Kamar Aiken started his career out as an undrafted free agent out of the University of Central Florida in 2011. He was eventually signed by the Buffalo Bills and played for them from 2011-2012. His next destination would be the Chicago Bears, but he was only on the practice squad for a short time in 2012 until he was dropped and picked up by the New England Patriots.
The Emergence of Kamar Aiken
After Aiken was released from the New England Patriots in 2013, the Baltimore Ravens saw an opportunity and the team signed him. Aiken first signed on to the Ravens practice squad in October of 2013. He saw his first regular season action in 2014 when he would eventually have 24 receptions for 267 yards and three touchdowns.
He scored his first post season touchdown against his former team, New England, who eventually went on to win Super Bowl XLIX. Around this time, Aikens hidden talent was uncovered.
In 2015 Aiken busted on to the scene and had a career year, recording team highs for the Ravens in multiple categories. He started 14 of 16 games and recorded 944 yards on 75 receptions along with five touchdowns. Nobody expected Kamar Aiken to have as large of an impact as he did in 2015, being the leading receiver for the Ravens. He had stepped up majorly with the injury problems of veteran wide receiver Steve Smith Sr.
Heading into the 2016 season, expect Aiken to have a large impact. However, he will most likely not have as good of a statistical season as 2015 as the Ravens have added a new receiver in Mike Wallace, and a strong Steve Smith Sr. who looks for this season to actually be his final season, unlike last year.
The Baltimore Ravens are coming back with a vengeance and expect Kamar Aiken to be a large part of their success.
Is Kamar Aiken a One Year Wonder?
All signs point towards him not just being a player who was only good for one year. The Ravens used him significantly as he showed he was able to step it up and bring his play to the next level. With a Steve Smith injury and no other major wide receiver force, he was able to accomplish what he did.
In 2016, his confidence has grown and his play is only rising. With the return of Smith Sr in what looks to be his last season in the NFL, it may seem as if Aiken may not get as many targets, but with his age and recent injury, he may play, but not be in full force for a few weeks.
Mike Wallace is an off-season addition that adds another veteran presence to the receiving group. Having other veteran receivers who have made an impact in previous years can really increase the play of those around them, making Aiken only better.
Keep an eye on Kamar Aiken this year to stay consistent in his play and grow during the season. Him and the Baltimore Ravens are working on improving the disappointing and injury filled year of 2015.
