Hayden Hurst

While I'm typically against drafting rookie tight ends, Hurst may be an exception to the rule. He's already 25 years old, so it's unlikely the Ravens want to waste his prime athletically. Next, it's not an offense that favors the wide receivers. In fact, it's one that favors the tight end position, which is likely why the Ravens also added Mark Andrews in the third-round. Ravens tight ends have accounted for 285 targets, 214 receptions, 1,740 yards, and 10 touchdowns over the last two seasons, and that was with Dennis Pitta (who hadn't played football in years) and 37-year-old Ben Watson as the featured players. Hurst's ball-tracking is on a different level than most rookies, so don't be shocked to see him walk into 80-plus targets in year-one.

Hayden Hurst goes to the Ravens with 25th pick

With the 25th pick in the NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens selected South Carolina tight end Hayden Hurst.

Fantasy Impact

After trading back twice, it seemed all but certain that the Ravens would be taking a wide receiver here, though tight end was one of their biggest needs coming in. Hurst is the most pro-ready tight end in the draft and will walk in as the starter immediately. After signing Michael Crabtree, John Brown, and Willie Snead, the Ravens have surrounded Joe Flacco with some solid options. It's clear that this is make-or-break time for Flacco. While some have wondered about Hurst's age (he'll be 25 when the season starts), most tight ends aren't a movable chess piece or athletic as he is. Knowing how often Flacco targets tight ends, Hurst could have top-10 upside in his rookie season, though you'll be best-suited if he's the No. 2 tight end on your team with some upside.