Running back Keaton Mitchell is one of the most intriguing pieces in the Baltimore Ravens' offense this year. While he returned to the field for a Week 10 game against the Cincinnati Bengals in 2024, he was not 100%. That was clear in his play. He looked slower, and his elusiveness was not as electric as it was in 2023.
The 23-year-old played just five games last year, rushing the ball 15 times for 30 yards, an underwhelming two yards per carry. He had not fully recovered from his torn ACL, and it was ultimately a lost season. However, 2025 is expected to resemble his rookie campaign.
All the talk surrounding Mitchell this offseason has been about how fast he looks. He mentioned he feels faster than he was when he first landed in Baltimore. If he can bring that pace to an already stacked running back room, the trio of him, Derrick Henry, and Justice Hill should be the most unstoppable in the NFL again.
That talented room could also limit him, though. While his game-breaking ability demands reps, Henry is always a candidate to reach 2,000 rushing yards, and Hill may have had the most impactful campaign of his career in 2024.
Offensive coordinator Todd Monken put it bluntly at training camp on Saturday. He spoke to the media about Baltimore’s high-powered offense and discussed Mitchell's role in 2025.
“He’s got to fight to get touches. Two years ago, we didn’t have Derrick Henry. Let’s just say it like it is. It’s a fight to get touches in the backfield. Justice Hill is an established, outstanding football player. Now we got Derrick. So that third running back position is fighting for reps,” Monken said. “We’re in a different place than we were a year ago, but it’s exciting to see him be up to speed in the first four days.”
Keaton Mitchell has a big challenge ahead
The 2025 situation is a harsh reality for Mitchell. Although he has proven himself as a key contributor, Baltimore’s offense has too many mouths to feed. Along with the rushing attack, the passing offense is growing into one of the most feared units in football.
Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, DeAndre Hopkins, Mark Andrews, and Isaiah Likely are all pass catchers who need targets. Devontez Walker and Charlie Kolar could also break out this year, so for a player like Mitchell, every rep counts if he wants to carve out a substantial role.
Those reps could also come on special teams, though, an area where Mitchell could be the team’s go-to guy. The former East Carolina star has a desire to be the kickoff return man, and he could be the perfect fit there.
Monken’s comments were realistic, but could also motivate Mitchell as the team revs up training camp activities. He is one of the most exciting players on the team, and the coaches must find a way to get the ball in his hands.
