(Photo: BVM Sports)
The Tight End position has really evolved in the last 20-25 years or so. Back then, they were used in short yardage situations and to move the chains on third downs which they still are, but nowadays, they are used in the same capacity as Wide Receivers are. You will see them lined up in the slot or even flanked out wide on the perimeter and whenever you see them lined out where the Wide Receivers usually line up, nine times out of ten, they are getting the football. One Tight End I’ve followed closely since his college days at Oklahoma is Mark Andrews. He was Baker Mayfield’s safety valve during those days and now, he serves as Lamar Jackson’s go to guy in Baltimore. On Thursday night, Mark was tackled after making a catch and he immediately grabbed his ankle. He would miss the rest of the game and it would later be announced that his season is over after cracking his fibula and injuring ligaments in his ankle.
This is the best Tight End not named Travis. I don’t think people realize how good this guy is when he’s on the field. In order for a pass catcher to receive the ball from the Quarterback, not only is chemistry important, but you must earn the trust of your Quarterback and Mark has done just that with Lamar. He’s a true Tight End and I say that because of everything he does without the ball in his hands. He’s an excellent blocker and will often line up as a sixth Offensive Lineman to help protect Lamar. Even when his teammates are catching passes, Mark will set the edge and create a path for them to get down the field. As a receiver, he won’t necessarily blow you away with his speed, but he knows how to position himself to make a catch and he also uses his athleticism to his advantage. Mark has the ability to extend out and make a catch. Every pass Lamar throws in his vicinity hits him right in the hands. Whenever it’s a one on one or a 50/50 ball, he will make that contested catch. Mark is 6’5 and uses all of his height to help him. His route running is very smooth as he finds ways to find the spot, then bam, he’s open and the ball is coming his way. There’s not a Linebacker that can cover him and most defenses put a safety on him. I’ll never forget this play from 2021 on a Sunday night against the Cleveland Browns. Cleveland sent an all out blitz which pushed Lamar way out of the pocket and all he had to do was fling the ball up in the air and guess who was there to catch it? Number 89!
This is a tough blow for the Ravens offense. He’s their best weapon and creates so many mismatches across the board. Mark makes so many plays for this offense and whenever you need that catch over the middle, this is your guy to target. In the redone, he’s getting the ball and will usually be the first read. It will take a group effort to replace his production and Isaiah Likely will come in and serve as his replacement. I’m wishing Mark a speedy recovery and hope to see him on the field again soon.
