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Dennis Pitta is not producing

Pittsburgh Steelers v Baltimore Ravens Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images

Week two against the Cleveland Browns, Dennis Pitta went OFF for almost career numbers. His second game with over 100 yards in his career, catching 9 of 12 targets for 102 yards. After the game Ravens fans couldn’t be more thrilled as their long-time IR’ed favorite clearly is back to form. It didn’t last long though, as Pitta hasn’t brought 70 yards to the squad since then.

The tight end position for the Ravens is crucial. With a run-heavy offense Baltimore needs a strong blocker that can also go out for the pass. Somebody that is usable in both settings helps Joe Flacco on play-action passing as well. Dennis Pitta has proven these past few weeks he is not a capable blocker. His pass-catching and skills as a receiver also aren’t good enough to overlook the sub-bar blocks either.

It’s feeling more and more like Dennis Pitta is only around as he’s the only one left standing. Maxx Williams and Benjamin Watson are both on injured reserve while Crockett Gillmore is still nursing an injury. Dennis was the only one healthy or not suspended for the past few weeks. Darren Waller has returned from his suspension and not performed badly. Only four catches from Waller, but he did have a touchdown. Waller’s blocking is also better than Pitta, and also cheaper.

Nick Boyle has come off suspension and no doubt will be back in action soon. Boyle was really performing before getting caught for PED’s a second time, landing a ten game suspension. Boyle is a great blocking tight end who also can catch passes and get the yards after the catch necessary. He’s been seen hurdling defenders multiple times. If Boyle can stay clean and produce, expect Pitta to be phased out if he can’t start making the difference soon.