2023-12-26 03:26:00
From a roster perspective, veteran running back Melvin Gordon is replacing Keaton Mitchell. Ravens coach John Harbaugh confirmed that about 45 minutes after Baltimore’s 23-7 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday night, and the team made it official Tuesday afternoon. Mitchell was placed on injured reserve after he tore his ACL against the Jaguars.
It seems likely, however, that it is Justice Hill who absorbs Mitchell’s role. Mitchell is one of the fastest players in the league. His speed and explosiveness, which helped the rookie average 8.4 yards per carry, will be nearly impossible for Baltimore to replace.
Hill doesn’t have Mitchell’s breakaway speed, but he can still get outside and run past defenders. He can still pick up tough yards between the tackles. He has experience with some of the counter and quick handoff plays. He’s also a threat out of the backfield as a pass catcher.
Hill ran hard and well earlier this season when he was being featured more offensively. His problem came with struggles at the mesh point between him and Lamar Jackson, resulting in multiple fumbles. Jackson hasn’t had those same issues with Gus Edwards or Mitchell. If Hill and Jackson have ironed those issues out, Hill could see a significant uptick in touches.
Gordon, meanwhile, figures to fall in as the No. 3 back. The 30-year-old was reasonably effective in limited action earlier this season. In three games as a practice squad callup, Gordon rushed for 53 yards on 13 carries and had three catches for 46 yards.
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