Ravens Select Devontez Walker as a Promising Deep Threat in the NFL Draft
ICARO Media Group
In the recent NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens made a significant move on Day 3 by selecting Devontez "Tez" Walker from North Carolina as their rookie wide receiver and deep threat option. The Ravens picked Walker at No. 113, recognizing his potential to help quarterback Lamar Jackson and the team expose defenses with his impressive speed.
Standing at 6 feet 1 ½ inches tall, Walker possesses the attributes needed to take the top off defenses. He showcased his exceptional speed by running the 40-yard dash in just 4.36 seconds, which ranked as the fourth-fastest time among wide receivers at the Combine.
Excited about joining the Ravens, Walker expressed his enthusiasm for the organization's history, the presence of a great quarterback in Lamar Jackson, and an offense that recently added Derrick Henry. With 41 catches, 699 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns in just eight games (six starts) last season, Walker's performance at North Carolina demonstrated his big-play potential.
Walker's journey to the Ravens was not without hurdles. He began his college football career at North Carolina Central, but his freshman season was canceled due to the pandemic. He then transferred to Kent State before eventually ending up at North Carolina. However, an eligibility dispute with the NCAA resulted in a shortened season for Walker.
Initially, Walker and North Carolina's compliance department believed he would be immediately eligible upon transferring for the 2023 season due to the pandemic's impact and his open discussion about mental health challenges. However, the NCAA initially denied the request, leading to appeals and backlash, including involvement from the governor of North Carolina. Ultimately, the NCAA reversed its decision on October 5, declaring Walker eligible for the remainder of the 2023 season.
With the distractions behind him, Walker remained a standout playmaker for the Tar Heels, catching the only 20-plus-yard pass allowed by Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins, the Ravens' first-round pick last season.
Walker's ability to challenge top-level corners like Wiggins impressed his teammates and opponents alike. Having faced Walker, Wiggins himself acknowledged the skill and speed the rookie wide receiver possesses. Walker acknowledged Wiggins as one of the best players he has ever played against and relished the opportunity to compete against him.
While Walker has demonstrated his playmaking abilities, there are areas he seeks to improve upon, such as reducing drops, as he had 12 drops over the past two seasons. Additionally, Walker aims to expand his route tree at the professional level, as he was predominantly utilized on linear routes at North Carolina.
Scouting experts at Bleacher Report have compared Walker's game to former Ravens and Steelers wide receiver Mike Wallace. As the Ravens look to enhance their deep passing game, Walker's arrival, coupled with his versatility to line up in various positions, should provide an added dimension to the offense and aid in connecting on deep shots more frequently.
Walker expressed his admiration for Lamar Jackson, revealing that he has been following Jackson's career since high school. He is thrilled that his wish to play alongside Jackson has now come true, recognizing Jackson's greatness and looking forward to being a reliable target for him.
The Ravens' decision to select Devontez Walker not only adds a talented rookie to their receiving corps but also bolsters their deep threat capabilities. With his speed, athleticism, and the desire to improve, Walker has the potential to make a significant impact in the NFL and contribute to the Ravens' offensive success.
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