As part of the online coverage leading up to the NFL draft, The Sun will look at prospects who could be available for the Ravens with the 25th overall pick.
Kareem Jackson
Cornerback, Alabama
It would be considered a stretch for the Ravens to select Jackson with the 25th overall pick. But he would be one of their top candidates if they traded back early in the second round.
Jackson is a durable, three-year starter for the national champions and coach Nick Saban, whose connection with general manager Ozzie Newsome dates back to the Cleveland Browns. He's a solid all-around corner who shows good instincts against the pass and dependable tackling against the run.
"I want to get better at everything I do; as far as my game, as far as my technique," Jackson said. "But I think my physicality will help me a whole lot, at the line of scrimmage. We played a lot of press-man; I think that'll help me a whole lot and be able to transfer from college to the next level."
The drawback on Jackson is he lacks elite speed. Receivers can get separation on him on comeback routes and can beat him deep because Jackson has the tendency to gamble.
One scout told Pro Football Weekly, "Kareem Jackson is overrated. He plays too much on his heels and is not as strong or physical as you would expect. The only time he covers is when he opens and runs vertically, and he did not get challenged a lot."
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