Carson Vinson Is Earning a Bigger Role With Ravens

Vinson made an impact immediately after halftime. On the first play of the third quarter, Derrick Henry took a toss from Lamar Jackson and ran right for four yards. The gain itself was modest, but Vinson helped make it possible. After reporting as eligible, he engaged defensive end Laiatu Latu and helped create the lane Henry used to get downhill.

Vinson ended up serving as an extra blocker six times throughout the game, and that role could carry over against New Orleans. According to NFL Pro, the Saints used nickel personnel 56 times against Detroit, compared with 23 snaps in base and four in dime. Detroit took advantage on the ground, with Jahmyr Gibbs rushing 29 times for 156 yards.

That does not guarantee Baltimore will find the same success, but Vinson gives the Ravens another big body to deploy against a defense that keeps extra defensive backs on the field. If Baltimore continues leaning on jumbo personnel, those heavier looks could help create running lanes for Derrick Henry and give Vinson another opportunity to show why Minter considers him one of the team’s most improved players.