It is early in the 2025 NFL season, but the Baltimore Ravens’ Week 2 matchup with the Cleveland Browns may already be a must-win game. Not only can they get the early upper hand on a divisional rival, but they are also looking to get back on track after a disastrous Week 1 loss.
While it seems like an easy game for the Ravens to win, as they are heavy favorites, you can never overlook a divisional opponent, especially in the AFC North. AFC North rivalry games are usually close. Even after a horrendous 2024 in Cleveland, they still managed to get the upper hand over Baltimore once last year. They also opened 2025 in a competitive way, dropping a close one to the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 1.
The Browns are clearly reloading their roster, and several young, talented players are looking to find their way in the league. Still, various players could give the Ravens problems throughout Sunday’s game. Here are three sneaky Browns players the Ravens cannot afford to overlook in Week 2.
3 sneaky Browns playmakers Ravens can't afford to overlook in Week 2
Dylan Sampson
Coming out of Tennessee, Dylan Sampson was an electrifying playmaker who won the SEC Offensive Player of the Year in 2024. He proved to be one of the best running backs in college football, rushing for 1,491 yards and 22 touchdowns. He was drafted in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and in his professional debut, he quickly showcased what makes him so special.
Sampson did not find much success on the ground, toting the rock 12 times for just 29 yards, but he showcased playmaking abilities as a pass catcher. Quarterback Joe Flacco leaned on the rookie running back, as Sampson caught eight passes for 64 yards. He registered a 70.8 overall grade and a 92.4 receiving grade for the performance, per Pro Football Focus (PFF).
Bills’ running back James Cook took a pass for 51 yards against Baltimore in Week 1. If Sampson is used similarly, he could gash the Ravens’ defense for some big gains.
Isaiah McGuire
Defensive end Isaiah McGuire is entering his third NFL season, and it looks like 2025 could be his breakout year. After being selected in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, McGuire only accumulated 3.5 sacks through his first two seasons. In Cleveland’s season opener, he posted a strong performance.
McGuire was a thorn in Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s side all day long in Week 1. He finished his outing with one sack, three hurries, and four stops. He was an all-around player, making plays as a pass rusher and run defender, and earned an 88.2 PFF grade, good for the eighth-best edge defender in the NFL.
The Ravens could have some issues on the offensive line. Tackle Roger Rosengarten and guards Andrew Vorhees and Daniel Faalele had their hands full in Week 1. With Myles Garrett demanding a ton of attention, McGuire could have a sneaky dominant game if Baltimore is not prepared.
Harold Fannin Jr.
Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. was one of the best players at the collegiate level in 2024. He posted eye-popping numbers at Bowling Green with 117 receptions, 1,555 yards, and 10 touchdowns. That impressive showing was enough to be selected in the third round of the 2024NFL Draft, and he is already taking off.
Fannin was a major focus in Cleveland’s Week 1 offense. He caught seven passes for 63 yards and had a long of 22 yards. He also moved the chains three times. There is a youth movement kicking off on the Browns’ offense, and it is clear Fannin will be a key part of that.
Pro Bowl tight end David Njoku tends to find a ton of success against Baltimore’s defense, and even if they can shut him down, they will have to keep Fannin in check, as well.
The Ravens should have the upper hand in this matchup, but they will have to watch out for these three playmakers if they want to capture their first win of the season.