New Offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak loves using multiple Tight End formations and since, at least as of this moment, the Ravens have no Tight End under contract this position would appear to be one of need heading into the draft. The value of oversized, athletic Tight Ends has never been higher and that means Eric Ebron should receive First-Round consideration from plenty of teams.
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Eric Ebron
Tight End
North Carolina
Height: 6’4″ Weight: 245 lbs. 40 Time: (projected) 4.65
Strengths:
-Exceptional athlete, combo of size and strength
-Works well in the slot; can attack the seams
-Mismatch nightmare; too fast for linebackers, to big and strong for safeties
Weaknesses:
-Inconsistent Blocker
-Polish route running
-Lack of concentration ; tends to drop easy catches
2011 Stats: 10 receptions for 207 yards (20.7 Avg) , 1 TD
2012 Stats: 40 receptions for 625 yards (15.6 Avg) , 4 TD
2013 Stats: 62 receptions for 973 yards (15.7 Avg) , 3 TD
Even if the Ravens re-sign Dennis Pitta, as most expect, the prospect of pairing him with the speedy, athletic Ebron on the other side is incredibly intriguing. He displays a fluid acceleration off the line and an ability to make defenders miss to gain that all important YAC that every offense looks for.
His athleticism allows for versatility in the offense and you could see him line up anywhere from the slot, end, or perhaps as an H-Back. That type of versatility allows for the creativity in an offense that fans crave. His ability to create mismatches has drawn some comparisons to former Terp Vernon Davis and his ceiling as a three-down professional seems likely.
Ebron does have plenty of work do though before he can reach those levels. He will need to add bulk and continue improving both his blocking and route running. At times he was overpowered at the point of attack though he did show examples of holding his own in pass protection. His routes need to be crisper and he must show more aggressiveness during contested catches.
For the Ravens offense to improve the front office needs to give Joe Flacco and Coach Kubiak some weapons to utilize in the revamped offense. Ebron could be a breakout star with a high ceiling if he continues to improve in the areas noted. My hope is that whomever Baltimore selects in the First Round that player should be someone who can help right away. Ebron’s skill-set presents an exciting option in that regard.
Matt has lived in Maryland his entire life and is a graduate of Calvert Hall and Towson University. has always been an avid Baltimore sports fan. Since 2007, he has been writing and talking about Baltimore sports, especially the Ravens. His work has appeared on Ravens Gab, Russell Street Report, and he currently co-hosts a podcast “The Blitz- A Ravens podcast” with Brent Harris.