Baltimore Beatdown on Nick Vannett

Vannett's 81.3 run-blocking grade (team-high) signals reliable replacement for injured Smythe

Nick Vannett stepped into a larger role following Durham Smythe's season-ending Achilles injury, providing much-needed stability as a run blocker. Promoted from the practice squad to the active 53-man roster, Vannett answered the call with an encouraging performance against Atlanta across 19 snaps (2 receiving, 17 run blocking) and earned an 81.3 run-blocking grade, team-high. His usage was straightforward, with offensive coordinator Declan Doyle clearly intending to utilize Vannett as an additional blocker in Baltimore's rushing attack. On multiple reps, Vannett worked in combination with neighboring offensive linemen before climbing to the second level of the defense, sealing off linebackers and creating rushing lanes for Derrick Henry. His functional play strength was particularly noticeable, consistently establishing leverage and using his hips to turn defenders away from the ball carrier. With Smythe unavailable for the remainder of the season, Vannett's ability to help establish the rushing attack and create running lanes for Henry could become increasingly valuable as the season moves toward December and January.

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