Baltimore Ravens: 3 Position Battles Too Close To Call

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Jul 31, 2016; Owings Mills, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens running back Justin Forsett (29) and the running backs run across the field during the morning session of training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

Running Back

With the team cutting Trent Richardson yesterday, the competition at running back got a bit clearer, but with limited roster space somebody will be the odd man out. Justin Forsett, Javorius “Buck” Allen, Terrance West, Lorenzo Taliaferro and the rookie Kenneth Dixon are all vying for likely three or four spots.

Justin Forsett is the most proven of the bunch, and will be the starter if he can stay healthy. He is a long-time veteran who doesn’t have the wear and tear of many other running backs at 30 years old. Not to mention he was a Pro-Bowler back in 2014. He also has the best vision out of all the running backs, an extremely valuable trait in the zone-blocking scheme the Ravens run.

Buck Allen is the perhaps the most intriguing player out of this bunch, as he has great potential but fumbled often last season, much to the ire of John Harbaugh. His skill set is similar to Jets’ running back Matt Forte, as he can be just as effective as a receiver compared to a runner.

Allen wasn’t very efficient last season, but the offensive line not playing well and losing Joe Flacco were big reasons why. Expect him to battle for the second running back spot to spell Justin Forsett this season.

Terrance West was a mid-season addition whom the Ravens reportedly coveted in the 2014 draft. He’s a local kid who grew up in Baltimore and broke records at Towson. The Browns took him in the third round right before the Ravens had their pick, but he only lasted a year there before being traded to the Titans, who cut him. He apparently had some issues with motivation and poor practice habits.

West seems to have been rejuvenated both his mind and body this offseason. He doesn’t just look like he wants to make the roster, he wants to become the starter Week one. West looks shredded, losing about 15 lbs this offseason, and has gained back the speed and elusiveness that made him a wonder to watch at Towson. He’s recently become a father and has focused on helping the community.

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In practices, West looks the part of a starting running back. While his pass protection could use some work, he looks quick and decisive running the ball. He could be a dark horse candidate to start at some point this season, he looks really good so far.

Lorenzo Taliaferro is in a difficult predicament right now. He’s got a lot of ability and is the only true short-yardage back on the roster right now, but he’s been injured for most of his career. He’s had foot injuries that have taken him out of action, and he’s still dealing with it, as he’s currently on the PUP list. It’s going to be a steep climb for him to make the roster, but he’s an extremely talented player. I predict he will most likely be among the last cuts, and may be added to the practice squad or sign with another team.

Kenneth Dixon is a home-run threat every time he touches the ball, I can’t recall a player of this caliber being available in the fourth round in a long time. He’s got decent long speed, but his real strength is being able to create yardage out of plays that have no business even being positive gains. He’s got a sick jump cut to avoid tacklers and has great instincts.

Dixon is a fantastic receiver, and could end up playing a large role for this team within the next few seasons. He’s a perfect fit for Marc Trestman’s offense. Expect him to be the third or fourth running back this season, but an eventual starter down the line.

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