Keaton Mitchell, who set the NFL on fire during his rookie year in 2023 with explosive runs and breakaway speed, is making a strong case for a full comeback after a severe knee injury. Now more than a year and a half past his ACL tear, the Ravens’ dynamic running back is showing impressive speed and agility during organized team activities (OTAs) as he enters his third NFL season.
Mitchell’s performance in the early stages of the Ravens’ offseason workouts has stood out as he displays enhanced burst and his characteristic ability to evade defenders. With the keenness of a player reborn, he approaches the season hopeful about reclaiming his role as a game-changing playmaker.
Early Success and Sudden Setback in Mitchell’s Rookie Year
Mitchell’s rookie campaign captured league attention when, as an undrafted rookie, he recorded an extraordinary 20.99 mph on a 40-yard touchdown run—the fastest speed recorded by any Ravens ball carrier that year. Averaging 8.4 yards per rush on 47 carries, he led all NFL runners with at least a dozen attempts in yards per carry, signaling a bright future as a key offensive weapon for Baltimore.
However, the momentum halted abruptly on December 17, 2023. While nearly breaking free for a long run against Jacksonville, Mitchell was clipped by a diving defender, forcing a harsh leg plant that resulted in an ACL tear. This injury ended his breakout season prematurely and initiated a challenging journey back to the field.
Physical and Mental Challenges on the Road to Recovery
Rehabilitation was an uphill battle marked by both physical pain and emotional isolation. Mitchell described the recovery process as a solitary struggle, emphasizing the mental grind required to regain his former abilities.
“It’s just you, yourself, and the grind,”
he said.
Despite these difficulties, his commitment to returning stronger has been unwavering. Last season, he cautiously re-entered game action but was limited to just 61 snaps over five games, carrying the ball 15 times for 30 yards as the team managed his workload carefully.
They were just holding me back and telling me to chill. ‘You go out there and do what you can do,’
Mitchell remarked.
But hopefully this year I can help the team out in different ways.
Competition and Opportunities within the Ravens’ Backfield
The Ravens’ running back corps includes standout players Derrick Henry and Justice Hill, with the latter excelling as a third-down receiving threat and pass protector. This depth means snaps are limited, but Mitchell’s explosive style could still make a significant impact despite fewer opportunities.
Mitchell’s impact extends beyond rushing, as shown by his kick return averages—he gained 31.2 yards per return last season on five attempts, offering Baltimore another weapon in special teams. In OTAs, his agility and speed were on display again as he executed a precise double move on a rail route and took the corner on sweeps with the speed and authority reminiscent of his rookie year.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh noted Mitchell’s progress, pointing out the confidence and fluidity returning to his game.
It looked like he had the speed and then just the ability to adjust and track,
Harbaugh said.
Last year, probably, you could tell he was thinking through the knee [injury] a little bit it seemed like. I haven’t seen any of that so far this spring, so it’s good to see.
Additional Standout Performers in Ravens OTAs
Other players have also shone during the Ravens’ early offseason practices. Veteran wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins quickly demonstrated why he remains an important asset, making contested catches that highlight his physical style and quickness. His speed ranks among the fastest in the Ravens’ receiving group.
Quarterback Lamar Jackson impressed with sharp passing, connecting on deep and precise throws to multiple receivers, driving a crisp and dynamic offensive flow in practice. Adding muscle and strength appears to have improved outside linebacker Odafe Oweh without sacrificing his explosiveness off the edge, while second-year linebacker Adisa Isaac returned healthy and poised to compete for playing time.
Offensive guard Ben Cleveland is making a push to secure a starting role at left guard, battling Andrew Vorhees as the team ramps up its offensive line competition. On the receiving end, Devontez Walker and LaJohntay Wester showed potential for bigger roles, with Walker hauling in an impressive touchdown catch and Wester grabbing a long touchdown pass despite a juggling catch.
Defensively, middle linebacker Roquan Smith and cornerback Nate Wiggins displayed strong form and improvement. Smith showcased his coverage skills with a long-range pass breakup, while Wiggins added offseason muscle, positioning himself as a potential breakout star in the secondary.
Mitchell’s Renewed Gratitude and Determined Mindset
Mitchell’s journey back to health has transformed him both physically and personally. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to play football after his injury, recognizing the fragility of his career.
The emotions are crazy. They’re everywhere. I finally get a full offseason and I feel great,
Mitchell said.
Just very humble right now knowing that this game could be taken away from you. You don’t know. The fact that I’m able to come back and be able to play this game again, I’m just very humble and thankful, and just talk to God every day before I go out there, and I appreciate him.
He credits his teammates, especially fellow third-year players Tavius Robinson and Trenton Simpson, for their support during his darkest moments. Mitchell approaches this new chapter with the mindset of starting fresh, ready to prove his capabilities once again.
I tell guys a lot that talk to me that I’m starting all over,
he said.
They don’t even know what I can do. I’m just starting all over again, proving what I can do and taking it day by day.
Looking Ahead to a Breakout Season for Mitchell
With the NFL season approaching, all eyes are on Keaton Mitchell’s comeback after major knee injury, as he aims to regain his explosive form and make meaningful contributions to the Ravens’ offense. His physical growth, refined skills, and renewed mentality suggest a player ready to seize every opportunity despite the crowded backfield.
If Mitchell can maintain his current trajectory, his presence may deepen Baltimore’s offensive versatility and special teams effectiveness. The confidence displayed during OTAs indicates a promising return to the player who nearly led the Ravens’ rushing attack in 2023 before injury intervened, making fans eager to witness the next chapter of his NFL career.