More and more NFL rookies are expected to contribute early in their careers. However, for them to make an impact they need to beat out a veteran player. We are going to analyze the situation of specific rookies and determine the likely hood of them winning a position battle.
Rookie Depth Chart Battles: Torrey Smith
Player: Torrey Smith
Team: Baltimore Ravens
Position: Wide Receiver
Competition: Derrick Mason, Donte' Stallworth, Anquan Boldin, Tandon Doss, Ed Dickson, Dennis Pitta
Chance of winning the battle: 35 percent
Thoughts: Baltimore went into the 2011 NFL Draft looking to add some speed to their receiving corps and that is exactly what Torry Smith brings to the table. He will be able to stretch the defense and put pressure on the defensive backfield. The combination of Smith's speed and Joe Flacco's arm could be dangerous.
Smith needs to work on refining his route running and do a better job hanging onto the football. However, there is no questioning his speed and playmaking ability. He will be given every opportunity to win a role with the offense but he is facing some tough competition.
Right now, Donte’ Stallworth is Smith’s main competition for the slot receiver role but he also need to compete with the tight ends. The Ravens like to employ two tight end sets which could take snaps away from the slot receiver. Both Ed Dickson and Dennis Pitta contribute more in the passing game than in the running game but are still big bodies with some ability to block.
Smith will have to prove that he is more of a playmaker than Pitta, Dickson, and Stallworth or he could find himself buried in the depth chart.
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