Chris Rainey RB, Florida 5'9" 174lbs.
The Ravens failed to bring in Ted Ginn Jr. in free agency and the David Reed experiment seems like it's over, especially considering his ACL tear. Reed has also fallen out of favor with the fan base and front office after a series of inexplicable errors on the field. He has also had his off the field issues, testing positive for marijuana.
The Ravens have a few guys that can return kicks like Laquan Williams and Lardarius Webb, but Webb has become too important in the secondary to risk an injury in the return game. They need to bring in another returner to compete with Laquan Williams and who ever else they are thinking of using.
Chris Rainey doesn't really have a set position and is very under-sized for the NFL at 5'8" 180 pounds, but the kid can return kicks.Besides, being undersized is not a make or break standard in the NFL any more. Many undersized running backs have flourished if used correctly.
Not only is Rainey a great returner he is also a special teams standout in other areas. He's also blocked six kicks in his collegiate career and is a solid tackler.
Overall I think he could be a perfect late round pick for Baltimore and hope he is on our radar.,
Here is Rainey's draft profile from NFL.com:
Overview
Rainey, like his teammate Jeff Demps, is a burner and could challenge the record for fastest 40-yard dash time at this year's combine. Unlike Demps, his track-speed translates to the football field, which makes him an intriguing prospect who has played various roles within Florida's offense. While not nearly as big as former teammate Percy Harvin, Rainey has been able to deliver for the Gators in a similar fashion. He uses his supreme agility and foot quickness to make guys miss and make an electric play whenever he touches the ball. He could move up into the middle rounds by April if he continues to display his athletic ability in the coming months.
Analysis
Strengths
Rainey is quick off the snap to make a decision and hit the hole hard. He usually looks to get the edge and almost always does. He is a very effective short-area mover who can ignite a two-step power move to beat a defender laterally and get to the edge. He is the type of athlete whose explosion is obvious every time he sticks his toes in the ground. He is always a threat to get the edge, make one quick inside move, and take it the distance. He is a straight-line runner but is elusive and make defenders miss in the open field. He is a good route runner out of the backfield and out of the slot and he will likely get work there early in the pros.
Weaknesses
Rainey is undersized and it shows when he tries to run inside or pass protect. He almost always looks to get outside and will go down on contact when running in the box. He is not willing nor able to block linebackers and protect the quarterback and will get overpowered at the next level. He is a strict work-in-space player at the next level and will have a hard time playing as a traditional running back.
