Slot receiver:
Contenders: Willie Snead vs. Devin Duvernay vs. James Proche
Willie Snead will be starting one way or another. The question as to where that will be remains to be seen.
Snead could thrive in the slot, where he posted a 62/651/1 stat line in 2018 for the Baltimore Ravens. Snead primarily played on the outside in 2019, posting a 31/339/5 stat line. A return to the slot could bring Snead’s numbers back up and more importantly be more effective for this offense. With the hope that Miles Boykin takes a step forward this season after an OK rookie year outside, Snead would be a great fit in the slot.
Two rookies will also compete for the starting slot position. Third-round pick Devin Duvernay should be the favorite here, as he’s a perfectly built slot receiver (5’11” 210-lbs.) with elite speed (4.39 40-yard dash) and hands to match. Duvernay could be the runaway favorite for the starting slot gig if Baltimore opts to keep Snead out wide.
Sixth-round pick James Proche makes our list again here, this time as a player in contention for slot duties. Proche has a good build for the slot receiver spot as well at 6’0″ 193-lbs. and vice-grip hands. If Proche were to have a significant role in the offense, it would definitely be in the slot.