Between safety Brandon Jones and wide receivers Devin Duvernay and Collin Johnson, it’s tough to pick which of the three walked into the best situation with their new team.
Before we get started, let’s first take a glance at where each former Texas player was selected in the 2020 NFL Draft.
- Brandon Jones – No. 70 overall pick – Round 3 – Miami Dolphins
- Devin Duvernay – No. 92 overall pick – Round 3 – Baltimore Ravens
- Collin Johnson – No. 165 overall pick – Round 5 – Jacksonville Jaguars
Each of the three can immediately compete for playing time. While they fill a void and bring their own unique attributes to each NFL organization, one particularly stands out from the rest.
The Dolphins were very active in bolstering their secondary this offseason, but Jones could still serve as a rotational piece while also appearing on special teams. Johnson provides a big-bodied threat for young quarterback Gardner Minshew, but he’ll have to work his way up the depth chart behind DJ Chark Jr., Chris Conley, and Dede Westbrook.
Duvernay landed into the best situation for his strengths. In fact, you can go ahead and pencil him in as the Ravens starting slot receiver. It’s no secret that Baltimore loves to utilize speed. Duvernay is not only a speedster, he brings consistency, strong hands, and yards after the catch. He will provide a reliable security blanket for quarterback Lamar Jackson.
The Ravens were heavily interested in Duvernay for several months ahead of the NFL Draft. Although he was projected to land in Baltimore in many mock drafts, head coach John Harbaugh was shocked and elated when they finally got the chance to select him in the third round.
Duvernay’s talent is enough to secure a significant role in their offense, but the lack of depth at receiver provides an extra boost. It’s a young receiving corps too, where Marquise Brown and Myles Boykin are each coming off of their rookie seasons. Duvernay will also be competing alongside six-year veteran Willie Snead.
The former Longhorn will provide more of a high-volume short-area target in Baltimore’s dangerous offense. After all, Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta compared Duvernay’s style of play to Steve Smith Sr.
If you’re wondering which former Texas player will make the biggest splash in the NFL throughout their rookie season, the safest bet would be on Duvernay.