Ravens GM DeCosta 'Excited' For Return Of RB J.K. Dobbins
The Baltimore Ravens are hopeful for the upcoming 2023 season. After a strong offseason and three exhibition games, it's easy to see where the improvement has come and why Ravens fans are excited too. One of the biggest reasons for excitement isn't from a new addition to the team, but rather, the return of a player the team has missed horribly due to injury issues.
Raven general manager Eric DeCosta expressed his excitement over the return of running back J.K. Dobbins, who is interested in a new contract with the team. "I try to keep that stuff in-house," DeCosta said. "We're excited to see what he is going to do this year. He's a talented player. I know he wants to be here. We want him here. I have a lot of respect for him as a person and also as a competitor."
via FanStreamSports.com
DeCosta spoke with reporters on Friday with the season-opener slated for Sept. 10 against a new-look Houston Texans. He discussed the Dobbins contract issue, and how he's a priority regardless of what something about the importance of the running back position in the new NFL.
"We've paid inside linebackers. We've drafted safeties in the first round. We've drafted a center in the first round," he said. "Those aren't your typical most important positions. We've paid left tackles a lot of money. We've paid corners a lot of money. We've paid quarterbacks a lot of money. So I do it based on how good the player is, not necessarily, 'Well, this position you should give a ton of money to, and this position you can't give any money to.' "
For the Ravens to be successful this year through the air, they have to have a viable run game - and one that isn't dependent upon quarterback Lamar Jackson's legs. And that starts with Dobbins.
Dobbins has recently been removed from the PUP (physically unable to perform) list. Although he's missed most of the offseason, he still has time to catch up. But in order for him to be a factor, he needs to do more than catch up, he needs to be the Dobbins from before injuries plagued his career.
"When he's played, he's been a warrior. He's played through injuries when he's been able to," DeCosta said. "He's a leader. I think he's respected. I have a strong affinity for him, personally, and we're very excited that he's back. He's healthy this year. He looks great, and he's ready to go."
