“With the 26th pick in the 2015 NFL Draft the Baltimore Ravens select Breshad Perriman, wide receiver from the University of Central Florida,” Roger Goodell announced on April 30th. The Ravens seemed determined to get Joe Flacco some additional options at wide receiver during the draft. In addition to Perriman, the Ravens selected TE Maxx Williams in the 2nd, RB Javorius “Buck” Allen in the 4th round, TE Nick Boyle in the 5th round, and WR Darren Waller in the 6th round.
By drafting Perriman, the Ravens have added a speedy downfield threat to their receiver group. He averaged 20.8 and 20.9 yards per catch the last two seasons at UCF. Similar to Torrey Smith he has the ability to take the top off of opposing defenses. However, he relies on his speed a little too much and needs to develop his route running abilities.
Perriman will have his hands full trying replace guys like Torrey Smith and Jacoby Jones. It is pretty exciting to see one of the fastest receivers in the draft get paired up with one of the biggest arms in the NFL. The big play potential Perriman brings is definitely what put him higher on the Ravens’ draft board.
This quote from Michael Irvin sums up Perriman: “The speed this kid has is incredible. He can absolutely fly. Perriman reminds me a lot of Andre Johnson. When you start talking about money downs, no player made more plays on third and fourth downs than Perriman.” Irvin talks about Perriman’s speed, but his other pro day measurables were equally impressive – while his 40 yard dash was in the 4.25 area, he also hit a vertical of 36.5″, his broad jump was 10 feet, 7 inches, and he benched 18×225.
Fantasy Impact
The Ravens lacked a consistent fantasy Wide Receiver last season. Steve Smith started off strong but tapered off, and Torrey Smith was boom or bust throughout the season. Perriman should be able to take over the number two WR position in Baltimore. Keep Perriman on your radar in Dynasty leagues and as a late round flier in standard or PPR leagues. He should be able to avoid being a total boom or bust player, and if you temper your expectations Perriman he will not disappoint.
Matthew Ishmael is a correspondent for FantasyPros. You can read more from him at his archive or follow him @Ziff05.