The Baltimore Ravens surprised fans by selecting SMU tight end Matthew Hibner with the 133rd pick, after trading up from 154 and a 2027 sixth-rounder to the San Francisco 49ers. This move came despite Hibner’s perception as a late Day 3 prospect and while the team had pressing needs at center and at receiving tight end, following the offseason departure of Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar.
Reaction among fans was predominantly negative and perplexed. Many pointed out that Hibner’s selection came without addressing the center position or selecting higher-profile tight ends like Michael Trigg or Justin Joly, both still available when Baltimore made the move. Social media feedback ranged from confusion to frustration directed at general manager Eric DeCosta, with critics arguing the team traded up for a depth tight end instead of immediate help at key positions.
Hibner’s profile: a 6’4”, 251-pound move tight end with reported 4.57-second 40-yard dash, 28 bench reps, and a high Relative Athletic Score. While he adds special teams value and fits some system needs, pre-draft expectations generally pegged him as a late-round option, making the trade-up cost appear steep to many observers. In summary, the move addressed tight end depth but left center and higher-ceiling receiving options on the board, fueling debate about whether this was the right strategic fit for Baltimore’s Draft plans.
Key Takeaways:
– Ravens traded up to pick 133 for Matthew Hibner, a move-tight end, over still-available pass-catching options and an unaddressed center need.
– Hibner brings athleticism and special teams value but was viewed by many as a late-Day 3 prospect.
– Fan reaction online skewed negative, citing the cost of the trade and missed opportunities at center and with other tight ends.
