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4. Hayden Hurst
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Baltimore craved a first round pick who could catch the ball and Ozzie Newsome delivered. Hayden Hurst is the toughest tight end to come to Baltimore since Todd Heap. He was a first round pick, and he is going to be expected to play right away. It may be easy to say that Hurst doesn’t have anything to gain. His roster spot is promised and the Ravens need him to be the guy. Here’s the thing though, Hurst has a chance to prove something tonight.
Nick Boyle isn’t overly impressive as a receiving tight end. Maxx Williams isn’t overly impressive at anything. Mark Andrews is a rookie with similar expectations and Vince Mayle is a special teams guy who the Ravens trust. Darren Waller is about to enter the picture as well. Hurst has a chance to build off his strong performance in the Hall of Fame Game. If he makes a few grabs and a few plays, he will show the Ravens that he is the top tight end without a doubt.
Sometimes living up to high expectations is just as important as proving low expectations wrong. Hurst can elevate himself into a starting job and can take some pressure off himself. He can also make sure he goes into the regular season as a fan favorite. Baltimore needed a player like Hurst to embrace. Number 81 jerseys are going to be as popular as number 86 jerseys soon.