Insider: Ravens ‘Expected’ to Sign Chicago Bear WR

The Baltimore Ravens‘ general manager, Eric DeCosta, appears to be making a significant move to strengthen his roster with the potential addition of veteran wide receiver Anthony Miller. Known for his strategic late-season acquisitions, DeCosta seems to be adding another experienced piece to the puzzle, aiming to fortify the team’s receiving corps.

On August 8, NFL insider Jordan Schultz revealed via X (formerly Twitter) that the Ravens are expected to sign Miller, a 29-year-old receiver who spent last season with the Kansas City Chiefs. Schultz noted, “Sources: The #Ravens are expected to sign veteran WR Anthony Miller. The 29-year-old spent last season with the #Chiefs and has 12 career TDs.”

https://twitter.com/Schultz_Report/status/1821608770642026869

A Strategic Depth Addition

DeCosta’s potential move for Miller comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance the depth of a receiving room that, while promising, is relatively young and unproven. This decision could serve as a safeguard, particularly in light of recent concerns surrounding WR Rashod Bateman, who left practice earlier this week with an injury. With Bateman’s health uncertain, Miller’s addition could offer valuable experience and insurance.

The Ravens have already made strides to bolster their receiving options, having signed WR Russell Gage earlier in the week. This recent move indicates a clear intent to create a competitive environment ahead of their first preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles on August 9. With Miller in the mix, the Ravens are set to enhance their depth chart and provide more options for quarterback Lamar Jackson.

Miller’s Career Journey

Anthony Miller’s journey through the NFL has been a bit tumultuous. Drafted out of Memphis by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft, Miller entered the league with high expectations. His rookie season was promising, featuring seven touchdowns alongside 33 catches for 423 yards. However, despite incremental improvements in his subsequent seasons, he never quite reached the same heights.

After his promising start, Miller’s career trajectory became less stable. Following three seasons with the Bears, he split time between the Houston Texans and Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021. Despite a stint on the Steelers’ practice squad, Miller’s recent years have seen limited on-field action, including short tenures with the San Francisco 49ers, Indianapolis Colts, and finally the Chiefs.

https://twitter.com/chbearsupdates/status/1803193407839391799

The Ravens’ Receiving Room: A Mixed Bag

As the Ravens gear up for the new season, their receiving room presents an intriguing blend of talent and uncertainty. Second-year receiver Zay Flowers will step into a primary role, bringing promise after a solid rookie season. Meanwhile, Bateman’s injury concerns could impact his reliability throughout the season. Nelson Agholor, returning from a productive 2023 season, is expected to play a supportive role, but the rest of the depth chart remains less certain.

Rookie Devontez Walker and special teams contributors Tylan Wallace and Deonte Harty add potential but lack extensive experience. Malik Cunningham, a converted quarterback, is also vying for a spot as a receiver. In this context, adding veterans like Miller and Gage could be crucial for providing stability and experience.

Looking Ahead

As the Ravens prepare for their preseason opener and the broader 2024 NFL season, DeCosta’s strategic acquisitions underscore a commitment to building a competitive roster. While Miller may not be a game-changer, his presence could offer invaluable depth and reliability, particularly in an evolving receiving corps. With high expectations for the season, the Ravens’ efforts to solidify their lineup reflect a determined push toward Super Bowl aspirations.