3 Ravens Players Who Need To Step Up
By Brett Foote
Jun 19, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens offensive guard Marshall Yanda (73) is blocked by offensive lineman Ryan Jensen (77) during minicamp at the Under Armour Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Ryan Jensen
Jensen went from competing with Rick Wagner at right tackle to being shifted back to guard, seemingly for good. If his performance against the 49ers is any indication, he might need to try out another position. Jensen not only gave up a sack on Tyrod Taylor, but he literally got tossed aside like a rag doll by Niners defensive tackle Tank Carradine. The backup offensive line of the Ravens had a pretty horrible night, to be fair, but Jensen didn’t look ready to play at all.
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Jensen is likely not on the roster bubble, but it wouldn’t shock us if he got cut or stashed on the practice squad if he continues his poor play. The fact that he has already been moved out of a position of need is not a good sign. And if he keeps letting guys get to the quarterback, it makes a precarious situation even worse.
Aug 7, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens tight end Owen Daniels (81) runs with the ball in the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Owen Daniels
Daniels was brought over as a former Gary Kubiak disciple and one of the most successful pass catching tight ends in recent NFL history. Daniels was a prolific pass catcher as the number 2 option behind wide receiver Andre Johnson for several years in Houston under Kubiak. His familiarity with the offense should theoretically give him a huge leg up and he was widely expected to be a decent contributor to the Raven’s offense.
Problem is, he looked like he was running in quick sand against the 49ers. 32 is pretty old for a tight end, especially one who has already had his speed sapped by injuries over the last few seasons. His inability to get separation off the line of scrimmage is no shock, as we saw the same thing in training camp. If Daniels can’t find the fountain of youth soon, the Ravens may end up using Crockett Gilmore more than expected, or run more three wide sets, especially since they have a lot of talent at wide receiver.
Who do you think needs to step up for the Ravens?