Will Hill’s Return Will Pay Dividends For Ravens

Dec 22, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; New York Giants free safety Will Hill (25) makes an interception for a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Giants beat the Lions 23-20. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Will Hill has been counting down the days until he is allowed to return from a six game suspension for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy.  And the Ravens have likely been counting down the days until he returns as well.

Safety play has been perhaps the biggest weakness on a roster that otherwise looks ready to contend, and Hill has been one of the league’s best safeties when he has been on the field.

The Ravens are able to request a roster exemption next week before activating Hill and placing him on the active roster.  The team will have to make a move to make space for Hill on the roster, which they can do by cutting a player or placing someone on injury reserve.

And it seems likely that they will, given the potential dividends he can pay on this defense.  Hill has made it a point to attend every team meeting and seems to have his head on straight following his third drug related suspension.

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Will Hill’s multiple suspensions are what caused the New York Giants to finally give up on him and release him this offseason. Talent has never been a question with Hill, who graded out as Pro Football Focus’ 3rd best safety last season, appearing in 12 games and racking up 54 tackles and 2 interceptions, allowing only a 62.0 QB rating.

Hill says his days of smoking marijuana are behind him, and he claims to have learned his lesson.  He certainly seems to be focused on resurrecting his career and so far has shown a great amount of dedication.

Perhaps his release from the Giants was truly a wake up call.  One thing is for sure, he has a huge opportunity in front of him with the Ravens.  The team is desperate for help at the safety position, and Will Hill has all the talent in the world to make a difference.