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Baltimore Ravens Draft: Injury Concerns Mount For John Ross

By Jason Belschner

Nov 5, 2016; Berkeley, CA, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver John Ross (1) runs for a touchdown as wide receiver Dante Pettis (8) celebrates behind him during the first quarter against the California Golden Bears at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 5, 2016; Berkeley, CA, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver John Ross (1) runs for a touchdown as wide receiver Dante Pettis (8) celebrates behind him during the first quarter against the California Golden Bears at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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A history of injuries devalue a potential star.

The Baltimore Ravens need to proceed with caution when it comes to wide receiver John Ross. The Washington wide out jumped to prominence when he broke Chris Johnson’s record in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine.

https://twitter.com/nfl/status/838080788792893440?lang=en

Now, amidst continuing injury concerns, the Baltimore Ravens might be one of the teams that already scratched Washington wide receiver John Ross off their draft board. Chase Goodbread’s recent NFL.com article highlights a comment made by NFL Draft expert Mike Mayock during a media teleconference call.

"“There are some teams that have pushed him either down their boards or off their boards because of injuries. He’s had surgery on his shoulder, he’s had surgery on both knees, and he’s got a small frame. So, the durability is a big issue with him right now.”"

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The injury exposure reached such an extent that Ross’ agent, Brad Cicala released a statement regarding his client’s health. ESPN Insider Adam Schefter posted it on his social media accounts.

Cicala’s statement isn’t spin and clearly defines Ross’ injury timeline, but it understates the relevance of these injuries. While both of his knees looked healed during this past season, these chronic injuries established a troublesome pattern with two meniscus tears, an ACL surgery, and a shoulder injury. This trend continued while running the record 40, Ross hurt his hamstring and couldn’t participate in any further drills.

It truly is a shame to see this type of press in reference to such a talented player. Ebony Bird’s Chris Schisler wrote a profile on the big three receivers in which he touted Ross’ ability. These injuries clearly put his draft position in question. It seems clear that the Baltimore Ravens can’t risk the 16th overall pick on such a big injury concern. Hopefully, Corey Davis is still on the board when the Ravens make their pick.

There is no doubt that John Ross is a talented play maker when he is on the field; however, his durability creates an inescapable label. His talent level means nothing if he can’t stay on the field to perform. He already missed an entire season while in college. The size, speed, and talent all increase at the next level. How many times will he go across the middle before a 240 pound linebacker puts him back on the shelf for another year?

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Of course, there is a chance that he plays his entire NFL career without missing any games. There is a chance he is and will continue to be 100% healthy for the next decade as a star player in the league. How high is that chance? And, is it worth gambling a mid-first round pick on? No chance. Someone will take the chance in first, but it should be the Baltimore Ravens.

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