The Baltimore Ravens suffered an unbelievable number of injuries last year. Whether it was the offseason, training camp or regular season, Ravens players were going down at an alarming rate that kept them sidelined.
One of the positions that they were hit hardest at was running back. Over the span of 19 days, the Ravens had five players suffer season-ending injuries. Three of those season-ending injuries were suffered by running backs.
J.K. Dobbins tore his ACL in the final preseason game of the year. After that, third-string running back Justice Hill, who would have been elevated to the No. 2 role following Dobbins’ injury, went down with a torn Achilles. Gus Edwards, now the starter, tore his ACL on back-to-back plays with Marcus Peters just a few days later.
As a result, the Ravens relied on veterans to carry the load in the backfield. Lamar Jackson led the team in rushing, followed by blasts from the past in Devonta Freeman and Latavius Murray. Le’Veon Bell made some appearances for the team as well.
Some positive regression in the injury department would go a long way in Baltimore. But, they are going to make sure to cover all of their bases so that they have the depth in case injuries occur again. That is why it is unsurprising that they are showing some interest in running backs in the 2022 draft class.
One of the running backs that Baltimore has met with is Texas A&M’s, Isaiah Spiller. The Ravens held a virtual meeting with Spiller, who is one of four running backs that Baltimore has met with so far.
Spiller had a strong three-year career with the Aggies. He compiled 2,993 yards on 541 carries, scoring 25 touchdowns. He possesses some good elusiveness and would benefit from playing behind an offensive line that excels more in run blocking.
Despite that, he made the most of his situation and produced. For now, Spiller has the look of an early-down back. He caught at least 20 passes each season at College Station, but he has some work to do in pass protection to be a third-down back in the NFL.
But, that is something that can be improved and polished at the next level. Some of the quickness and burst that he possesses cannot be taught. Technique and learning pass protection is something that can be taught and will be the difference between Spiller becoming a three-down back or not.
Standing 6’1” and weighing 215 pounds, Spiller possesses the size to be an every-down back should he develop in the passing game.
