The Ravens have one of the best safety trios in the NFL.

All-Pro Kyle Hamilton is a master of all trades with unmatched versatility and ability to affect the game in all three phases. 2025 first-rounder Malaki Starks flashed as a high-upside playmaker on the back end during his rookie year, and former Patriots Jaylinn Hawkins was a value signing in free agency to serve as the No. 3 in 2026.

In other words, the Ravens do not need to draft a safety this weekend. But this is a team that loves to invest in their secondary with a former defensive backs coach now leading the team. Spending a premium pick would be unwise, but do not rule out a safety selection entirely (especially with 11 picks!).

Here are Baltimore Beatdown’s top safety prospects for the 2026 draft with selected scouting notes:

1. Caleb Downs, Ohio State (No. 12 on Baltimore Beatdown’s Big Board)

Great understanding of role and position on the field. Plays at both free and strong safety. Efficient tackler in open space.

Versatile safety who leveraged his athleticism and range into 8 career interceptions. True definition of last line of defense as a run defender in the open field.

Matchup piece that has zone instincts. Effective vs the run and good zone technique

Kamari Ramsey is a versatile safety who can line up at all three spots but is best suited for a split-safety role that highlights his vision, competitiveness at the catch point, and closing speed (4.47-second 40-yard dash at the Combine). His sense of urgency as a run defender is lacking, and though his missed tackle rate dropped significantly in 2025, his technique and physicality will be challenged in the NFL. As a result, his early snaps may only come in dime packages and obvious passing situations, but he has plenty of special teams experience. His injury history raises durability concerns, and he may not have a high ceiling, but Ramsey will find ways to contribute on his rookie deal.

9. V.J. Payne, Kansas State (No. 135 overall, Red Star from Yuri)

A well-sized, high-upside defensive back with the mental bandwidth to handle a variety of roles and responsibilities. Thrives as a physical box safety near the line of scrimmage but high-end speed provides intriguing range and developmental upside. Could evolve into a more complete, scheme-versatile defender at the next level.

10. Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina (No. 136 overall)

12. Bishop Fitzgerald, Southern California (No. 186 overall)