Why history suggests Ravens should select CB at No. 22

After signing WR Odell Beckham Jr. to a one-year deal on Sunday, the Ravens biggest need heading into the 2023 NFL Draft is arguably cornerback. However, there is more than one reason Baltimore should draft a cornerback at pick No. 22.

Despite still needing a cornerback to pair with Marlon Humphrey in the secondary, the Ravens have only drafted the position four times in the first round, and it has worked out every time.

The latest example is Humphrey, Baltimore's 2017 first-round pick. The three-time Pro Bowler has 347 tackles, 12 interceptions and 71 passes defensed since entering the league.

Jimmy Smith was the Ravens' 2011 first-round pick and helped the team win Super Bowl XLVII. Smith played for Baltimore his entire career, spanning 11 seasons and totaling 374 tackles, 14 interceptions and 76 passes defensed.

The other two cornerbacks came in back-to-back drafts in 1998 and 1999, both playing a role in the team's Super Bowl XXXV victory. 

Chris McAlister, the Ravens 1999 first rounder, played 10 of his 11 seasons in Baltimore where he had 427 tackles, 26 interceptions and 137 passes defensed.

Duane Starks was the Ravens' first ever cornerback taken in the first round in 1998. He didn't play in Baltimore long, but his impact was significant. Starks posted 201 tackles, 20 interceptions and 73 passes defensed in just four seasons.

So, if history has taught the Ravens anything, and considering the fact that cornerback may be the most talented position group in the draft class, it feels like a no brainer Baltimore should go corner at No. 22.