The Baltimore Ravens made a bold move in the fourth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, trading up to secure SMU tight end Matt Hibner with the No. 133 overall pick. By sending their fifth-round selection (No. 154) and a 2027 sixth-rounder to move up, the Ravens made it clear they were eager to add depth and versatility to a position that's been a cornerstone of their offense. For a team that loves utilizing tight ends like Mark Andrews, Hibner's arrival is a promising sign for fans looking ahead to the season.
Hibner brings a productive resume to Baltimore, having served as a two-year starter for the Mustangs from 2024 to 2025. During that stretch, he hauled in eight touchdown receptions, the second-most among all ACC tight ends. That knack for finding the end zone, combined with his ability to contribute in multiple roles, makes him an intriguing fit for an offense that thrives on versatile playmakers. Whether he's blocking in the run game or slipping past defenders for a score, Hibner has the tools to make an immediate impact.
In his final collegiate season, Hibner appeared in all 13 games and started 12, setting career highs across the board. He recorded 31 receptions for 436 receiving yards—the fifth-most by a tight end in the ACC—and added four touchdown catches. He also showed consistency with four games of at least four receptions, including two outings where he snagged five passes. His standout performance came on November 29 against Cal, where he posted 87 receiving yards and a touchdown, showcasing his big-play potential when it matters most.
As the Ravens continue to build around Lamar Jackson's dynamic offense, adding a reliable target like Hibner in the middle rounds could prove to be a savvy move. Keep an eye on this rookie as he battles for playing time in a tight end room that's always in the spotlight.
