Ravens Rookie Zay Flowers Draws Comparison To Former All-Pro WR
The Baltimore Ravens completely overhauled their long-struggling receiving corps this offseason, and the cherry on top of the sundae was first-round pick Zay Flowers.
The Boston College product was seen by some as the best receiver in the draft, praised for his ball skills and route-running. Baltimore selected Flowers at No. 22 overall the same day it signed star quarterback Lamar Jackson to a long-term extension, giving him yet another weapon to work with.
As a first-round pick, expectations were always going to be high for Flowers. However, the rookie has received some lofty praise before even stepping foot on an NFL field. According to NFL Rookie Watch, one executive even reportedly claimed that Flowers has similar potential to Buffalo Bills star Stefon Diggs, a former All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler.
Furthermore, scouts reportedly believe that Flowers could surpass the 1,000-yard mark in his rookie season, which would be a smashing success. The Ravens have had just one 1,000-yard receiver in the last eight years (not including tight end Mark Andrews who had 1,361 in 2021), so Flowers breaking that mark in his first season would be huge.
Flowers will have to compete with Odell Beckham Jr., Rashod Bateman and more for targets, but the Ravens' scheme should ensure he gets his share. New offensive coordinator Todd Monken strongly emphasizes the passing game in his offense, as opposed to the more run-heavy scheme the Ravens run under Greg Roman. So even with plenty of talented receivers around him, Flowers will have his own distinct role in the offense.
The Ravens have been looking for a top-flight receiver for years, and if Flowers can live up to the early hype, he could become that receiver.
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