Chidobe Awuzie May Be Needed In A Bigger Role

Nov 9, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Baltimore Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith (0) reacts with cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (3) during the third quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Chidobe Awuzie May Be Needed In A Bigger Role

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Wesley Dixon | Last updated Oct 8, 2026 4:34 PM ET

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Against the Tennessee Titans, Marlon Humphrey suffered a calf injury and was limited to just eight defensive snaps. That forced Baltimore to lean much more heavily on Chidobe Awuzie, who played 56 snaps in the Ravens’ 24-18 win.

The increased workload came only a few weeks after head coach Jesse Minter admitted Baltimore needed to find more ways to get the veteran cornerback onto the field.

“We need to get him on the field more, and we need to find a way to get him on the field more, whatever role that is. That is definitely, I think, on my radar, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.”

More Responsibility For The Veteran

Humphrey has not played poorly this season, but he has performed below the standard he has established throughout his career. According to Pro Football Focus, his 67.1 overall grade ranks 28th among 103 cornerbacks. He also ranks 77th in receptions allowed, 82nd in receiving yards allowed, and 71st in target rate, according to PlayerProfiler. Elite cornerbacks often discourage quarterbacks from throwing in their direction altogether. That has not been the case with Humphrey this season, as opponents have continued targeting him and finding some success when doing so.

This could make Awuzie’s upcoming reps even more important. He currently trails Humphrey in PFF grade at 61.8, but an expanded role would give Baltimore a better look at whether his slow start is indicative of what he can provide this season or simply the product of limited opportunities.

Awuzie has been in the league too long for this to be seen as a potential breakout. Instead, this could be a chance to see whether Jesse Minter’s defensive scheme can bring more out of the veteran cornerback.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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