The Baltimore Ravens appeared well-positioned at running back with the addition of two-time NFL rushing champion Derrick Henry this offseason. However, injuries have thinned their depth chart, and Super Bowl champion Jerick McKinnon could be the solution.
According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine, adding McKinnon could address the Ravens’ current issues. With the primary goal being to keep Derrick Henry healthy for the crucial latter part of the season and the playoffs, Ballentine notes that the Ravens are not fully prepared to manage this challenge right now.
Ballentine highlighted that “Keaton Mitchell will begin the season on the PUP list and Owen Wright has been placed on injured reserve.” Given these setbacks, McKinnon, despite being 32, could provide valuable assistance as a pass-catching back. Last season, McKinnon recorded 56 receptions for 512 yards and 10 total touchdowns.
McKinnon would bring a unique skill set to the Ravens’ backfield, offering a different dynamic as a receiver. His experience and effectiveness as a pass-catching back were key to the Kansas City Chiefs’ success in the last two Super Bowls.
The Ravens currently lack a true receiving threat out of the backfield. While Henry is a powerful runner, he is not primarily known for his receiving skills. Justice Hill, Henry’s primary backup, also lacks significant pass-catching credentials, with only 53 career receptions to his name.
In contrast, McKinnon boasts an impressive track record with 338 career catches and 22 touchdowns through the air, highlighting his value in a specialized role. His ability to excel in the red zone and as a check-down option makes him a versatile asset. His quickness and route-running proficiency have created mismatches against various defenses, as demonstrated when he outmaneuvered linebacker Devin Lloyd and the Jacksonville Jaguars, as noted by Nate Tice of Yahoo Sports.
Plays like these illustrate why McKinnon is a quarterback-friendly target. He would simplify things for Ravens’ QB Lamar Jackson by providing easy reads and quick throws. Additionally, McKinnon would enable offensive coordinator Todd Monken to implement more complex passing schemes. For example, the Chiefs effectively utilized McKinnon in motion to exploit mismatches, as seen in his touchdown catch against the Denver Broncos in 2023, according to Next Gen Stats.
Integrating McKinnon with tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely could also help mitigate the Ravens’ ongoing shortage of star wide receivers. His versatility would be a significant asset in the running back room, complementing the existing roster.
With Mitchell and Wright both sidelined—Mitchell due to a torn ACL and Wright with a broken foot—the Ravens are relying on 2024 NFL Draft fifth-round pick Rasheen Ali to add speed and receiving ability to the backfield. However, Ali is currently dealing with a neck issue, adding to the urgency of finding a reliable alternative.
Bringing McKinnon on board could be a cost-effective move for the Ravens, as he remains unsigned and could potentially be acquired for the veteran’s minimum salary. With the Ravens having just under $5 million in cap space, this would be a practical way to bolster their running back depth and versatility.