Realistic Expectations For Mike Wallace
Mike Wallace: What He Gives The Ravens
One of the biggest things the Baltimore Ravens did this offseason was signing Mike Wallace. Wallace is a veteran wide receiver with plenty of speed. He gives the Ravens an extra element to their offense. What can the Ravens expect from Wallace in 2016?
More from Ebony Bird
- Will Baltimore Ravens be rewarded for risky Lamar Jackson decision?
- The Baltimore Ravens Big Gamble
- Ravens Super Bowl odds present fascinating insight on Lamar Jackson’s future
- Should Baltimore Ravens be interested in this recently released WR
- Do the Baltimore Ravens have serious interest in this free agent wide out?
Wallace is coming off the worst statistical season of his career. Wallace grabbed 39 passes for 473 yards and two touchdowns last season, with the Minnesota Vikings. We knew Wallace wasn’t the star he was in Pittsburgh, but this was a disappointing drop of production.
Before the 2015 season, he was good for 60 receptions or more per season. Wallace had five straight seasons with at least 60 receptions. While he matched his first year’s reception total last season; Wallace had 283 less yards and four less touchdowns than he did as a rookie.
Wallace is looking for a bounce back season. The Ravens are looking for someone who can give them a deep passing threat. The Ravens don’t need him to be the star he was with the Steelers. They certainly didn’t pay him to put up that kind of production. Wallace got a low-risk two year contract.
The teams that Wallace played for after the Steelers, didn’t have what he needed. He needs an offensive system and a quarterback that will take advantage of his speed down the field. The Ravens are desperate to add a deep passing attack to their offense. Joe Flacco is desperate for a weapon, worthy of his cannon arm. Wallace and Flacco are compatible players.
Wallace will probably catch 35-40 passes. Most of his work will be attacking down the field. 35 receptions for 650 yards and four touchdowns is a realistic projection for Wallace.
Next: Ravens Have Plenty Of Running Backs
The Ravens won’t lean on Wallace. Instead they will let him do what he does best. The Ravens signed Wallace because of his speed. Wallace adds another dimension to the offense. His speed will have defenses playing the Ravens differently. Basically, his impact is going to be greater than his numbers may suggest.