OTL: Baltimore Still Has A Spot For Backs

Though opinions can differ slightly from person to person, the order of preference seems to be quarterback, offensive lineman, receiver, pass rusher, cornerback, etc., and running backs get trapped somewhere between the towel-folder and the holder.

How times have evolved.

However, it is most definitely not the case in Baltimore, where running backs are important (except for, say, conference championship games).
This summer, the Ravens made a significant addition to their roster when they signed Derrick Henry, who caused eclipses. The star back stated that Baltimore had always been a destination for him.

During an appearance on the Jim Rome Show, Henry stated, “For the record, Baltimore was always my No. 1 option” (audio link). “I’ve always wanted to go there. And as I previously mentioned, I was aware that trade conversations [during the season] were almost certain to occur, but I wasn’t sure if they still felt that way once free agency began until I spoke with my agent to find out the truth.

Though it’s obvious that Henry has room at the moment, the team also includes multifaceted Justice Hill and talented young back Keaton Mitchell, who is recuperating from a serious knee injury. Since the contracts of J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards expired this offseason, they are still searching for a new back. While Edwards joined the Chargers, Dobbins remains unsigned.

Speaking of Dobbins, the former second-round selection who has been plagued by injuries in Baltimore at every turn, his stat line from when the team first drafted him four years ago is likely what Ravens supporters anticipated: two hundred and thirty-three carries for 1,347 yards (averaging 5.8 yards per carry) and twelve touchdowns.

The issue is that he didn’t simply have one fantastic All-Pro season; that is what he earned across four seasons.
It’s unclear if Dobbins will rejoin the Ravens, but if he signs a one-year deal to support Henry, it may give the rusher an explosive complement and demonstrate to other teams that he still has what it takes to play in the NFL before he may decide to pursue a bigger salary in the off-season.

Though much of my thinking says it’s time to cut bait—ffor both the Ravens and Dobbins—II would love to see him return for a single season to show off his ability to stay healthy and excel if given the chance.

Although the Ravens absolutely need a backup back, why not select a mid-round pick to fill that job for a few seasons at a reasonable cost? In an ideal world, Henry gives the Ravens two successful seasons before passing the torch to Mitchell or another player who is destined to be the team’s leader.

After the draft, when teams have a clearer grasp of what they have on their rosters and can start filling up the gaps with veterans eager to make a splash, Dobbins will likely have more opportunities and activity on his phone.

Perhaps Baltimore will turn out to be that. However, I believe he will have greater opportunities elsewhere.

Although he wasn’t totally confident in the strategy, John Harbaugh expressed his happiness that the NFL was attempting to include kick returns in the game this season. Nevertheless, the Ravens signed a former All-Pro returner to take that position in response.
“With the New Orleans Saints in 2019, Brady, 26, was an All-Pro returner who led the league in punt return yards and scored a return touchdown,” Ryan Mink wrote. Over his five-year career, he has averaged 10.4 yards per punt return and 25.2 yards per kick return.

The signing is appealing to me. I don’t think Harty will cost much, but if he can “steal” field possession a few times this season, he will be well worth it. In a restricted capacity, he can also add some flash and wiggle to the receiving area.

Good teams make these kinds of low-key additions to improve their team’s chances of winning.

Morning brew: Which #Ravens are poised for a break out in 2024?

My four candidates:

– Travis Jones
– Trenton Simpson
– Ben Cleveland
– Ar’Darius Washington

My reasons why for @RussellStReport #RavensFlock https://t.co/ceXll5iQLj

— Dev Panchwagh (@devpanchwagh) April 11, 2024