The Baltimore Ravens have a long history of producing talented tight ends, with players like Todd Heap, Dennis Pitta, and Owen Daniels making significant contributions to the team’s success over the years. Currently, the Ravens boast a strong tight end corps, with Mark Andrews and Nick Boyle being two of the most prominent players at the position.
Mark Andrews, in particular, has emerged as one of the top tight ends in the NFL. Since being drafted by the Ravens in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Andrews has quickly become a favorite target of quarterback Lamar Jackson. His speed, agility, and sure hands make him a formidable receiver, and he has consistently demonstrated the ability to make big plays down the field.
In 2020, Andrews caught 58 passes for 701 yards and 7 touchdowns, earning him a Pro Bowl selection and solidifying his status as one of the top tight ends in the league. His chemistry with Jackson is undeniable, and the two have formed a deadly combination that has terrorized opposing defenses.
Nick Boyle, on the other hand, is more of a traditional tight end, with a strong emphasis on blocking and run-game support. While he may not put up the same kind of receiving numbers as Andrews, Boyle is a vital component of the Ravens’ offense, providing a physical presence in the run game and helping to pave the way for running backs like J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards.
The Ravens have also invested in younger tight ends, such as Josh Oliver and Eli Wolf, who will look to develop and contribute to the team’s success in the coming years. With a strong mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the tight end position is an area of strength for the Ravens, and one that will likely continue to play a key role in the team’s offense moving forward.
One of the key factors that sets the Ravens’ tight ends apart is their ability to block. In an era where many tight ends are primarily receivers, the Ravens have made a concerted effort to develop players who can excel in both the pass and run games. This is evident in the play of Nick Boyle, who is widely regarded as one of the best blocking tight ends in the league.
The development of the Ravens’ tight ends is a testament to the team’s strong coaching and scouting. The team’s front office has done an excellent job of identifying and acquiring talent, and the coaching staff has worked tirelessly to develop and refine the skills of their players. As a result, the Ravens have been able to build a deep and talented roster, with a strong mix of veteran leadership and young talent.
Building a Strong Tight End Corps
- Identify and acquire top talent through the draft and free agency
- Develop a strong coaching and scouting infrastructure to support player development
- Create a system that leverages the unique skills of each player
- Emphasize the importance of blocking and run-game support
- Provide opportunities for young players to develop and contribute
In conclusion, the Baltimore Ravens have built a strong tight end corps, with players like Mark Andrews and Nick Boyle leading the way. By emphasizing the importance of blocking and run-game support, and developing a system that leverages the unique skills of each player, the team has been able to create a formidable offense that is capable of dominating opposing defenses.
Who is the Ravens’ current starting tight end?
+Mark Andrews is currently the Ravens’ starting tight end, with Nick Boyle serving as a key backup and contributor in the run game.
How has the Ravens’ use of tight ends evolved over the years?
+The Ravens have traditionally placed a strong emphasis on the tight end position, with players like Todd Heap and Dennis Pitta making significant contributions to the team’s success. In recent years, the team has continued to evolve and adapt, incorporating more pass-happy elements into their offense and leveraging the unique skills of players like Mark Andrews.
What is the key to the Ravens’ success at the tight end position?
+The key to the Ravens’ success at the tight end position is their ability to develop and leverage the unique skills of each player. By emphasizing the importance of blocking and run-game support, and creating a system that allows players to thrive, the team has been able to build a deep and talented roster that is capable of dominating opposing defenses.
