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2015 Baltimore Ravens OTAs: Five Things to Watch For

By Brett Foote

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Nov 8, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers tight end Maxx Williams (88) runs in for a touchdown after making a catch in the second half against the Iowa Hawkeyes at TCF Bank Stadium. The Gophers won 51-14. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Who will seize the starting tight end job?

We’re probably not going to get any concrete answers regarding Dennis Pitta’s future until later in the summer or even fall, but we will find out just how ready second round pick Maxx Williams is to seize his big opportunity.  Loaded with upside as a pass catcher, Williams will be competing with Crockett Gillmore for snaps.

Whoever wins this battle will likely see lots of targets on offense, as we all know Joe Flacco loves his tight ends.  Williams has more talent and upside than Gillmore, and a loftier draft status coming into OTAs. The Ravens are obviously going to give him the benefit of the doubt, but that doesn’t mean that Gillmore won’t put up a fight.

A lot hinges on how much Gillmore, last year’s third round pick, develops.  He was somewhat a disappointment last season as he failed to carve out much of a role despite only having a slow and aging Owen Daniels ahead of him on the depth chart.  It’s also likely a big part of the reason the Ravens spent a second rounder on Williams.

Not only that, but Gillmore also has to worry about fifth rounder Nick Boyle stealing snaps.  Boyle was reportedly very impressive in rookie minicamp.  Despite possessing limited pass catching ability, Boyle is proven as a blocker.

When the dust settles, expect Maxx Williams to be the starter, with Gillmore also seeing the field as the Ravens employ two tight end sets.  Boyle figures to slot in at #3. With any luck, all will flash this offseason and give the Ravens a young, dynamic presence at tight end for years to come.

Next: What running back will seize the number two spot?

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