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Darren Waller presents Ravens with tremendous upside

By Brett Foote

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Aug 13, 2015; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Darren Waller (12) carries the ball against the New Orleans Saints during the second quarter in a preseason NFL football game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-USA TODAY Sports

Two Ravens who have consistently received praise for their play this offseason are sixth round draft choice Darren Waller and the returning Rashaan Melvin.  Both have exceeded the expectations most everyone had for them as we sit in the midway point of the NFL preseason.

Waller, in particular, represents something the Ravens have always wanted but haven’t really ever had – a big wide receiver that simply towers over everyone else, but also has good measurables and speed. Guys that go 6’6″ and 240 pounds and can also run don’t grow on trees.

The Ravens didn’t expect Waller to take to the pro game too quickly after he rarely touched the ball at Georgia Tech.  In fact, he wasn’t even really looked at as a potential NFL prospect until later in his career, and the Ravens used a late round pick on him solely based on potential.

The upside here is massive if Waller can continue to learn quickly.  This is a guy that has the physical size, tools, and speed of guys like Calvin Johnson and Deymarius Thomas (both of whom also came from Georgia Tech).  With names like that floating around in comparison, it’s not a surprise that Waller has the Ravens excited.

Here’s all the hottest Ravens news and notes floating around the web today.

The possibility of rookie wide receiver Darren Waller intrigues Ravens – Childs Walker, The Baltimore Sun

Injury doesn’t dampen enthusiasm for Rashaan Melvin’s preseason – Jon Meoli, The Baltimore Sun

Banged up Ravens offensive line won’t affect Joe Flacco’s playing time – Jamison Hensley, ESPN

Terrell Suggs embraces the villain role – Ryan Mink, BaltimoreRavens.com

Ravens still have speed at receiver with Breshad Perriman out – Jon Meoli, The Baltimore Sun

Next: Ravens vs. Redskins where to watch, preview, prediction

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