Raven Kyle Hamilton

Raven Safety Kyle Hamilton: 7th IDP Off the Board / Selected 14th Overall

” Outstanding ball skills to deflect/intercept passes. Unmatched range.”

–  Gridiron Ratings 2022 Rookie NFL Draft Guide

Kyle Hamilton landing in Baltimore was one of the most intriguing selections in the Draft. Many Draft analysts considered him as the Draft’s #1 overall prospect. The Ravens bolstered their league worst secondary by adding the best Safety in the Draft. Already deep at Safety, the Ravens will be adding an extremely versatile playmaker to their defense. Hamilton will join a depth chart that includes veteran starters Marcus Williams and Chuck Clark. IDP fantasy gamers might ask, where does Hamilton fit in with two starting Safeties already in place?

Jack of All Trades

Hamilton is an awesome athlete who played many different roles for Notre Dame’s defense. He played every position in the secondary while in college. However, he did most of his damage while playing inside-the-box. Hamilton profiles best as a box Safety with his exceptional ability to diagnose plays and stop ball-carriers behind the line of scrimmage. He plays the run like a Linebacker and drops back into coverage with the skills of a Cornerback. I’m projecting the Ravens to install Hamilton as their main Nickel Linebacker. The Ravens lack depth at Linebacker beyond 3rd year veteran Patrick Queen.

It’s important to note that Queen struggled last season in the “Mike” LB role. Interestingly enough, it was reported that Hamilton was given the green dot during the Raven’s rookie minicamp. Chuck Clark wore the green dot and called the plays for the defense last season. I’m envisioning a role where Hamilton and Clark both see significant time rotating between Linebacker and Strong Safety. Creating a scenario where both players see a near every down role. Hamilton has ROTY potential with his talent and versatility. He represent a possible IDP cheat code as a Safety who could see heavy snaps at Linebacker. I think that he can establish himself as the Ravens best defensive player in year 1. He’s worth being the top drafted IDP in rookie Drafts.

Dynasty and Redraft Evaulations

In Dynasty, Hamilton is a top option in IDP rookie Drafts. He has the best odds of being the top scoring rookie DB. He will be a favorite for DROTY honors and possibly the top scoring rookie IDP in fantasy. Potential to be the DB1 overall in Dynasty.

In Redraft leagues, Hamilton should be drafted as a DB3. His role to begin the season is speculative. There’s still a lot of unknown where he will be deployed in the new DC Wink Martindale’s scheme. He could be used in sub-packages to begin the season. His upside remains high as a potential DB1 in Redraft.