Keaton Mitchell has been turning heads at Baltimore Ravens training camp. The undrafted rookie appears to currently be a strong candidate to make the roster.
Keaton Mitchell Turning Heads at Camp
Mitchell previously impressed at rookie minicamp, flexing his rushing and receiving abilities. However, at training camp, he appears to have found another level. Kyle Phoenix Barber of Baltimore Beatdown had the following to report on Mithcell’s camp so far:
“If the Ravens are to keep an undrafted free agent on their 53-man roster, running back Keaton Mithcell appears to be a frontrunner. He looks far better than I saw him in minicamp […] On Day 2 of camp, he was involved in the passing attack and had a good gain on one particular play.”
Ravens Special Teams Coordinator also sang Mitchell’s praises, saying that Mitchell can “flat out run” while praising Mitchell’s performance on special teams.
Ravens Special Teams Coordinator says that UDFA RB Keaton Mitchell is “headed on the right track” with the team. pic.twitter.com/7DZ8MH7b6H
— Ravens Nation LIVE (@LIVERavenNation) July 29, 2023
The Ravens recently signed Melvin Gordon, making Mitchell’s path to the final roster much tougher. However, if camp is anything to go by, Mitchell could quietly become a difference maker for Baltimore in 2023.
It was a surprise to see Mitchell go undrafted in the 2023 NFL Draft. As such, the Ravens’ acquisition of him was tidy business. They had to fend off other suitors, including the Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers and New York Jets.
Given how sought after his signature was, it was perhaps always the case that Mitchell was a top candidate to make the final 53.
Mitchell is already a fan favourite in Baltimore. Part of that is because he is the son of former Raven, Anthony Mitchell, who was also an undrafted free agent. Will the off-season hype surrounding the former East Carolina running back turn into a roster spot?
Could Keaton Mitchell be a Difference Maker for Ravens in 2023?
With how impressive Mitchell has been so far, many are jumping the gun on the rookie already. He has shown explosive athleticism and good drive, making him an exciting storyline to watch this off-season.
Whether Mitchell becomes an impact player in the NFL remains to be seen. He went undrafted for a reason and his deficiencies could catch up with him. However, camp has suggested otherwise so far.
In order to make an impact in 2023, Mitchell will first need to earn a spot on the final roster. To do this, he will need to beat out his competition.
At the moment, the Ravens currently have J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards and Justice Hill ahead of Mitchell. Gordon will also be looking to nab a spot. However, it is expected that the Ravens will only keep four running backs. The situation might look better for Mitchell if Dobbins opts to sit out amidst his contract saga.
Mitchell has a chance to earn a rotational role, however. His camp performances appear to have impressed coaches. Although Hill has also impressed, and figures to play a similar role to Mitchell, it would be smart for Baltimore to keep two confident receiving backs.
Another thing to note is Mitchell’s special team’s contributions. Mitchell has impressed Horton with his excellent return ability on special teams.
While Devin Duvernay will be the unquestioned return man, having Mitchell as his backup is not the worst idea. As always, coach John Harbaugh appreciates players who excel on special teams which means Mitchell can earn his roster spot this way too.
Preseason will be Mitchell’s next test. However, as it stands, he seems likely to make the roster given his impressive performances at rookie minicamp and training camp.
ECU RB Keaton Mitchell—led CFB in 15+ yd carries last year. There will be size and usage questions but holy mackerel the stop-start ability and shiftiness…. pic.twitter.com/jeNytLZFEF
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) February 22, 2023
Main Photo: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports
