Todd Heap: Missing in action?

3 comments

October 8, 1:13 PM

by Phil Macek, Baltimore Ravens Examiner

 

 

So what gives?  Well, Heap's lack of production is a direct result of a change in offensive philosophy.  Heap is blocking more -- a lot more -- and is not the offensive weapon he was under Billick.  There are also rumors floating around that Coach Harbaugh is not enamored with Heap's tendency to be injured.  But in 2005 and 2006, Heap played in all 32 games.  True, last season he was limited to just six games, but still.  It looks like Heap will have to earn his catches this year.  That's a shame, because when he's healthy, Todd Heap is a very good receiving tight end.  He's a good safety valve, a second or third option on obvious passing downs.  He could be a great option for Joe Flacco, especially when the pocket is collapsing.

For whatever reason, though, Harbaugh and Cam Cameron are calling different numbers.  If you look at the stats, Derrick Mason already has a lion's share of the catches this season.  How long will it take opposing defenses to figure out that they need to guard Mason more closely?  That should open the door for Clayton and company.  And Heap. 

Here's hoping that Heap becomes a more prominent receiver in this system.

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