Though the Baltimore Ravens have never fielded an Offensive Rookie of the Year, the 2019 season may bring their best shot yet to date to do so.
In his ranking of the top 10 candidates for this year’s award, NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein listed Ravens wide receiver Marquise Brown at No. 4. Ahead of Brown on the list were Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, Oakland Raiders running back Josh Jacobs and Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery.
“[Brown] may be slightly built, but his ability to find the paint as a deep-ball option on the outside or a catch-and-run specialist from the slot gives him the nod as the top receiver on the OROY board,” wrote Zierlein.
“Brown is special with the ball in his hands, so look for Ravens offensive coordinator Greg Roman to load him up with receiver screens and shallow crossers to not only attack defenses but also elevate Lamar Jackson’s confidence early in games. Brown has a chance to become the most-targeted pass catcher on the team.”
Brown was one of five wide receivers on the list, leading the group that also included the Tennessee Titans’ A.J. Brown (fifth), New England Patriots’ N’Keal Harry (sixth), Seattle Seahawks’ D.J. Metcalf (seventh) and Indianapolis Colts’ Parris Campbell (10th).
Were Brown to win the award, it would not only be a franchise first, but also a rarity for receivers. Only three wide receivers have received the honor over the past 20 years. Furthermore, four of the last six recipients have been running backs.
