After 15 seasons working as a playmaking receiver in the NFL, Bobby Engram accepted a position as the Baltimore Ravens wide receivers coach in 2014. Since transitioning into a teacher of his craft, Engram has done wonders for the Ravens wide receiving corps.
In 2014, under Engram’s tutelage, Steve Smith experienced a resurgent season during his first year in Baltimore. Smith recaptured the production from earlier in his career, posting number one receiver production at an advanced age. Smith then averaged nearly 100 yards per game last year before going down to injury.
Engram also helped Torrey Smith produce his best season in terms of touchdowns when their first and last seasons with the Ravens overlapped in 2014. But Engram has done his best work developing young talent at the receiver position.
Kamar Aiken went from journeyman to reliable complimentary player in 2014, adding a postseason touchdown to his resume. Then last season, Aiken broke out with a 75-944-5 line. Engram has also aided Jeremy Butler’s rise from fringe player to a receiver who has earned a spot in the NFL through crisp route running and improved hands.
This offseason, the Ravens have furnished Engram with plenty of young receivers to mentor. Chris Matthews was having a strong camp before missing time with injury. Rookie Chris Moore looks to be ahead of the development curve at this early stage in his career. Keenan Reynolds, another rookie, has steadily improved as he learns the receiver position under Engram’s guidance. And Breshard Perriman might even be healthy (fingers crossed).
Not to mention veteran Mike Wallace, who has built a strong early rapport with Joe Flacco in training camp and is positioned for a big year.
After years of trotting out number three and four receivers who would struggle to even make this 2016 Ravens final roster, the organization has been much better at developing depth at the position over the last few seasons. Engram deserves much of the credit for the improved situation.
Hopefully, Engram sticks around with the Ravens for the long haul and the team can turn a traditional weakness into a consistent strength.