Ravens: Top 4 players to watch against the Minnesota Vikings
By Rémy Cabache
2. Nick Boyle, TE, Ravens
Nick Boyle has long been one of the most underappreciated players in the NFL. Not so much among Ravens’ faithful, but league-wide he is an afterthought in the Ravens’ high-powered offenses of recent years.
Week 9 could finally see his return.
Boyle has been a huge asset in Baltimore’s rushing game as one of the best blocking tight ends in the NFL. In 2019, he, Mark Andrews, and Hayden Hurst formed a key ingredient to Baltimore’s success.
However, the Ravens failed to recreate their three tight end success in 2020, despite the value Boyle and Andrews provided, and the run game has not been quite as dominant since.
The run game is in dire need of a boost, and Boyle will be exactly that. What’s more, his addition to the tight end room opens the door for more of the 2019 three tight end packages.
If Boyle can play, the Ravens will be able to line up with Mark Andrews, Josh Oliver, and Nick Boyle, giving the defense the unfavorable task of dealing with the run threat or significant pass threat the trio pose.
Facing a team who has allowed 4.6 yards per carry (tied for fifth-most), the 18th most yards on the eight fewest carries, Boyle could be an immense addition to the lineup.