Deciding on the 53-man roster in 2018 is going to be one of Ozzie Newsome’s toughest decisions yet, as there is substantial depth in every position group.
Whether it’s potential breakout stars or having draft capital attached to a player, deciding who to keep and who to let go for the 2018 Baltimore Ravens’ roster seems to be one of the hardest decisions in recent memory. With quality depth at almost every position group, here are the five roster bubble players who need to stick around for the Ravens this year:
Robert Griffin III:
This one is simple: The Ravens need to keep three quarterbacks.
Lamar Jackson has shown growth and development, but still needs improvement. He played better against the Miami Dolphins, including faster processing in his decision making, but that in no way, shape, or form means he is ready to serve as Flacco’s primary backup. Robert Griffin III has played solid all preseason, and has been exactly what you would want to see in a backup quarterback. Keeping RGIII around this year is simple: He offers consistency and an ability to continue mentoring Jackson.
If Flacco were to get hurt and was forced to miss a game or two, the Ravens could no doubt survive with RGIII under center. He’s a highly mobile QB who won’t force high-risk throws and will opt to moving the chains instead of taking the deep shot. Along with his on-the-field play, Griffin III can continue to satisfy demands as a mentor to Jackson off-the-field. This will help Jackson to learn what to do, what not to do, how to carry yourself, and most importantly what to do to stay healthy when being a mobile quarterback.
With all the positives that RGIII can bring to Baltimore, I think there’s no doubt that he needs to stick around.