Feb. 23, 2026, 10:05 a.m. ET
The Baltimore Ravens have long built their identity from the inside out, but the defensive tackle room suddenly comes with more questions than usual. Nnamdi Madubuike’s long-term future isn’t fully settled, even as Travis Jones (through 2028) and John Jenkins (through 2026) are under contract, providing short-term stability. That combination creates an interesting draft dynamic.
Baltimore doesn’t necessarily need an early investment, but no one would complain if they took one. Adding a developmental piece late would be smart roster insurance.
Everyone has their theory, and here’s one you may share. Few would complain if Baltimore took some young studs early. No one would complain if they double-dipped either. That said, here are some prospects who might be available during the third day of the coming 2026 NFL Draft.
In a defense that relies on rotation, gap discipline, and physical interior play to keep linebackers clean and edge rushers free, history suggests they shouldn’t ignore talent if it’s there. Might these be a handful of late-round options that satisfy the blueprint?
Disciplined, technically refined, and battle-tested in the SEC, Christen Miller didn’t flash statistically, but he projects as a rotational lineman who can hold up against the run early while developing pass-rush counters to be relied upon later.
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Length and upside make Cameron Ball appealing. Baltimore has a track record of maximizing traits-based defensive linemen, and his frame offers developmental intrigue.
A quick first step and an ability to penetrate the interior give Durant sub-package value. He could provide situational pass rush behind Jones while he grows, gains experience, and captures a larger role. He notched 25 tackles, four sacks, two passes batted, and an interception last season.
Tim Keenan III is a classic Ravens fit with a strong anchor and heavy hands. He has proven to be productive against elite competition. Try 16 tackles, two sacks, and one pass batted in 2025 on for size. He projects as a dependable rotational run defender.
Rayshaun Benny is physical and assignment-sound. He brings the kind of toughness Baltimore covets. He projects as a space-eater who does the dirty work. He tallied 35 tackles with 1.5 sacks in 2025.
We’re betting on traits, as well as on size and movement skills worth developing over time. Late rounds are exactly where teams swing on upside like this. Jeffrey M’Ba has plenty, as evidenced by a solid week in Mobile at the most recent Senior Bowl.
In closing:
The Ravens don’t need immediate starters here — they need future flexibility. With contracts evolving and defensive fronts constantly rotating, adding a young tackle late would quietly protect the roster against uncertainty. In Baltimore, that’s not an optional strategy. That’s how sustained contention is built.