Tight Ends/Fullback:
Mark Andrews– 12 receptions, 166 receiving yards, four receiving touchdowns
Nick Boyle– five receptions, 25 receiving yards, one receiving touchdowns
Patrick Ricard– two receptions, 10 receiving yards, one receiving touchdowns, one carry, -1 rushing yards, one fumble
Last season the Ravens had the most dynamic tight end trio in the NFL. With the trade of Hayden Hurst, the Ravens lost a big part of that trio. In an effort to replace him the Ravens have upped Mark Andrews’ snap count, especially in running situations, and have been using fullback Pat Ricard as an additional tight end. This trio has done ok but has not been as solid and reliable as the group was last season for Jackson.
As mentioned with the wide receivers, Andrews has had two great games with two touchdowns and two more where he was very silent. Either way, his impact has been highly touchdown reliant as he’s only catching three passes a game. Boyle, known as a blocker has doubled his career touchdown output this season already. That might be all you need to know. I projected him to increase his pass-catching ability this season, but so far that hasn’t been the case.
Ricard and Boyle, both are fantastic blockers. Between the two of them, they are over 500 pounds and use their size and quick feet well. Ricard had a big fumble early in the season but has played well since. These guys have all of the talent in the world, but with the production of the wide receivers, they will need to increase what they are doing. In general, the passing game hasn’t been up to par this season.
Looking forward, these guys play a huge role in the offense, regardless of passing game production. With two tight ends on the practice squad, it may become time to add another face to the group on game days. For now, they fill the offenses needs and can block but having just two tight ends might not be sufficient. If not, the offense may need to find new ways to incorporate them into the offense differently.
Grade: C