Ravens' Rising Stars: A Look at Second-Year Standouts
The Baltimore Ravens made waves in last year’s draft, snagging 11 new faces, with Malaki Starks as the cherry on top of their first-round picks. Fast forward to today, and Starks has emerged as a standout safety, quickly becoming one of the league's most promising young talents. But the Ravens' draft success doesn't stop there.
Second-round pick Mike Green took a bit of time to adjust, but he's finding his rhythm. Meanwhile, fourth-rounder Teddye Buchanan turned heads by claiming the starting weakside linebacker position over Trenton Simpson.
With Jesse Minter stepping in as the new head coach, there's a buzz around the Ravens' young roster as they gear up for off-season workouts. Let’s dive into seven second-year players who are set to make waves.
WR Cornelius Johnson
Originally drafted by the Chargers in the seventh round, Johnson spent his rookie year on the Packers' practice squad. Despite a modest preseason showing with six catches for 50 yards, he found a home on the Ravens' practice squad. Keep an eye on him as he aims to carve out a role in Baltimore's receiving corps.
OT Gerad Lichtenhan
Standing tall at 6-8, Lichtenhan went undrafted but didn’t go unnoticed. He held down the left tackle spot for Oregon State in 2024, allowing just two sacks all season. After spending last year on the practice squad, his development will be intriguing to follow.
CB Marquise Robinson
Robinson's journey took him from Southwest Mississippi Community College to Arkansas, where he recorded 36 tackles and one interception in his final season. Signed as an undrafted free agent, Robinson’s versatility and defensive prowess make him a player to watch.
Mike Green
Green's rookie campaign started slowly, but he found his groove, logging 713 snaps and contributing 3.5 sacks, 19 pressures, and 14 quarterback hits. As he continues to grow, Green could become a key piece of the Ravens' defense.
Emery Jones Jr.
After a shoulder injury sidelined him for much of his rookie season, Jones Jr. is eyeing a starting guard position. With just 48 snaps under his belt, his potential impact in the upcoming season is a storyline worth following.
LB Teddye Buchanan
Buchanan's rookie year was cut short due to a knee injury, but not before he made a significant impact. With 91 tackles, a forced fumble, and a pass defended, he earned AFC Defensive Rookie of the Month honors in October. His recovery and return will be pivotal for the Ravens' defense.
CBs Bilhal Kone and Robert Longerbeam
Both Kone and Longerbeam faced setbacks with season-ending knee injuries. Their rehabilitation and return to the field are crucial for the Ravens' secondary depth.
As the Ravens prepare for another season, these second-year players are poised to leave their mark. With a mix of raw talent and determination, Baltimore's young guns are ready to shine.