Key Takeaways:
– Baltimore Ravens waived undrafted rookie wide receiver DeAngelo Hardy on May 16.
– Hardy was a leading pass-catcher at North Central College.
– With Hardy’s departure, the Ravens are left with 10 wide receivers on the roster.
– The team is still seeking more wide receiver talent after Odell Beckham Jr.’s move to Miami Dolphins.
On May 16, the Baltimore Ravens made a strategic move in their roster by waiving wide receiver and undrafted free agent rookie DeAngelo Hardy.
Exhibit of Brief Talent: DeAngelo Hardy
DeAngelo Hardy, the young player from North Central College, was signed by the Baltimore Ravens right after the 2024 NFL draft concluded on April 27. After a remarkable college career with 75 catches for 1,353 receiving yards and 20 touchdowns in 2023 alone, Hardy’s joining the Ravens was announced by his agency Exclusive Sports Group. Unfortunately, following a brief three weeks with the Ravens, Hardy has been waived.
Known for his versatility and swift moves, ESPN’s Matt Bowen regarded Hardy as “The Deebo Samuel of Division III football.” His record of 58 touchdown receptions in Division III football placed him 7th in its history.
Roster Space Opens: Ravens’ Quest for Talent Continues
Jeff Zrebiec from The Athletic highlighted that Hardy’s exit leaves an open roster spot within the Ravens’ squad, which currently holds 10 wide receivers. Despite Hardy’s promising potential, ESPN’s Ravens reporter Jamison Hensley noted that it is not unusual for undrafted rookies to be waived during the summer.
The Ravens’ wide receiver position continues to seek an influx of talent, given Odell Beckham Jr.’s recent shift to Miami Dolphins in free agency. Young player Zay Flowers is expected to progress during his sophomore season, though support is required. Fourth-round pick Devontez Walker from the University of North Carolina is the only receiver the Ravens drafted this year.
The quest to fill the wide receiver slot is ongoing, with General Manager Eric DeCosta continuing to scout for potential standouts in the undrafted pool. Among the existing wide receivers, only Nelson Agholor and Rashod Bateman have substantial NFL experience. Tylan Wallace, primarily a kick/punt return specialist, also holds a spot in the roster.
Towards a Stronger Offensive Strategy
In line with these developments, the Ravens’ offensive coordinator, Todd Monken, is committed to maximizing the potential of his wide receiver corps. The aim is to ensure optimal support for Quarterback Lamar Jackson during the 2024 season, and Hardy’s departure could potentially accelerate the search for fresh talent.
As Hardy explores options to either rejoin later in the summer or get on board with another team, the Ravens sit with ten wide receivers, many of whom are yet to prove their mettle. The team has had past success in discovering gems among the undrafted, and DeCosta’s hunt for unpolished diamonds in the undrafted pool might reveal similar success yet again.
Undoubtedly, DeAngelo Hardy’s strong performance at North Central College makes his future career growth a matter of keen interest. For the Ravens, task at hand is to effectively bridge their gap in offensive talent in the coming months.
Source: Heavy.com
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