Ravens predict Derrick Henry successor in 1st round; what it means for 2024.

The article examines the Baltimore Ravens’ long-term running back plans, focusing on Derrick Henry’s looming decline and a hypothetical 2027 NFL Draft pick to succeed him. It highlights Bleacher Report analyst Brent Sobleski’s prediction that Baltimore would select Florida running back Jaden (Jadan) Baugh with the No. 29 pick in the first round of the 2027 draft, noting Baugh’s size, patience, and lateral movement as ideal traits to preserve the Ravens’ offensive approach. The piece also situates this potential pick after Baltimore’s 2026 first-round selection of guard Vega Ioane, suggesting a strategy of drafting a big, versatile backfield to sustain the team’s identity for the next decade.

The article provides background on Baugh’s breakout seasons at Florida, including a standout 2025 campaign (1,173 rushing yards, 210 receiving yards, 10 total touchdowns) and a memorable 266-yard, 2-touchdown performance against Florida State. It also recounts the Ravens’ Day 3 addition of Clemson running back Adam Randall in the 2026 draft, emphasizing Randall’s size (6’3”, 232 pounds) and potential to complement Henry in Baltimore’s backfield, though noting injury history has impacted his career. The piece reinforces the broader narrative that the Ravens are building a durable, powerful running game through strategic draft picks to extend Henry’s era and maintain offensive consistency.

Key takeaways:
– Potential 2027 first-round pick: Jadan Baugh (Florida) as a Derrick Henry successor.
– Baugh profile: 6’1”, ~230 pounds, strong patience and lateral movement; could spell Henry and eventually lead the offense.
– Context: Following 2026 pick Vega Ioane (Penn State) and addition of Adam Randall (Clemson) in the Ravens’ evolving power-back strategy.
– Baugh’s breakout: 2025 stats include 1,173 rushing yards, 210 receiving yards, and a record-setting 266-yard game against Florida State.