Ravens HC John Harbaugh discloses Lamar Jackson ‘will watch tape’ of WR prospects in the NFL Draft to help the team after Odell Beckham Jr’s exit

The Ravens are relying upon Lamar Jackson’s input for scouting wide receivers because of the significant losses in their offensive line.

Ravens HC John Harbaugh discloses Lamar Jackson ‘will watch tape’ of WR prospects in the NFL Draft to help the team after Odell Beckham Jr’s exit

John Harbaugh enlisted Lamar Jackson to help after Odell Beckham Jr's exit (Via Imago/Newsweek)

Having a good receiver largely affects a team’s ability to be a contender. That’s why, the Baltimore Ravens’ head coach John Harbaugh doesn’t want to compromise the position while drafting a potential receiver in the upcoming NFL draft. 

This offseason, John Harbaugh is taking quite an unconventional approach to picking out the top prospects for them. Keeping in mind the dynamics between a receiver and quarterback, he has enlisted elite quarterback Lamar Jackson as a “part-time scout” for the 2024 NFL draft. 

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On Tuesday, Harbaugh told the reporters that the reigning MVP has been tasked with the crucial assignment ahead of the NFL Draft– to find a worthy receiver to solidify the offensive line. 

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He looks at guys on tape. Lamar has never been shy about sharing his opinion about draft picks or free agents. He hasn’t weighed in quite yet, but he will.
Harbaugh said during the pre-draft press conference

One of the prime reasons why head coach Harbaugh and the Ravens are relying upon Jackson’s input for scouting wide receivers is because of the significant losses in the franchise’s offensive line. Given the fact, that receivers are the primary targets for the quarterbacks during the passing plays, having the QB’s insight on the ideal lineman to safeguard him can turn out to be exactly what Baltimore needs at the moment. Moreover, filling in the shoes of star receiver Odell Beckham Jr., who has stepped into the free agency market, wouldn’t be easy for both the player as well as the team. 

John Harbaugh aims to rebuild offensive line amidst departures

Harbaugh, who is known to be the mastermind behind Baltimore’s success, shared at the NFL Combine that the top priority for the franchise, for now, is rebuilding its offensive line of the offense. Given, that the team’s three key linemen–John Simpson, Kevin Zeitler, and Morgan Moses have parted ways. 

Despite the hurdles, head coach and General Manager Eric DeCosta are viewing it as an opportunity to rejuvenate the entire offense and work towards a different approach. 

We’ve always had a lot of draft picks…That’s by design. We feel that’s the best way to build your team long-term.
Eric DeCosta said
John Harbaugh and Lamar Jackson
John Harbaugh and Lamar Jackson (via People)

Moreover, this gives the Ravens the perfect opportunity to stage a comeback. Something that can possibly be achieved by drafting young and budget-friendly prospects from the Class of 2024. 

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