Baltimore Ravens Stock Report Week 5
By Brett Foote
Sep 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Kelvin Benjamin (13) scores a touchdown in front of Baltimore Ravens safety Darian Stewart (24) at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports
Stock up: Darian Stewart
We have been pretty hard on Darian Stewart this season, but it’s for good reason. He and Matt Elam have formed one of the worst safety duos in the NFL this season for a team that normally gets good performance out of the position. Stewart appeared to be a big free agent dud through four games this season, especially in coverage.
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But we give credit where credit is due, and Darian Stewart deserves it for a bounce back performance against the Colts. Stewart gave up only 2 receptions on 4 targets Sunday for 49 yards, registering his first positive grade from Pro Football Focus of the season. Stewart finished just slightly behind Jimmy Smith for the best rating in coverage (1.4 vs. 1.3).
Stewart also got credit for a deflected pass. It was an encouraging turnaround for both he and Matt Elam, who had his best performance since week one (albeit still not a great one). The two are likely feeling the pressure of the imminent return of Will Hill from suspension, as well as the improved play of rookie Terrence Brooks.