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Ravens Eye Miami's Bain Jr. for Edge Rush Reinforcement
30 Jan
Summary
- Ravens' pass rush declined significantly in 2025 after a strong 2024 season.
- Miami's Rueben Bain Jr. is projected to be drafted by the Ravens at pick 14.
- Bain Jr. dominated college football, earning ACC Defensive Player of the Year.
The Baltimore Ravens' pass rush, a strength in 2024, became an underwhelming liability in 2025, recording the third-fewest sacks in the league. This defensive struggle has highlighted the team's need for an elite edge rusher, a role not consistently filled since Terrell Suggs' departure.
Initial projections for the 2026 NFL Draft place Miami's Rueben Bain Jr. within the Ravens' reach at pick No. 14. Bain Jr.'s impressive college performance, including a career-high 9.5 sacks in the 2025 season, earned him First Team All-American and ACC Defensive Player of the Year accolades.
Despite concerns about his arm length, Bain Jr.'s explosive get-off, bending ability, and strength make him a highly coveted prospect. He possesses the schematic flexibility to play both edge and interior pass rush, aligning with the Ravens' defensive philosophy under new head coach Jesse Minter.
To secure Bain Jr., the Ravens might need to trade up, with rivals like the Chiefs and Bengals also in need of edge rushers. Potential trade targets include picks No. 7 or 8, potentially pairing Bain Jr. with promising young player Mike Green to form a dynamic duo.
