What Led to the Ravens Drafting T.J. Tampa

27/04/2024 Simeon AMERICAN FOOTBALL 0

An Insight into the Ravens’ Decision to Select T.J. Tampa at Pick No. 130.

During a press briefing following the conclusion of Day 2 at the 2024 NFL Draft, Baltimore Ravens GM Eric DeCosta outlined the team’s strategy for the upcoming rounds: simply picking the best football talent available. DeCosta emphasized a flexible approach, indicating a willingness to prioritize skill over specific positional needs. This philosophy, he noted, allows for a more open-minded selection process, unencumbered by rigid roster considerations.

While the choice of Devontez Walker, a wide receiver from North Carolina, early in the fourth round addressed a pressing positional need, the selection of Iowa State cornerback T.J. Tampa at No. 130 did not align directly with immediate roster gaps. Despite this, it exemplified DeCosta’s earlier statement, demonstrating a commitment to talent acquisition over positional necessity. This move, notably, followed the Ravens’ earlier first-round pick of Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins, further illustrating the team’s faith in bolstering their defensive backfield.

Tampa’s draft trajectory was a subject of intrigue entering Day 3, as his fall from grace surprised many draft analysts. Initially touted as a potential Day 2 selection, if not a fringe first-rounder, Tampa’s availability at the end of the fourth round presented an irresistible opportunity for the Ravens. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch, weighing 189 pounds, with 32-inch arms, Tampa possesses desirable physical attributes. His proficiency in physical press-man coverage, a hallmark of the Ravens’ defensive style, made him an attractive prospect for the team’s defensive scheme, solidifying his value despite positional redundancies.

Tampa boasts an impressive college career, starting in 29 games, including all 12 in each of the last two seasons. His stats include 16 pass breakups, eight tackles for loss, and three interceptions, two of which were in 2023. Known for his coverage skills, he allowed only one touchdown in 900 defensive snaps and demonstrates a tenacious approach to tackling, aligning well with the Ravens’ defensive philosophy.

The Ravens’ selection of Tampa strengthens their cornerback depth, particularly after the departure of veterans Ronald Darby and Rock Ya-Sin in free agency. These losses, impactful in the league’s top-ranked defense last season, highlight the need for reinforcements. Additionally, it safeguards against future gaps, ensuring the team won’t face a similar urgency to find starting caliber talent in next year’s draft if Brandon Stephens leaves in free agency. Stephens, a 2021 third-rounder, has shown promise but enters the final year of his rookie contract.

While Tampa may primarily contribute on special teams initially, given the depth chart ahead of him, his performance in this role could earn him regular defensive snaps. With considerations like the age, salary, and durability of Marlon Humphrey, a three-time Pro Bowler, the Ravens may view Tampa as a potential future starter, secured at excellent value as a Day 3 pick.