Is 2nd-Round Pick David Ojabo Ravens' 'Biggest Bust'?
When the Baltimore Ravens used a second-round pick David Ojabo out of Michigan in the 2022 draft, they did so knowing there was a real possibility the talented edge rusher wouldn't see the field as a rookie.
As for why Ojabo was an unlikely contributor in 2022, he suffered a torn Achilles during his pro day. Despite that, though, he managed to return for two games. Now, as he enters his second season, and his first full season, Bleacher Report believes he could be the most likely bust candidate in 2023.
"There's a lot to like about David Ojabo," Bleacher Report writes. "The former Michigan Wolverine is an incredible athlete and could have been headed toward being a first-round selection before tearing his Achilles at his Pro Day."
As we know, the injury cost Ojabo the bulk of his rookie season, though he did work his way back play in two games while getting in 21 defensive snaps. All things considered - the injury and the early point in his career - "bust'' seems harsh.
Coming out of Michigan, Ojabo had only been a one-year starter. In that one season starting for the Wolverines he looked impressive though, recording 35 tackles, including 12 tackles for loss and 11 sacks, while forcing five fumbles and recovering another.
The talent is undeniably there for the second-year edge rusher, which leads again to the question: Why are we beating him up? "Achilles injuries can be difficult to come back from and usually require extra time to get back to complete recovery," Bleacher Report writes, which is true.
But is this true? "On paper, the Ravens are relying fairly heavily on Ojabo ... to have (a) breakout season. ... It's just probably a year too early to expect that for Ojabo."
If Ojabo lives up to the potential that made him a first-round prospect in his second season, then the Ravens defense will be that much better. However, even if he is still a little rusty coming back from injury, it would be far too soon to give up on what he can become.
You can find Connor Zimmerlee on Twitter @Connorjz98
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