Top 5 Rookies Most Likely To Make An Impact For The Ravens
Baltimore (WJZ) -- With the NFL Draft and Rookie Minicamps wrapped up, lets take a look at the top 5 rookies most likely to make an impact in 2016.
- Ronnie Stanley, OT, Notre Dame: When you're the 6th pick taken in the NFL draft, the expectations for you are very high. So it's no surprise that Ronnie Stanley is first on this list. Whether he ends up playing tackle or guard in his rookie season is irrelevant. Based on his skill set, it's expected that he'll start in day 1 and succeed wherever he's placed. Lack of protection has been an issue for Baltimore since the departure of Jonathan Ogden. Ravens coaches hope that Stanley is the answer they've been looking for.
- Bronson Kaufusi, DE, BYU: Kaufusi may be another rookie that is placed in the starting lineup on Day 1 due to both talent and need. With the departure of Chris Canty, there is an immediate hole at defensive end that needs to be filled. Kaufusi was very productive during his collegiate career but many wonder whether that success can translate over to the NFL. The film says he can do it and with a high level of success.
- Kenneth Dixon, RB, Louisiana Tech: In the second round of the NFL draft in 2008, the Baltimore Ravens selected Ray Rice out of Rutgers. It was a big steal for Baltimore and Kenneth Dixon looks to follow that same trend in 2016. Dixon finished with an unbelievable 87 touchdowns in his collegiate career. The former bulldog has a knack for reaching the endzone and his ability to catch the ball will be an asset that Baltimore will be sure to use to their advantage.
- Keenan Reynolds, WR, Navy: The Ravens aren't the only ones hoping Keenan Reynolds becomes a valuable weapon for the team. The entire country is rooting for the Navy player. Reynolds figures to provide a much needed surge to the kick/punt returner position and will work on developing into a formidable slot receiver.
- Victor Ochi, OLB, Stony Brook: Ochi dominated as an edge rusher in the FCS. But the talent level between the FCS and the NFL was too drastic for an NFL team to take a shot at the productive linebacker. Instead, the Ravens sent him an invitation to prove he belongs with the elites. The tape on Ochi is very impressive. His skillset reminds many of Elvis Dumervil, another Baltimore Raven, and his presence in camp may be just what Ochi needs in order to make the roster. Don't be surprised if he not only makes the team, but has an impact on the football field as well.
