The Ravens want playmakers to step up on offense, and they may have found a strong candidate.
In his two games since moving to the active roster, wide receiver Jeremy Ross has made the most of his opportunities when he gets the ball in his hands. He's shown speed and elusiveness as a return man and receiver, and he's made a case to get more involved in the offense.
"He has done obviously a very good job with the return game, but he also has given us a spark with the times that he has been in there," Offensive Coordinator Marc Trestman said. "We'll continue to move him along and give him reps."
Ross was pulled up from practice squad to primarily be a returner, and he quickly took over kick and run return duties. He's also shown his chops as a pass catcher. In just 38 snaps the last two weeks, Ross has caught five passes for 58 yards. He also has one carry for 2 yards.
"When I get in the game, I want to be a factor," Ross said. "I want to make some really good plays for the team. Any time I get an opportunity, I'm trying to do that."
The solid showing in limited action may lead to Ross seeing more time alongside wide receiver Steve Smith Sr.
Kamar Aiken and Marlon Brown have been the Ravens' top targets behind Smith, but Ross is challenging them for snaps. Brown's production in the passing game has been minimal this year, and it has declined in recent weeks. He has four catches for 18 yards in the last three games, and just 84 receiving yards on the year.
Ross has been more productive in his two games on the 53-man squad, and he also gives the Ravens a speed element on the edge.
"I think Jeremy has come in and done a great job of being consistent, being where he's supposed to be," quarterback Joe Flacco said. "It has been a somewhat smooth transition throwing the ball to him, because he knows what he's doing, and he has a good feel about him."
Another player who the Ravens could also look to get more involved offensively is wide receiver Chris Givens. The Ravens traded for him three weeks ago, and he has just two catches for 18 yards in his two games.
He has rare speed that can take a top off a defense, and the Ravens may take some more shots his direction.
"I'm starting to really get comfortable with Chris – throwing the ball out there for him and letting him go get it," Flacco said.
