s Injury Doesn’t Lower Expectations for Ravens
Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely suffered a foot fracture at the end of a recent practice and will undergo surgery. However, he still has a chance to return for the season opener in Buffalo.
Reporter Jeff Zrebiec emphasized that the injury shouldn’t cause concern or change expectations for Baltimore. The team has enough offensive depth to withstand Likely’s potential absence.
The Ravens held onto veteran tight end Mark Andrews, the franchise’s all-time leader in receiving touchdowns. They also have Charlie Kolar, who has performed well when given the opportunity and is expected to take on a bigger role.
This situation may even help re-energize other key playmakers. Andrews might return strong after a rough end to 2024. DeAndre Hopkins could become a bigger early target, and younger talents like Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, Devontez Walker, and Keaton Mitchell could see increased opportunities.
How Many First-Round Picks Are Ravens Stars Worth?
In a thought experiment, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell imagined what NFL stars would cost in trade value.
He said Lamar Jackson would be worth four first-round picks, citing Jackson’s argument as the top player in the league. However, some teams might be hesitant to reshape their systems around his unique skillset.
Safety Kyle Hamilton, once considered a fallback pick in 2022, has developed into a star. Barnwell believes he’d demand two first-round picks. Hamilton helped lead the elite 2023 Ravens defense and thrived after being moved to free safety midseason.
Other Ravens on Barnwell’s trade-value radar include Zay Flowers, cornerback Nate Wiggins, defensive tackle Justin Madubuike, and safety Malaki Starks—all potentially worth a first-round pick or more.
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