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The Baltimore Ravens need another playmaker in the form of a tight end or wide receiver. One player that has been often discussed is South Dakota State tight end Dallas Goedert. Goedert appeared on Glenn Clark Radio on Thursday to discuss potentially playing for the Ravens:
.@goedert33: "Going to Baltimore would be an incredible experience...If they do draft me, I'd be happy, I'd be ecstatic." #Ravens
— Glenn Clark (@GlennClarkRadio) April 19, 2018
Goedert stands in at 6’5, 255 lbs. With South Dakota State, Goedert had a prolific career, catching 198 passes for 2988 receiving yards (15.1 yards per reception) and 21 receiving touchdowns. His ability to make big plays makes him an attractive target for many teams in the NFL, drawing comparisons to Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz.
Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco loves to pass to his tight ends. In 2016 and 2017, Dennis Pitta (86) and Ben Watson (61) respectively led the team in receptions. Baltimore will have to replace Watson, as he signed with the New Orleans Saints during the off-season.
Baltimore’s other tight ends include Maxx Williams, Nick Boyle, Darren Waller and Vince Mayle. With Waller suspended for the entire 2017 season, the trio of Williams, Boyle and Mayle combined for 43 receptions, 289 receiving yards and one touchdown. Adding Goedert would be an immediate upgrade to the tight end position for Baltimore.
Having Goedert around could also allow for teams to not just key-in on sticking with wide receivers Michael Crabtree and John Brown. Goedert can also split out wide or go inside in the slot. His versatility and athleticism should create mismatches on linebackers and safeties.
As he is projected to be a first or second round pick in next week’s NFL Draft, it remains to be seen if Baltimore would use the sixteenth overall pick on a tight end or would they trade for a later pick in the first round. If he does live up to the potential, Goedert would be an extremely valuable pick in the first round for the Ravens.