Ravens RB Keaton Mitchell Brings Unique Skillset to the Table
The Baltimore Ravens are eager to integrate running back Keaton Mitchell into every aspect of their offense this season. After recovering from a severe knee injury in December 2023, Mitchell is back to full health, but with a crowded backfield, he’ll need to distinguish himself to carve out a role. 
Derrick Henry is the clear lead back after an impressive 1,921-yard, 16-touchdown season in his debut with the Ravens. Meanwhile, Justice Hill has emerged as a reliable third-down option, capable of catching passes and providing blocking support.
So, where does Mitchell fit in among these two? According to head coach John Harbaugh, it’s his versatility that sets him apart.
“Keaton is a versatile player,” Harbaugh said to reporters on Friday. “He’s got speed, obviously, and we saw this in his rookie year. He can catch the ball, run routes, and he’s a real threat. Yesterday, Roquan [Smith] made an unbelievable play covering him, which was surprising since it seemed like a mismatch. But it just shows that our running backs are really challenging the defense.”
Mitchell, who went undrafted out of East Carolina, is best known for his speed, clocking a 4.37-second 40-yard dash at the combine and averaging over eight yards per carry as a rookie in 2023. Although he’s had limited involvement in the passing game with just 10 catches for 121 yards in his first two seasons, his blazing speed gives him the potential to make a big impact.
While his skill set might overlap somewhat with Hill’s role, there’s room for differentiation. Hill could be utilized more in short-yardage passing situations, while Mitchell could provide the home-run threat with his explosive speed.
With three talented running backs on the roster, the Ravens will need to maximize the strengths of each to get the most out of their backfield.
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