OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- A few quick thoughts on the Baltimore Ravens' sixth-round draft pick (204th overall).
The pick: Darren Waller, WR, Georgia Tech
My take: The Ravens needed to inject more playmakers in the passing game, and they wrap up their draft by taking a flier on deep threat. Waller averaged 19 yards per catch during his career, and the Ravens couldn't pass on such an imposing target (6-foot-6). Adding Waller's height and Breshad Perriman's speed was much needed for a wide receiver group that had a 35-year-old Steve Smith and a bunch of possession receivers.
Off-the-field concerns: This was the only player with character concerns drafted by the Ravens, who had eight players arrested the last two offseasons. Waller has been suspended for three games over the last two seasons for a violation of team rules. Ravens director of college scouting Joe Hortiz spoke with Waller about the issues, and the Ravens came away convinced by his explanation.
Following in the footsteps: Waller is the fourth Georgia Tech wide receiver drafted in the last eight years. Two of them have become Pro Bowl playmakers (Calvin Johnson and Demaryius Thomas) and the other (Stephen Hill) was a second-round bust for the New York Jets.