Baltimore Ravens: Picking surprise stat-leaders for 2019
Non-passing touchdowns: Hayden Hurst
From forgettable rookie season to breakout sophomore year? Don’t call it a comeback!
The selection of Hayden Hurst in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft was puzzling to many, especially Ravens Flock. It turned out to be a pretty bad move considering his lack of impact, being out-done by a later draft pick at his position, and seeing other round one selections Baltimore could’ve taken instead have amazing rookie years.
Thankfully, 2019 is a clean slate for Hurst. 2018 is over-and-done with, and now many are hoping he can rebound nicely this season. Count me in as a believer of this thought.
Related Story. Baltimore Ravens: Hayden Hurst a legitimate X-Factor for 2019. light
Looking at the Baltimore Ravens offensive depth chart, no one screams “red-zone” threat to me. Well, no one except tight end Hayden Hurst. The towering 6’4″ man added 20-lbs. of muscle this off-season in an attempt to bulk up and separate himself from his teammates. When the Ravens are down inside the 20-yard line and are looking for someone to throw the ball up to, it’s hard to look past a man as massive as Hurst.
A large part of Hayden Hurst’s struggles as a rookie were due to injury, so for him to do anything he first needs to prove he’s 100%. If he is, there’s not too much in his way of being the go-to guy in the end-zone. Lamar Jackson needs a big-body to favor and Hurst matches that profile. Upwards of seven-or-more touchdowns seems legit, but double-digit touchdowns could perhaps be his ceiling.