The Baltimore Ravens have been blessed with great talent over their 25-year history in the NFL. When the word “Ravens” get brought up in conversation, many think of the defense that once reigned supreme. Most don’t think of the team’s receiver class, which however has not been bad. The latest player to make headlines on the team is a tight end, and a very good one.
On Sunday against the Los Angeles Rams, tight end Mark Andrews surpassed former wide receiver Michael Jackson for most receiving yards in a single-season in team history.
Andrews notched the record on an 18 yard catch from quarterback Tyler Huntley in the second quarter. Andrews would have 1,202 receiving yards on the season.
Andrews has become the team’s favorite target no matter who is taking snaps at quarterback. The Pro Bowl tight end has produced three consecutive games of over 100 receiving yards and produced three touchdowns in that span. Andrews currently has five games of over 100 receiving yards this season. With players like wide receivers Marquise Brown, Rashod Bateman and Sammy Watkins on the team, it makes the record that much more impressive.
Jackson held the team’s receiving record of 1,201 receiving yards of 25-years dating back to the Ravens inaugural season of 1996. He became one of the team’s best weapons on offense for the three seasons he played in Baltimore.
Jackson tragically died in a motorcycle accident in 2017. The former receiver would no doubt be amazed to see the feat that Andrews accomplished on Sunday.
Leading up to Sunday’s game, Andrews told reporters that he was aware of the record and that it would be a “huge honor” to be the record holder.
“I’m definitely aware,” Andrews said. “I think I’m like 15 yards away, that’s pretty cool. That’s going to be a huge honor if I’m able to do that.”
“I’m definitely aware. I think I’m like 15 yards away, that’s pretty cool… That’s going to be a huge honor if I’m able to do that.” @Mandrews_81 on approaching the Ravens receiving record pic.twitter.com/BCf2t3RL6h
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) December 29, 2021
Andrews could also break another record before the regular-season expires. He entered Week 17 just needing 11 catches to pass Derrick Mason’s mark of 103 receptions in 2007. With one game left to go, Andrews could hold both records of receptions and receiving yards on the team.
Andrews has arguably established himself as one of the best tight ends in the league. He will most certainly go down as one of the best tight ends in team history and may one day find himself a gold jacket in Canton, Ohio.