Ravens add athletic LB Trenton Simpson in 3rd round

The Baltimore Ravens selected Clemson linebacker Trenton Simpson in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft, 86th overall.

Simpson's athletic profile is remarkably impressive and should allow him to contribute early.

He'll join a linebacker room that includes Roquan Smith and Patrick Queen.

Pre-draft profile

Simpson has all the physical tools a team could want in a linebacker, but the mental processing isn't there yet. Thankfully, the Clemson product will only be 22 in June and has plenty of development ahead of him. A good positional coach will give him a defined role that leverages his athleticism and man-coverage skills while honing his ability to diagnose the run and get to depth in zone. An improved ability to analyze plays will allow Simpson to make his tackling a strength by providing better angles for chasing down ball carriers with the speed he showcased in his 4.43 40-yard dash. While he comes in a bit high, his mentality and willingness to engage are on full display, and he also offers some flexibility in the blitz. If he can slow the game down and develop the instincts to match his athletic traits, Simpson could end up being the best linebacker in this class.