Eric DeCosta’s revelation that the Baltimore Ravens use Madden ratings in their player evaluation process has sparked widespread discussion
While many fans and analysts remain skeptical, others appreciate the team’s willingness to explore new methods.
Ultimately, the effectiveness of this approach will be judged by the Ravens’ performance on the field. If Baltimore continues to draft and develop high-caliber players, DeCosta’s methods—regardless of how unconventional—may be validated.
For now, the debate continues: Are Madden ratings a valuable data point, or is their use in professional scouting simply a gimmick? Only time will tell how much of an impact this approach truly has on the Ravens and the rest of the NFL.
Eric DeCosta’s revelation about the secrecy surrounding the Ravens’ trade-up for Lamar Jackson highlights the strategic thinking that goes into building a championship-caliber team.
What once seemed like a risky move has become one of the defining moments in Ravens’ history, ensuring their place among the league’s elite for years to come.
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Baltimore Ravens GM Eric DeCosta’s Surprising Approach
Using Madden Ratings in Player Evaluation
During Super Bowl week, Baltimore Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta made headlines with an unexpected revelation.1
As all eliminated NFL teams turned their focus toward the offseason, DeCosta admitted that the Ravens incorporate Madden NFL player ratings into their evaluation process. This statement sparked significant discussion among football fans and analysts alike.
While the Ravens have a solid track record in drafting talented players—such as Zay Flowers, Kyle Hamilton, and Nate Wiggins over the past three years—DeCosta’s candid admission that Madden ratings play a role in their decision-making raised eyebrows.
The question on many minds is: Can a video game contribute to real-world football success?
Damn. I need to keep that cat in Maryland. Go Navy!🐐 https://t.co/yqTWCU3I3h
— The Mind of Eric DeCosta (@DecostaBrain) January 29, 2025
How the Ravens Utilize Madden Ratings
DeCosta explained that the Ravens rely on various models to assess player performance and potential. Among these models, Madden ratings serve as one of the numerous data points the team considers when grading players.
“For instance: Madden ratings. Who would have ever thought an NFL team would use Madden ratings in one of their models? Well, we do.
I’m giving you just a small piece of what we do. So we have these models that we use, and it spits out grades and values for players, and we use those,” DeCosta stated.
The statement revealed that the Ravens’ front office does not solely depend on Madden ratings but rather integrates them into a broader analytical framework. However, this revelation has led to a mixed reception among NFL fans and analysts.
The Role of Madden Ratings in Player Evaluation
- Madden NFL, developed by EA Sports, has been a staple of football video games for decades. Each year, the game assigns numerical ratings to players based on their skills, performance, and potential.
- These ratings are determined by a group of analysts who study NFL performances and make adjustments accordingly.
- While these ratings can provide a broad assessment of a player’s capabilities, they are often criticized for inconsistencies, outdated evaluations, and biases.
- Many players have voiced their frustration over what they perceive as inaccurate ratings, and fans frequently debate the rankings assigned to their favorite athletes.
- For an NFL general manager to acknowledge using Madden ratings as part of player evaluation is unconventional, to say the least.
- Traditionally, teams rely on scouting reports, game film, advanced analytics, and personal interviews to assess talent.
- Madden ratings, created for entertainment rather than professional scouting, have never been considered a serious tool for evaluating players—until now.
Eric DeCosta: Reactions from NFL Fans and Analysts
DeCosta’s statement triggered an immediate reaction on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter).2
NFL fans and analysts shared a range of opinions, from amusement to concern.
- “I remember when people would look at Kyle Hamilton’s speed rating on Madden and call him a bust. Shoutout EA,” joked one fan.
- “I would like to add that Madden ratings are not very accurate. So unless Eric is trying to mess with other teams, I really do like using Madden ratings to evaluate players,” another fan commented.
- “Considering Madden ratings are highly inaccurate, and non-star players typically carry the same rating for years out of laziness from EA, [that’s] not something that I want to hear from my GM,” another user expressed.
Many fans and analysts questioned the credibility of using a video game for professional scouting, while others speculated whether DeCosta was being entirely serious or simply trying to mislead other teams.
Madden Ratings: Accurate or Flawed?
One of the primary concerns about using Madden ratings in player evaluation is their accuracy. While EA Sports employs a dedicated team to assess players, the process is far from perfect. Several issues make Madden ratings unreliable:
- Lack of Real-Time Updates: Many players’ ratings remain unchanged for extended periods, even if their on-field performance significantly improves or declines.
- Bias Toward Star Players: High-profile players often receive favorable ratings, while lesser-known athletes may be underrated regardless of their actual performance.
- Arbitrary Adjustments: EA Sports has been known to alter ratings based on fan feedback and marketing considerations rather than objective performance metrics.
- Questionable Metrics: Some attributes, such as speed and awareness, have been debated by players and fans who believe they do not accurately reflect reality.
Given these flaws, critics argue that relying on Madden ratings for player evaluation is risky. However, some believe that integrating them as one of many data points might not be entirely unreasonable.
