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Jaleel Scott could become a dynamic red zone threat for the Ravens

The former New Mexico State receiver could be part of the solution to Baltimore’s red zone issues

NCAA Football: Arizona Bowl-New Mexico State vs Utah State Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

During the 2018 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens sought to address several key needs to improve the team’s ability to compete offensively. The front office needed to bring in fresh talent at the tight end position, and they did that by drafting both Hayden Hurst and Mark Andrews. Building the wide receiver talent pool has been a prominent part of offseason transactions as well, and the draft was no exception, with Baltimore selecting Jaleel Scott and Jordan Lasley. Specifically, Scott has shown the ability to make plays in the red zone.

At 6’6”, 215 lbs, Scott is a massive target for Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, and he will be an asset for Lamar Jackson in the future. During his final season at New Mexico State, Scott reeled in 76 catches for 1,079 receiving yards (14.2 yards per reception) and recorded nine touchdowns.

With a very large catch radius, Scott has the ability to fight for balls at the point of attack. Baltimore typically relies on speedy receivers who can burst away and create separation. Though Scott may not be able to provide that same separation, he has a lot of strength and can beat up on corners with his size.

However, there are a few pieces of his game that he will need to refine at the next level, and his lack of explosiveness could prove challenging to his transition. While he is not the quickest or the fastest receiver, he has the physical tools to develop and improve over time.

Scott, Michael Crabtree and fellow rookies like Hurst and Andrews have the ability to provide a dimension to Baltimore’s red zone game planning that the team has not seen since the days of Anquan Boldin and Dennis Pitta. Scott may be the rawest player of them all, but he has the potential to become a key contributor for seasons to come in Baltimore.