Ravens Sixth-Round Pick Tabbed As Possible Surprise in 2025

The Baltimore Ravens selected wide receiver LaJohntay Wester in the sixth round of the 2025 NFL Draft to address their punt return deficiencies, with USA Today Ravens Wire identifying him as a potential surprise contributor. ESPN analyst Jamison Hensley noted that while Wester may see limited offensive snaps, he directly fills Baltimore's need for a return specialist after the team ranked 16th in punt return average (9.7 yards) using four different players last season.

Wester demonstrated exceptional return abilities at Colorado, averaging 12.2 yards per punt return during his final collegiate season, including a 76-yard touchdown. His acceleration metrics at the Shrine Bowl (6.2 yards per second squared) ranked as the second-fastest offensive performance in the event's partnership with Zebra Sports. The 5-foot-10, 163-pound receiver also earned Honorable Mention All-Big 12 honors in 2025 after starting 12 games for Colorado, extending his streak to 50 consecutive games with at least one reception.

NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein highlighted Wester's "speed and above-average production" in his draft profile, projecting him as an undersized slot target best suited for longer routes. While acknowledging concerns about Wester's limited catch radius and 2023 drops, Zierlein emphasized his big-play potential both as a slot receiver and punt returner. Wester additionally has ties to Baltimore's staff, having played under current Ravens running backs coach Willie Taggart at Florida Atlantic.