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Baltimore Ravens: How 2018 NFL Draft could save John Harbaugh’s job

By Michael Johnson

BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens calls a play at the line of scrimmage in the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at M&T Bank Stadium on December 31, 2017 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 31: Quarterback Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens calls a play at the line of scrimmage in the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bengals at M&T Bank Stadium on December 31, 2017 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /
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Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh’s job is on the line, and here’s what the team needs to do in the 2018 NFL Draft to save his spot.

After 16 years as Baltimore Ravens general manager, Ozzie Newsome will be stepping after the 2018 season. Newsome has been with the Ravens since before they made the move as an executive back in 1991. However, it wasn’t until 2002 that he’d become the first African American general manager. Not only is Newsome leaving, but his current head coach, John Harbaugh is on the hot seat. In fact, Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti considered firing Harbaugh this offseason. 

With Harbaugh on the hot seat, and Newsome has to be feeling a little bit responsible, especially for the play along with the offensive side of the ball. The Ravens narrowly missed the playoffs with a 9-7 — in large point thanks to the defense. Harbaugh will have to coach the Ravens into the playoffs or else get fired. On the other hand, the former All-Pro tight end turned general manager will need to hit on a couple of drafts picks if he wants to go out on top and to keep Harbaugh employed beyond 2018.

Here’s a look at the players he could target in the 2018 NFL Draft to do that.

Give Joe Flacco another weapon to throw to

The Ravens tried and failed to work out a trade for wide receiver Jarvis Landry, who would have been a seamless fit. Despite the Ravens signing both Michael Crabtree and former Arizona Cardinal John Brown, the Ravens still need a go-to guy, especially in the slot.

In the 2018 NFL Draft, it’ll be better to grab a wide receiver as early as possible, despite the other needs on the team. It’s all about taking the offense to the next level and getting a receiver who is ready and can contribute right away is a necessity.

Texas A&M wideout Christian Kirk is the ideal fit for the Baltimore offense. Kirk is the type of playmaker that can do damage after the catch. One of his best qualities as a receiver is the quickness and burst he shows with the ball in his hand. Part of the reason he’s so tough and effective as a ball carrier is due to his 5-10, 200-pound frame that he utilizes to help break tackles.

Kirk’s ability to run after the catch is similar to Steve Smith, who saw his career rejuvenated once he teamed up with Joe Flacco. Kirk could bring that same type of dynamic and immediately establish himself as a pitch and catch target.

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