OWINGS MILLS — The Ravens selected six players in the 2023 draft. A couple played key roles. Others will look to compete for more playing time next season.
Here’s a look at how that class performed:
Wide Receiver Zay Flowers
Selection: First round (22nd overall)
2023 Regular Season: 16 games, 16 starts
Analysis: Flowers had a strong rookie year and led the team in receptions (77) and yards (858) with five touchdowns. He became a primary target for quarterback Lamar Jackson and will continue to be a primary target next season.
Inside linebacker Trenton Simpson
Selection: Third round (86th overall)
2023 Regular Season: 15 games, 0 starts
Analysis: Simpson showed the potential of his play-making ability in the regular-season finale against the Steelers, finishing with five tackles, including his first career sack that forced a third-and-20. He also had two tackles for a loss and played a season-high 26 defensive snaps. He could take over the starting role next season for Patrick Queen, who is a free agent.
Defensive end Tavius Robinson
Selection: Fourth round (124th overall)
2023 Regular Season: 17 games, 1 start
Analysis: Robinson finished with 25 tackles and also had a key role on special teams. He had his first career start against the Cleveland Browns in Week 4, with Odafe Oweh hampered by an injured ankle. Robinson will continue to be part of the rotation at linebacker next season.
Cornerback Kyu Blu Kelly
Selection: Fifth round (157th overall)
2023 Regular Season: 0 games
Analysis: Kelly had six tackles and a pass breakup during the preseason for the Ravens. He was placed on waivers at the end of training camp with the hope he would be put on the practice squad, but he was claimed by the Seattle Seahawks. He also spent time with the Packers and Commanders last season.
Offensive lineman Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu
Selection: Sixth round (199th overall)
2023 Regular Season: 0 games
Analysis: It was essentially a red-shirt year for Aumavae-Laulu, who also dealt with a couple of injuries and learned to adjust to the speed of the NFL. Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu will have the chance to compete for the starting job at right guard next season.
Offensive lineman Andrew Vorhees
Selection: Seventh round (229th overall)
2023 Regular Season: 0 games.
Analysis: Vorhees also had a red-shirt year as he recovered from a torn anterior cruciate ligament that he suffered while participating in the Scouting Combine. The Ravens see a huge upside with Vorhees because of his versatility with being able to play both guard and tackle.
