Former fourth-round pick is making the case for a roster spot
By Matt Sidney
The Baltimore Ravens are fairly thin at the wide receiver spot. A few years ago, the team selected Tylan Wallace in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. The Ravens saw potential in one of the most electrifying wide receivers in all of college football.
At Oklahoma State, Wallace was a dominant force. He racked up over 3,400 receiving yards and 26 touchdowns over his four years with the Pokes. His physicality and ability to make contested catches made him a standout prospect. Yet, his journey in the NFL has been anything but straightforward.
Injuries and limited opportunities have hampered Wallace’s development over the past two seasons, causing him to fall behind in a crowded Ravens wide receiver room. However, as the 2024 season approaches, Wallace emerges as a player determined to seize the opportunity in front of him. With Odell Beckham Jr. no longer on the roster and the Ravens lacking depth behind Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman, Wallace is making a strong case to earn a spot on the final 53-man roster.
Former fourth-round pick Tylan Wallace is showcasing his abilities in the preseason
The departure of Odell Beckham Jr. and uncertainty surrounding Bateman’s health have left the Ravens’ receiving corps thinner than in previous years. This situation presents a golden opportunity for Wallace. In a recent preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons, Wallace showcased his talent with an impressive 31-yard reception, proving his ability to make plays. His performance did not go unnoticed, as Ravens Wire highlighted Wallace as one of the team’s standout players in that game.
Wallace’s versatility could be his ticket to making the roster. Not only has he proven to be a reliable pass-catcher, but he’s also shown value on special teams—a crucial aspect for players fighting for roster spots. During training camp and the preseason, Wallace has consistently impressed the coaching staff with his work ethic and ability to contribute in various roles.
Wallace’s journey to this point has not been easy. After a stellar college career, where he averaged 16.8 yards per catch, his transition to the NFL was slowed by injuries. In his first three seasons with the Ravens, Wallace has managed only 7 receptions for 67 yards. However, these struggles have not dampened his resolve. Instead, they’ve fueled his determination to prove he belongs in the NFL.
Coming out of college, scouts praised Wallace’s toughness, route-running, and ability to make plays in traffic. Those same traits are now on full display this preseason as he fights for a spot on the Ravens’ roster. With the team’s lack of depth at wide receiver, Wallace’s skill set could be exactly what the Ravens need to solidify their passing attack.
As the Ravens prepare for their final roster cuts, Wallace’s name is generating positive buzz. In a recent analysis, Ravens Wire noted that Wallace has consistently been one of the team’s most impressive performers throughout training camp and preseason games. His ability to step up in clutch moments, combined with his special teams contributions, make him a valuable asset for a team looking to make a deep playoff run.
The battle for a roster spot is fierce, but Wallace’s combination of talent, versatility, and determination makes it hard for the Ravens to overlook him. With the wide receiver position wide open beyond Flowers and Bateman, Wallace has a legitimate shot at carving out a significant role in the Ravens’ offense this season.
Tylan Wallace’s journey from Oklahoma State to the NFL has been challenging. With the 2024 season on the horizon, he’s showing he has what it takes to be a key contributor for the Baltimore Ravens. As final cuts loom, Wallace’s recent performances have shown he deserves a spot on this team. If he continues to impress, Wallace could be a surprise contributor for the Ravens this season—a testament to his perseverance and talent.