Ceiling setters are the wildcard players on an NFL roster that could drastically swing the range of outcomes.
Each player listed below could change how the Ravens perform over the course of the season. These players will also force opponents to develop specific game plans for them.
Whether it’s a breakout game, bounce back performance or just the ability to stay on the field, Ravens fans should be watching these players closely.
Marlon Humphrey
The four-game dress rehearsal he’s about to embark on as the No. 1 corner will be a key focus of the front office and coaches. With Jimmy Smith’s on- and off-field concerns, coupled with the 2019 salary cap savings a release would trigger, Eric DeCosta and company (that feels weird) will no doubt be closely watching his performance. Humphrey showed the type of promise in his rookie season that leads you to believe he will not only be up to task but has a shot to excel in the role. One development to keep an eye on is if new defensive coordinator “Wink” Martindale elects to have corners matchup directly with certain receivers. Humphrey has the speed, athleticism and length to be able to follow a variety of opponents. Such a strategy would give this defense added flexibility. If Humphrey is indeed ready to take another step in year two, the trio of Humphrey, Smith and Tavon Young is as good as there is in the NFL.
Willie Snead
You know what’s tougher than depending on a rookie tight end? Depending on two. Multiple tight end sets may prove to be a hinderance to the overall effectiveness of the passing game, especially early on with Hayden Hurst out and Mark Andrews still getting up to speed and sitting fourth on the depth chart.
That’s where Snead comes into play. The Ravens spent 43% percent of their snaps last season in three wide receiver sets — a number I expect them to at the very least match this season. However, if 2015-2016 Willie Snead shows up that number could grow. The Ravens have long coveted a sure handed, reliable chain mover in the slot … all attributes that fit Snead before a suspension and hamstring injury ruined his 2017 season. His 2018 resurgence could make 3rd and 7 actually fun for a change.
Tim Williams
Of all the young edge talent the Ravens have, Williams is the most naturally gifted pass rusher of the group. He’s got a rocket first step and a nuanced pass rushing arsenal. Our Ken Mckusick charted him with 20 preseason pressure events, which is absolutely insane. He’s also bulked up and played very stout and physical run defense. I’ve hinted at it the last couple years but this may finally be the year that the Ravens have enough young, athletic pass rushers to truly close out games. The defensive scheme will certainly help, but at the end of the day, you need to be able to have four guys put their hand in the dirt and generate pressure in key spots. Williams has a chance to be a lights out closer this season.
Kenny Young
Kenny Young was considered a reach where the Ravens selected him in April. I know it’s early but he looks like a player they maybe didn’t select high enough. Blitzing and pass coverage ability at linebacker has long been a sore spot. but in the preseason, Young flashed plenty of both. Thought to be more of a nickel linebacker prospect, he’s showed surprising physicality to go with his impressive closing speed and fluidity. His talent should allow for some intriguing possibilities … ones I thought would only come in the team’s dime defense.
Brent Urban
Before a Lisfranc injury cost him majority of last season, Urban was poised to lead the Ravens defensive line in snaps and earn and hefty new contract. He’s a stout performer in the run game and is also a disruptive pocket collapsar, who can use his length to bat balls down at the line of scrimmage. The thought of Urban, Willie Henry and Za’Darius Smith as go to interior rushers with Terrell Suggs, Matt Judon and Tim Williams as go to edge rushers makes me giddy.
Fingers crossed.
