Baltimore Ravens: Expectations for rookies in the 2020 season
Justin Madubuike, DL, Texas A&M
Expectation: Create pressure as a rotational rusher
The Baltimore Ravens lost Michael Pierce to free agency, but they traded for Calais Campbell to beef up their front seven. The attention to the front seven continued in the 2020 NFL Draft with the selection of Justin Madubuike in the third round. Madubuike lined up from nose tackle to three-technique on the Texas A&M line, and that versatility will be important for a Ravens defense that likes to create pressure in a variety of ways.
If Madubuike can get on the field for third downs and create pressure for Baltimore, year one will have been a success.
Devin Duvernay, WR, Texas
Expectation: Win the WR3 job
Baltimore leaned heavily on three tight end sets in 2019, but things might change a little with Hayden Hurst off to Atlanta. This opens the door for more 11 personnel if the Ravens want to go more balanced in 2020.
The Ravens don’t run a lot in 11 personnel (20th in the NFL with 598 snaps), but things could change with the addition of Devin Duvernay. Duvernay excelled in the slot at Texas and should be able to secure the WR3 job for 2020. His great hands and YAC ability could give him a chance to contribute in year one.
Malik Harrison, LB, Ohio State
Expectation: Start alongside Patrick Queen by mid-season
After losing C.J. Mosley in the 2019 offseason, the Ravens doubled down at linebacker in the 2020 NFL Draft, selecting Malik Harrison late on day two. Harrison is good at deconstructing blocks in the run game and, despite limited athleticism, has great instincts in coverage. Harrison may not start at the beginning of 2020 but should find his way alongside Patrick Queen by the middle of the season.
Tyre Phillips, OL, Mississippi State
Expectation: Grow and provide depth year one
The Baltimore Ravens lost Marshal Yanda to retirement, leaving a big hole to fill along the offensive line. While Tyre Phillips might not have a chance to push for a starting job in camp, it’s important for him to develop in his first season.