Michigan Football: Analyzing David Ojabo to the Baltimore Ravens

After seeing fellow pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson going #2 overall last night, another Wolverine pass rusher is off the board here in the second round of the NFL Draft. 

The Detroit Lions kept Detroit native Aidan Hutchinson home last night, and the Bengals made Daxton Hill a first-round pick as well. And tonight, on the second night of the Draft, Michigan football defensive end David Ojabo heard his name called, being selected by the Baltimore Ravens with the 45th overall pick.

Ojabo was previously considered a potential first-round pick, thanks to a breakout season where he tallied 11.0 sacks last season and was named a Second-Team All-American by the Associated Press, and First-Team All-Big Ten. However, an unfortunate torn Achilles at his Pro Day dropped him from the first round.

Instant Analysis of David Ojabo to the Ravens

Here’s what NFL.com’s Lance Zeirlein had to say about Ojabo as an NFL prospect:

"Emerging edge defender who should see a substantial leap in play consistency with more time to work on his technique and learn the game. The upside is evident, despite his inexperience. At times, the run tape can be a rough study, but it improved as the 2021 season progressed. Ojabo’s rush approach is fairly sophisticated with the feet and agility to juke, stutter, spin and race his way past offensive tackles. He’s not ready to take on pro run blockers, but Ojabo is in the early stages of his physical and play development. The Achilles tear he suffered at his pro day is likely to hurt his draft stock, but it will be hard for teams to pass on his upside if he remains available in the second round."

Ojabo reunites with former Michigan defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald in Baltimore.

While the Achilles injury will likely lead to Ojabo starting the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list, there is still a chance he recovers in time to see some time towards the end of this NFL season.

Largely though, this is an upside bet for the Ravens, adding a very talented Michigan player who could become a very good pass rusher down the road. Best of luck to David Ojabo in his recovery and long, prosperous NFL career to come!