Malik Cunningham makes wide receiver room for Baltimore Ravens in post-Beckham strategy
The Baltimore Ravens have come up with an innovative solution to strengthen their receiving corps following the exit of Odell Beckham Jr.
Ex-New England Patriots quarterback Malik Cunningham has been training as a wide receiver in Organized Team Activities (OTAs) this week, as the former Louisville star aims to secure a spot on the team.
Throughout his university career, Cunningham was a dynamic playmaker, utilising his exceptional athletic abilities, but this hasn’t yet translated to the NFL level. He fluctuated on and off the Patriots’ roster last season after signing as an undrafted free agent, sitting behind Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe on the depth chart.
The 25 year old was signed from the Pats’ practice squad late in the season by the Ravens and he played four snaps in the regular-season finale as head coach John Harbaugh rested starter Lamar Jackson in preparation for the playoffs.
Cunningham is back with the Ravens ahead of training camp and a new season has seen him switch to a new position, being officially listed as a wide receiver on the depth chart. Team reporter Ryan Mink said Cunningham got extra reps in Thursday’s OTAs session, with Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Nelson Agholor not in action.
Cunningham certainly made his presence felt, pulling in a series of impressive catches as he aims to secure a spot on the final roster. The Ravens are in dire need of assistance at the skill positions; Flowers had an outstanding rookie season and tight end Mark Andrews is among the league’s elite.
However, with Beckham’s move to the Miami Dolphins, Baltimore’s receivers’ room is looking rather thin. Cunningham stepping up as a playmaker to add more depth to the rotation would be a welcome boost as the team strives for another deep postseason run.
