Home / Sports / Ravens Trade Up for Unranked TE Matthew Hibner
Ravens Trade Up for Unranked TE Matthew Hibner
26 Apr
Summary
- Ravens traded up to select SMU tight end Matthew Hibner.
- Hibner was unranked on some draft boards but has athletic potential.
- The pick draws comparisons to successful past Ravens tight ends.
The Baltimore Ravens executed an unconventional draft-day maneuver, trading up to secure SMU tight end Matthew Hibner. This selection saw them move from pick No. 154 to No. 133 in the recent NFL Draft, a decision that has sparked discussion among analysts.
Hibner, while unranked on some draft boards, possesses an athletic profile featuring size, athleticism, and reliable hands. His potential to develop into a solid blocker, particularly in opening running lanes, is a key aspect highlighted by evaluators.
The Ravens' well-documented success in drafting and developing tight ends, exemplified by players like Isaiah Likely and the comparison to Charlie Kolar, lends confidence to this pick. Hibner's scheme versatility, allowing him to play in the slot, at wing, or in-line, along with his special teams capabilities, suggests he could fill various roles early on.
While some analysts expressed surprise at the trade-up for a player not highly rated on their boards, the Ravens' front office, under Eric DeCosta, has consistently found value in later-round tight end selections. The team's offensive staff evidently sees a significant role for Hibner, justifying the decision to acquire him.
