Ravens approaching draft with Lamar Jackson in mind

With the recent signing of veteran WR Odell Beckham Jr., the Baltimore Ravens seem ready to draft with a win-now mentality and Lamar Jackson as their starting QB. That means the Ravens probably will target more receivers in the draft.

In late March, Jackson — who's seeking a lucrative, long-term contract extension — requested a trade from Baltimore, but no other teams are known to be interested in acquiring the 2019 NFL MVP.

Baltimore has been rumored to be exploring trading down in the first round. The Ravens, who have the 22nd pick in the first round, have five draft picks, their fewest since 1999. If they do trade down, it could limit them on options at receiver. 

ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. predicts receivers Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Ohio State), Zay Flowers (Boston College) and Jordan Addison (USC) will be off the board by the time the Ravens select.

Unless Baltimore shows a willingness to move up, which it has rarely done, it could be looking at Quentin Johnston of TCU or perhaps Addison if he slides. Kiper projects him to go to the Chargers at pick 21

Addison has average height (5-foot-11) and a below-average frame (173 pounds) for the position. He is an excellent route runner but could struggle against more physical NFL corners. Addison must bulk up or risk getting jammed.  

Johnston is a big-bodied receiver (6-foot-3, 208 pounds) who has all the physical traits to thrive in the NFL. Per NFL Draft expert Daniel Jeremiah, however, Johnston isn't confident in his hands, which leads to him dropping more passes than a player of his caliber should. 

If he improves, Johnston could be the steal in the late first or early second round, where Kiper projects him to be selected. Johnston could be a great over-the-middle threat for the Ravens to pair with Rashod Bateman and Beckham, who have the ability to stretch the field.

Addison and Johnston come with enough questions that they could slip to Baltimore in the 20s. No Baltimore wideout had more than 458 yards receiving last season, so the Ravens clearly need a boost in the air.