Baltimore Ravens running back situation is a question mark

The Ravens backfield is a question mark going into the offseason despite a good rushing attack in 2018.

The Baltimore Ravens have an interesting dilemma in the backfield. They have three running backs that they could easily bring back, that were productive in 2018. It just happens that all three players come with their own concerns.

Gus Edwards seemed like a flashback to the Jamal Lewis days. Edwards was a downhill runner for the Ravens who added an element of power to the run game. Edwards was thrown into the action at the same time as Lamar Jackson. Edwards had over 700 yards and averaged 5.2 yards per carry. Is this undrafted free agent a feature back or just the next Alex Collins?

Then there is Kenneth Dixon. Dixon has dealt with his share of injuries and has been suspended multiple times for the NFL’s substance abuse policy. The story for Dixon hasn’t changed. When he’s on the field he makes plays. He is the most explosive running back on the roster.

Ty Montgomery is a nice change of pace back that can help in the passing game. That being said, the Green Bay Packers were very wiling to trade Montgomery for almost nothing. Alex Collins and Buck Allen could also in the picture. Collins finished the season on injured reserve but he had worked himself out of the rotation by a lack of results. It’s hard to count on Collins moving forward and he doesn’t seem to be a fit with Greg Roman’s rushing attack.

It could be very tempting for the Ravens to go into next year with a trio of Edwards, Dixon and Montgomery. The purple and black finished the regular season with the second ranked ground game. They’ve seen a sneak preview and it is not a bad look. Sticking with the running backs they have would allow them to focus on more areas of need.

The Ravens are left with a problem. There is no promise that the running backs can replicate their 2018 success. With Lamar Jackson at quarterback, the running game is incredibly important. The Ravens have to get more from the passing game, however running the football is the foundation of the offense.

Free agency could be tempting for the Ravens here. Le’Veon Bell and Mark Ingram are both set to become free agents. While Bell may not be the best system fit, the Ravens know his value from playing against him. My co-expert Richard Bradshaw would be excited to see Mark Ingram come to town. The NFL Draft is another option for the Ravens running back room. Benny Snell Jr., a powerful back out of Kentucky seems like a perfect fit in Baltimore.

The Ravens running back situation is not set in stone. They have capable players, but they could certainly use an upgrade. At the very least they need an insurance policy on running backs that all have concerns attached to them. The Ravens need a strong running game with Jackson under center. Whatever they do they have to get it right.