4 young Ravens players whose roster spots are in jeopardy
By Justin Fried
3. Josh Oliver, TE, Ravens
When the Ravens traded a conditional seventh-round pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars in exchange for Josh Oliver back in March, they hoped they were landing a young player who could provide adequate depth in their tight end room.
A former third-round pick, Oliver had seen his career stunted by injuries as he had played in just four career games in Jacksonville.
The hope was that Oliver could realize some of his potential and give the Ravens additional depth behind Mark Andrews, especially with Nick Boyle still recovering from offseason surgery.
Unfortunately, although Oliver made the team following a strong showing in training camp, he was pretty much a nonfactor as the season went on.
The 24-year-old played in 14 games catching just nine passes for 66 yards. He played just 15 percent of offensive snaps, even with Boyle sideline for half the year.
The Ravens are a team that loves to have as much tight end depth as possible, and given Boyle’s injury concerns, they’re likely to add to the position in the offseason.
Oliver, who failed to impress in his opportunities in 2021, could find himself on the outside looking in. In a deep tight end class, the Ravens could look to add one on Day 3 of the draft.
Oliver might be back to compete for a roster spot this summer, but don’t be surprised if the Ravens find his eventual replacement in the offseason.