Ravens Rookie Zay Flowers Impresses in First Preseason Game, Indicates a Promising Future
In a highly anticipated moment for Baltimore Ravens fans, rookie wide receiver Zay Flowers made his NFL game debut on Saturday night at M&T Bank Stadium. Although the Ravens emerged victorious against the Philadelphia Eagles with a 20-19 win, Flowers didn’t record any catches in the preseason matchup. However, he did manage to showcase a glimpse of the trouble he can cause opposing defenses.
Flowers drew two defensive penalties and demonstrated his blocking abilities, contributing to the Ravens’ second-quarter touchdown. Clearly, Flowers takes immense pride in his performance, stating, It’s football, and I love playing football. I want to try to be as complete in every aspect of the game as I can.
The former Boston College standout expressed his excitement at getting the opportunity to step onto the field, even though star quarterback Lamar Jackson and most of the established starters were absent from the game. Flowers described his emotions, stating, I was super excited to the point that I didn’t even really know what to do. It was fun to experience for the first time.
Having accumulated an impressive 1,077 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns during his final college season, Flowers acknowledged the stark contrast between preparing for a college football game and a professional one. He admitted that warming up by himself was a new experience, sharing, I kept running around catching the ball. In college, you warm up with the team. That was my first time trying to warm myself up.
Flowers acknowledged the difference in speed between college and the NFL, but his confidence shone through as he confidently proclaimed, but I can handle it. With joint practices against the Washington Commanders scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday at the Under Armour Performance Center in Owings Mills, Flowers will have another opportunity to showcase his skills.
Head coach John Harbaugh eagerly anticipates Flowers’ growth and the trouble he will create for opposing defenses throughout his career. Harbaugh praised the rookie, emphasizing his exceptional footwork, acceleration, and change of direction. He highlighted the challenge Flowers poses to the defense, saying, The defense has to match that. That’s what good players do. I’m excited to see him grow.
As the Ravens’ preseason progresses, fans are eagerly awaiting more opportunities for Flowers to shine. With his speed, agility, and dedication to improving, Zay Flowers could be a valuable asset to the team in the coming seasons. Ravens supporters have every reason to be excited about the promising future ahead for this gifted rookie.