Eric DeCosta: The Rise of Analytics in Football
The NFL has increasingly embraced analytics over the past decade. Teams use advanced data tracking, AI-driven models, and player performance metrics to make strategic decisions.3
The use of Madden ratings, while surprising, could be seen as an extension of this trend—leveraging unconventional data sources to gain an edge.
However, analytics experts caution against overreliance on any single metric, especially one designed for a video game.
The best scouting and player evaluation methods incorporate a blend of data, film study, in-person scouting, and expert analysis.
Could Other NFL Teams Follow Suit?
With DeCosta openly acknowledging the use of Madden ratings, the question arises: Will other NFL teams explore similar strategies? While it is unlikely that most teams will suddenly start using Madden ratings as a primary tool, some organizations might consider experimenting with alternative data sources in their scouting process.
Teams are always searching for innovative ways to gain a competitive advantage. If Madden ratings—despite their flaws—can offer even a small amount of additional insight, some front offices might integrate them into their broader analytics approach.
The Future of Scouting: Traditional vs. Modern Approaches
Scouting in the NFL has evolved dramatically over the years. Traditional scouting methods, such as attending games in person and evaluating game film, remain crucial. However, modern technology has introduced new ways to assess talent:
- Player Tracking Data: GPS and wearable technology provide real-time data on speed, acceleration, and physical exertion.
- AI and Machine Learning: Algorithms analyze player movements, tendencies, and performance patterns to predict future success.
- Social Media and Public Perception: Some teams consider player branding and social media presence as factors in their evaluations.
While Madden ratings may seem out of place among these cutting-edge technologies, DeCosta’s comments highlight the NFL’s willingness to explore unconventional sources of information.
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Eric DeCosta Reveals Ravens’ Trade
The Bold Move That Changed Ravens’ Future
The Baltimore Ravens made one of the most impactful moves in franchise history when they traded up to select Lamar Jackson in the 2018 NFL Draft.
According to Ravens’ general manager Eric DeCosta, this move was kept under wraps, surprising even those within the organization.
DeCosta, who was then the assistant GM, recently shared insights into the Ravens’ draft strategy during an interview at Radio Row in New Orleans ahead of Super Bowl LIX.
He revealed that even inside the Ravens’ war room, few people knew about the plan to trade up and select Jackson.
At the time of the draft, Jackson did not have an agent. Unlike many other top prospects, he handled his own negotiations, relying on his mother, Felicia Jones, for guidance. Despite this, Baltimore brought him in for a pre-draft visit, indicating early interest in his potential.
The Ravens’ Initial First-Round Pick: Hayden Hurst
Before making the blockbuster trade, Baltimore used their first first-round selection (25th overall) to draft tight end Hayden Hurst. Hurst was seen as a safe and reliable pick, filling a crucial need at the time. However, what happened next would alter the course of the franchise.
The Ravens struck a deal with the Philadelphia Eagles to acquire the 32nd overall pick. This move was unexpected, catching even some Ravens personnel off guard. The secrecy surrounding the trade was deliberate to avoid tipping off other teams that might have had an interest in Jackson.
The Ravens saw something in Jackson that other teams overlooked. His dual-threat abilities, arm strength, and leadership qualities made him an enticing prospect. However, some teams were skeptical about his passing abilities and ability to adapt to an NFL offense. Baltimore, on the other hand, believed in his talent and work ethic.
Eric DeCosta: MVP Season and Franchise Cornerstone
Jackson silenced all doubters in his second season, winning the NFL MVP award in 2019. He led the league in passing touchdowns and set a single-season rushing record for a quarterback.
His dynamic playstyle turned the Ravens into perennial contenders, making the secret trade-up one of the most successful draft moves in history.
The Role of Eric DeCosta in Shaping the Ravens
As the successor to longtime general manager Ozzie Newsome, DeCosta has played a crucial role in assembling Baltimore’s roster. His ability to identify talent, make bold moves, and manage team finances has kept the Ravens competitive in the AFC.
Had Baltimore not executed the trade with the Eagles, another team might have selected Jackson. The New England Patriots, who had the 31st pick, were rumored to have some level of interest in the quarterback.
If Jackson had landed elsewhere, the entire trajectory of the Ravens could have been different.
Baltimore adapted its offensive scheme to fit Jackson’s unique skill set. Under offensive coordinators Greg Roman and later Todd Monken, the Ravens built a system that maximized his strengths.
The shift to a run-heavy offense complemented by deep-passing plays transformed the team’s identity.
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Challenges and Setbacks Along the Way
Despite Jackson’s success, the Ravens have faced challenges, including playoff disappointments and injuries. Jackson has dealt with criticism regarding his passing accuracy and postseason performance, but the organization remains committed to building around him.
In 2023, the Ravens signed Jackson to a five-year, $260 million contract extension, making him one of the highest-paid quarterbacks in NFL history. The deal reaffirmed Baltimore’s belief in him as their franchise quarterback.
Jackson’s presence in Baltimore has influenced how teams evaluate quarterbacks. His success has paved the way for more dual-threat quarterbacks to be embraced in the NFL. The decision to trade up and select him has had a ripple effect across the league.
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