Although Derrick Mason is now pretty much "ancient" in NFL terms, he is still a viable option and integral part of the Baltimore Ravenspassing offense. The 37 year old wide receiver continues to be productive, although his statistics have tailed off over the past three year. However, his numbers are still among the top 40 receivers in the NFL, in terms of receptions in the 2010 regular season.
Mason's 61 receptions were 3rd on the Ravens in 2010 and 40th in the NFL. His "tail-off" is evidenced by the downward trend of receptions over the past three years, but his production continues to be solid, his hands still excellent and he remains one of the best short-route runners in the league. Mason figures to be one of the Ravens top two receivers in 2011, according to a story on Football News Now.
In 2009, he had 73 receptions, best amongst wide receivers on the team, but still behind Ray Rice's 78 catches out of the backfield. Those 73 receptions were good for 25th overall in the NFL. His 2008 season was even better, with 80 catches, good for the 16th best in the entire league.
His drop off in 2010 is a facotr of a bunch of reasons, perhaps none being negative towards Mason's abilities or efforts. The addition of Anquan Boldin, who led the team in 2010 with 64 receptions, probably figures as much in the decline as anything. With the Ravens drafting two more wideouts in the 2011 NFL Draft, expect his production to drop even more in what could end up being his last season, be it in the league or at least with the Ravens.
Either way, Mason remains a prime target for QB Joe Flacco, and might still be his go-to guy when the game is on the line and a few yards are needed for the first down.