Matthew Hibner made a strong first impression for the Baltimore Ravens, shining in his NFL preseason debut and showing why the rookie could be a real NFL contender. The tight end made the most of his time on the field, running just 12 routes but coming away with five receptions on all five targets for 61 yards. That's an impressive amount of production considering how limited his route total was.
Hibner averaged 5.08 yards per route run, another number that highlights just how effective he was when given a chance to contribute. Rather than needing a large workload to make a difference, the rookie found ways to produce with the chances he received. Sports news: Vikings Have 2 Rookies Absolutely Thriving in the Preseason His performance was enough to earn a 92.6 PFF grade, putting him among the most highly graded rookies from the opening week of the preseason.
It was also the highest grade among offensive rookies during that opening week. For Baltimore, that's a good sign from a player who could continue to earn more time. Hibner's ability to produce efficiently as a receiver gives the Ravens another young option to watch.
The 133rd overall pick in this year's NFL Draft couldn't have asked for a much better introduction to the league. His first preseason appearance showed that he can make an impact without needing a high volume of routes. More sports: Cowboys Rookie Already Making an Impact on Team PFF's Gordon McGuinness also included Hibner among his players to watch after the opening week of preseason action.
That recognition adds to an already strong first impression for the Ravens rookie. Hibner still has more to prove as he works through the rest of the preseason, but his debut certainly gives Baltimore something to embrace. Five catches for 61 yards on just 12 routes is difficult to ignore, especially when paired with his 5.08 yards per route run.
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