Ravens nearly traded back before selecting Vega Ioane
Baltimore explored its options but ultimately trusted its board when it mattered most.
Draft night rarely unfolds without a few tense moments and surprises. Few teams hold their cards closer to their vests than the Baltimore Ravens . Then came the selection of Olaivavega Ioane .
As exciting as it was, though probably unsurprising, it was preceded by a moment that could have changed everything. Eric DeCosta and Jesse Minter spoke with the media after Round 1. Per DeCosta, Baltimore received a call before turning in their draft card.
They considered trading back. It was a real possibility, one that could have added more draft capital and reshaped the board. In the end, it didn't materialize.
That decision speaks volumes. The Ravens didn't outright reject the idea of moving back. They considered it carefully.