Ravens Ex-WR Prospect To Work Out For Patriots

Might a former Raven be flying north for the 2023 NFL season?

Former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver prospect Slade Bolden is scheduled to work out for the New England Patriots, per a Tuesday morning ESPN report.

Bolden was rumored to be on New England’s radar during the 2022 NFL Draft scouting process, with many believing that the 5-11, 189-pounder would fit well within the Pats’ offense. Yet, the Patriots passed on Bolden, both in the Draft, as well as a potential undrafted free agent.

The ex-Alabama Crimson Tide standout instead signed with the Ravens. However, the rookie suffered a sports hernia in August, which landed him on injured reserve. Bolden was released by Baltimore in October.

Despite a relatively thin pro resume, Bolden’s scheduled workout provides him with the opportunity to reignite his NFL career. 

Bolden projects as am effective offensive option from the slot. In his final season with Alabama, he compiled 42 receptions for 408 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed once when lining up in the quarterback spot. Bolden has also proven himself to be an effective weapon on special teams. He tallied 14 punt returns for 99 yards to go with five kickoff returns for a total of 67 yards. 

With receivers Sammy Watkins and Demarcus Robinson headed for free agency, Baltimore will address their need for depth at the position. Though emerging pass-catchers Rashod Bateman, Devin Duvernay, and James Proche provide optimism for the future, the team could use an infusion of speed.

Additionally, the departure of former offensive coordinator Greg Roman will likely mean a shift in philosophy for the Ravens' offensive schemes. While newly-installed OC Todd Monken is quite adept at scheming to maximize the skill set of mobile quarterbacks, he is at his best when devising an overall strategy involving third-down efficiency and red zone scoring strikes.

In light of the uncertainty surrounding quarterback Jackson’s future in Baltimore, the Ravens are almost assured to seek an upgrade at the position this season. 

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