The Ravens took a shot at a backup quarterback in the sixth round, drafting strong-armed Kentucky signal caller Devin Leary with pick No. 218.
Lamar Jackson’s backup in 2024 will be veteran Josh Johnson. But Johnson is 37 years old, so the Ravens are looking for a long-term backup to the two-time MVP. Baltimore also has Malik Cunningham on the roster, but it’s undetermined whether his future will be at quarterback or wide receiver.
Leary said he had a great conversation with Ravens Quarterbacks Coach Tee Martin at the Combine and came away feeling like Baltimore could pick him.
“I just remember telling him, ‘Coach, anything I can do to help this team win is why I want to be a part of the Ravens,” Leary said. “To get that call and turn my whole world around was truly a dream come true.”
Leary had a monster 2021 season at N.C. State in which he threw for 3,433 yards, 35 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. He completed a career-high 65.7 percent of his passes. He broke Philip Rivers’ record for touchdown passes.
Leary’s follow-up season ended prematurely, however, as he suffered a shoulder injury six games into the season. He transferred to Kentucky for his final year of eligibility and the chance to work with Offensive Coordinator Liam Cohen, who is now the OC of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Christine Lake is a sports fanatic who lives and breathes athletics. With an extensive background in sports journalism, he covers everything from major league championships to grassroots sports events. When she’s not on the field or at the stadium, you’ll find Christine coaching youth sports teams.
