KeatonMitchell

News: 6 days agoIn his return to action in Thursday's 35-34 win over the Bengals, Mitchell logged two snaps on offense and seven on special teams, Ryan Mink of the Ravens' official site reports.

Spin: It's not surprising that in his first game back since having suffering a torn ACL in his left knee in Week 15 of the 2023 campaign, Mitchell -- who didn't record a carry or target Thursday -- was eased back into the mix. The 22-year-old speedster did return one kickoff for 30 yards versus Cincinnati, and we'd expect him to incrementally see more snaps in the coming weeks. However, with Derrick Henry entrenched as the Ravens' lead back and Justice Hill working in a change-of-pace role, it may be a while before Mitchell sees enough volume to merit fantasy lineup consideration.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: As Mitchell enters his second pro season, eyes will be on his recovery from an ACL injury he suffered in Week 14 last season. When healthy, however, Mitchell should slot into a backup role behind Derrick Henry in Baltimore. Mitchell is an explosive runner with big-play chops, as 25.5% of his carries last season went for 10 or more yards. He can attack the perimeter and shift gears in space. While he saw only 11 targets last season, Mitchell has the traits to be schemed as a target for Lamar Jackson in the pass game, too. He fits as a potential deeper-league flex option once he returns to the field.