With only a couple of weeks until the NFL Draft, teams around the league have been trading or releasing players to free up some cap room for players in the draft. On Tuesday, the Baltimore Ravens traded away Timmy Jernigan and they’re No. 99 overall pick to the Philadelphia Eagles for No. 74 overall pick.
“Timmy has been a terrific player for us for three seasons,” said General Manager Ozzie Newsome. “This will allow our young group of defensive linemen an opportunity to compete and play.”
Since Jernigan’s breakout season in 2014, where he had five sacks and was one of the defensive leaders. However, due to inconsistent play, the Ravens decided to trade him for a move up the draft ladder.
This move helps out the Ravens, who are looking for a defensive tackle that can impact a game, have quick feet, tackle well, and someone who could put pressure on the quarterback. Last season the Ravens were ranked 7th in total defense in the league.
The top prospects that the Ravens could look into are Jonathan Allen (Alabama), Malik McDowell (Michigan State), Caleb Brantley (Flordia) and Larry Ogunjobi (Charlotte). All of these young men dominated the field at the DT position and could intrigue the Ravens.
The best fit for the Ravens would be Jonathan Allen from Alabama. Allen is fast and is very good with tackling on the edge and instinctive. He is a straight nose hitter that will hit you dead on target. With a few good mentors, Allen could possibly make his case for Rookie of the year with this organization if he is not taken before the Ravens’ get their pick.
