2018 Baltimore Ravens: 5 questions for the backfield

Today we’re looking at the Ravens backfield and asking five questions. It’s all about running backs and quarterbacks (with some fullback talk added for good measure). Let’s dive into the analysis of the Ravens backfield:

5. Is Kenneth Dixon the real deal?

The Baltimore Ravens drafted Kenneth Dixon in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, but they expected him to be a complete steal. The hype train has been in full force for Dixon who has barely played in the NFL. The sample size with Dixon is small. He has played in only 12 games and has less than 100 career carries. The best way to put it is that he has shown flashes, but hasn’t gotten to steal the show yet. There have been times where Dixon looks like the most explosive running back out there. His flashes are lightning bolts. Now the Ravens must figure out if he can sustain this level of electricity.

If Dixon is the real deal, it’s a good thing. It would mean that the Ravens would have three quality running backs. Alex Collins is a star in the making. Javorius Allen is a solid number two. Dixon’s ceiling is that of an absolute superstar. In a perfect situation, Collin and Dixon could be like Batman and Robin. Both running backs can take turns being the hero of the Ravens backfield. This would put Allen in the Danny Woodhead role, which would be fitting because he always did better as a receiving running back than a between the tackles runner.

With Dixon it’s always been about potential:

Dixon is coming off a year removed from football. When training camp starts he may be fresh, but once they start hitting it’s a whole new ball game. Dixon may take some time to be fully into the swing of things. By the end of the season, Harbaugh and company should know if Dixon is going to become the diamond in the rough they envisioned.