Unsung Performance from Week 1: Nick Boyle

Nick Boyle has been largely disappointing since entering the league out of Delaware in 2015, and when the Ravens drafted two tight ends early in the 2018 NFL Draft, his prospects for a larger role in Baltimore’s offense this season dwindled. However, with an injury to first round selection Hayden Hurst, Boyle had the opportunity to shine early in Week 1. While a pass interference call prevented his first career touchdown, Boyle helped Flacco get in rhythm out of the gate by hauling in two receptions for 36 yards on the first two plays of the season.

Boyle tied with Javorius Allen, Michael Crabtree and Willie Snead IV for a game-high six targets. With Flacco’s documented affinity for connecting with tight ends, Boyle serves as an important veteran presence while Mark Andrews acclimates to the league and Hayden Hurst recovers from a stress fracture in his foot.

Averaging 13.3 yards per reception against Buffalo, Boyle also matched his career-long reception of 25 yards against the Jaguars in his rookie season on the first pass of the game. While Flacco is likely to target Boyle less as he becomes more comfortable with his new receivers and tight ends, his reliability and two first downs will go a long way to increase his chances to be incorporated into game planning moving forward.