Key Takeaways:
* Baltimore Ravens’ fifth-round selection Rasheen Ali draws comparisons to Miami Dolphins’ touchdown leader Raheem Mostert.
* Ali demonstrates A+ explosion and fits the Ravens’ evolving offense perfectly.
* Emory Hunt’s analysis defines Ali as a speed back similar to Keaton Mitchell, last season’s breakthrough undrafted playmaker on the ground.
* With Mitchell recovering from injury, Ali may get more chances to demonstrate his prowess during the upcoming season.
* Incorporating versatile runners like Ali could help in diversifying Baltimore’s rushing schemes.
A New Layer to The Ravens’ Offense
The Baltimore Ravens have perhaps pulled off a steal in the 2024 NFL draft by selecting Rasheen Ali in the fifth round. Emory Hunt, the owner of “Football Gameplan,” noted during the “Ross Tucker Football Podcast” that Ali reminded him of league-leading touchdown scorer Raheem Mostert. What makes Ali special is his A+ explosion that matches Mostert’s style. He has an ability to capitalize on available lanes and navigate the field with a rapid pace, much like Mostert’s style.
Hunt enthusiastically stated how Ali fits into the Ravens’ evolving offense smoothly. Lamar Jackson’s skill set and Ali’s explosive speed represent a lethal combination that may leave opponents grasping at straws.
When Comparisons Turn Real
Studying the complete portfolio of Ali, Hunt associates him as a speed back much like Keaton Mitchell, last season’s ground-breaking undrafted player. Mitchell happens to be on his path to recovery from a torn ACL, unintentionally paving the way for Ali to seize the opportunity for more game time during his debut season. Moreover, Ali could continue to contribute even when Mitchell makes a much-anticipated comeback.
Ali has proved his mettle as a big-play threat during his time at Marshall. Averaging an impressive 5.5 yards per carry, Ali is known for his breakaway runs. Further, he was lauded for leading the FBS with seven plays of over 50+ yards last season, demonstrating his knack for stretching the field.
Comparisons to Miami Dolphins’ Raheem Mostert shouldn’t be taken lightly. Last season Mostert executed seven runs of over 20-plus yards, including a season-high of 49 yards. Mostert managed 21 touchdowns, finding the end zone on 18 occasions on the ground and three times through-passing. Ali, with his record 43 touchdowns at the collegiate level, showcases a promising potential to score big in NFL.
The Need for Versatility in Running Game
The Ravens are widening their playbook, moving ahead from a power-based ground attack to infusing more speed outside. With former stars Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins leaving footsteps behind with the Los Angeles Chargers, the Ravens are looking at Ali to bring that versatility into their rushing tactics. However, a minor setback in the form of a ruptured bicep at the rookie minicamp had hindered Ali’s progress. But the Ravens’ head coach, John Harbaugh, assures that Ali will be more than ready come the training camp.
Ravens fans will mark July 21st on their calendars, looking forward to the training camp where Ali will be showcasing his rapid pace. He and Derrick Henry’s brute strength would be essential components for the Ravens’ running scheme advisor, Todd Monken, as he morphs methods for better ground game. With Ali’s versatility and Henry’s raw power, Baltimore’s offense could bring more nuanced ways of advancing the ball, increasingly enforcing their stakes in the league. Ali, the 23-year-old prodigy, is a name to watch out for. Who knows, he may just emerge as the steal of the 2024 NFL draft.