Baltimore Ravens: Rookie WR recoveries on track
The Baltimore Ravens picked two wide receivers in the 2019 NFL Draft, and they are each on track in their respective recoveries from injury.
The Baltimore Ravens made a big effort to get more weapons for Lamar Jackson in the 2019 draft, and the two receivers they selected are edging closer to having the opportunity to build a rapport with the second-year quarterback.
Baltimore used its first-round pick on Oklahoma’s Marquise Brown despite him having Lisfranc surgery on his foot, and followed that up by taking Miles Boykin from Notre Dame in the third round.
Brown, according to Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic, is on track to complete his rehabilitation in time to be available for training camp. Boykin, meanwhile, has been dealing with a hamstring strain and is nearing his return.
As for injured guys, 1st-round WR Marquise Brown still recovering from Lisfranc surgery. Training camp remains the hope for his return. Third-round WR Miles Boykin has been sidelined with hamstring strain. He should be getting closer to return.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) May 30, 2019
When the duo hit the field they will be under huge pressure to deliver for a Ravens passing attack that has lacked explosive playmakers and saw the departure of one this offseason as John Brown left in free agency, and they each have the potential to make a substantial impact as rookies.
Brown, despite concerns over his foot issue and his 5’9″ and 166-pound frame, fully merited being the first receiver off the board. He has the speed to take the top off opposing defenses on a consistent basis and can create separation as a route-runner. Brown does so not only with his stems at the top of the route, but also by using his stop-start quickness to effectively execute double moves.
He is also surprisingly impressive in contested catch situations given his size. However, those are more likely to be the domain of the 6’4″ and 220-pound Boykin.
Boykin became a favorite of draftniks after acing his athletic testing. He posted the top SPARQ score among all wide receivers, though such athleticism was not always on show during his time with Notre Dame.
What he did do for the Fighting Irish, however, was frequently make catches outside his frame, use his superb body control to haul in tough sideline grabs and regularly high-point the football with consummate ease.
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Getting them on the practice field together at the same time is the first step but both Brown and Boykin should receive considerable playing time as rookie given the Ravens’ lack of established options at the position. If their collegiate performances carry into the pros, they will improve Jackson’s odds of making the second-year leap necessary for Baltimore to contend.