Will Jeremy Butler Win The Fifth Receiver Spot?

Sep 7, 2013; Boise, ID, USA; Tennessee Martin Skyhawks wide receiver Jeremy Butler (3) on an end around during the second half against the Boise State Broncos at Bronco Stadium. Boise State defeated Tennessee Martin 63-14. Mandatory Credit: Brian Losness-USA TODAY Sports

Haven’t heard of Jeremy Butler?  We can’t blame you.  After all, Butler starred for the Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks, not exactly a powerhouse college football program. But you should learn the name, because Butler is our favorite small school wide receiver this year, and he has a legitimate shot at earning a roster spot with the Ravens.

Butler has good size at 6’2″ and 224 pounds, spot on for a possession receiver.  He also has the good hands of one, and adequate speed with a 40 time of 4.61.  He ran pro-style routes in college and he looks up to Anquan Boldin.  He has been forced to work hard to make a name for himself, and so far he has succeeded in doing just that.

Butler turned heads at Tennessee-Martin, setting school records last year with a gaudy 90 catches for 1,203 yards and 10 touchdowns.  He even racked up 118 yards against Boise State last season, leading the Skyhawks to a 64-14 rout.

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Reports out of camp so far have been good as well.  After watching last year’s undrafted star Marlon Brown drop too many passes, Butler garnered praise for consistently making catches all over the field.  He even got snaps with the first and second team.

It certainly isn’t easy for any UDFA to make any team, and the odds are obviously stacked against Butler.  The Ravens have four receiver spots already locked up with Torrey Smith, Steve Smith, Marlon Brown, and Jacoby Jones.  They may only keep five on the roster, leaving the last spot up for grabs between Butler, Mike Willie, Delonte Thompson, LaQuan Williams, and Michael Campanaro.

Butler may have an uphill battle for a roster spot, but he has done his part so far to earn it.  If he continues to do so through camp and the preseason, he could very well be the next Marlon Brown.

Who do you think will win the fifth receiver spot for the Ravens?