Ravens Backfield Preview: Henry and the Rookies

Ravens Backfield Outlook

The Baltimore Ravens enter camp with one of the NFL’s most imposing running back groups, anchored by Derrick Henry. Behind the Hall‑of‑Future‑Fame back, the depth chart features a blend of experience and upside. The room includes Justice Hill’s veteran instincts, Rasheen Ali’s developmental traits, and three rookies with distinct profiles. How the pieces fit will determine the offense’s flexibility throughout a long season.

Derrick Henry: The Engine

Henry remains the tone‑setter at 6‑2 and 252 pounds, heading into his 11th NFL season. He rushed 307 times for 1,595 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2025, averaging 5.2 yards per carry. His power opens lanes for Lamar Jackson and creates space for play‑action passes. Keeping Henry explosive and healthy for the playoff push hinges on the quality of the runners behind him.

Justice Hill: The Veteran Shield

Hill, listed at 5‑10 and 205 pounds, brings eighth‑season grit and reliable special‑teams play. Though his 2025 rushing totals were modest, his value shines in pass protection and third‑down duties. Hill knows Baltimore’s system, giving the offense a steady complement to Henry. His experience may keep him safe on the roster, but rookies could challenge his role.

Rasheen Ali: Waiting to Break Out

Ali, a 5‑11, 210‑pound third‑year player, has limited offensive touches so far, with only seven carries for 24 yards in 2025. His speed and special‑teams contributions remain his primary assets. The former Marshall standout must prove he can handle the kicking game and earn a roster spot. With Henry and Hill already locked in, Ali’s path depends on preseason production.

Adam Randall: The Big Rookie

Randall, a 6‑3, 232‑pound fifth‑round pick from Clemson, offers a rare size for a running back. He spent much of his college career as a wide receiver, giving him a unique receiving background. The Ravens see potential in his ability to run through contact while also creating mismatches in the passing game. His draft investment should protect him early, though he’ll need time to learn the nuances of the position.

Dontae McMillan: Production Power

McMillan, a 5‑10, 203‑pound Eastern Michigan product, rushed 177 times for 1,014 yards and four touchdowns in 2025, averaging 5.7 yards per carry. He posted five 100‑yard games and once became the first player in EMU history with 100+ rushing and 100+ receiving yards in a single contest. His all‑purpose skill set could earn him a roster spot if he adds special‑teams value and reliable protection. McMillan’s proven output gives him a solid chance to survive roster cuts.

Elijah Tau‑Tolliver: The Developing Wild Card

Tau‑Tolliver, a 6‑0, 204‑pound rookie from Michigan State, lacks the pedigree of his teammates but brings raw burst and vision. He must shine in practice and preseason games to earn a spot behind the established backs. The Ravens are evaluating him for pass protection, ball security, and special‑teams willingness. If he flashes in camp, he could move from a long shot to a practice‑squad priority.

How Many Backs Will Baltimore Keep

Henry is a lock, and Hill’s experience should secure him a roster spot. Randall’s draft capital and upside give him a strong case for a guarantee. Ali, McMillan, and Tau‑Tolliver will compete for the remaining three or four roster positions. Special‑teams contributions and preseason performance will likely decide the final three players. The Ravens could end up with four or five running backs depending on injuries and coaching preferences.

What It Means for the Offense

The backfield is built around Henry’s bruising identity, but the supporting cast shapes how often Jackson is protected and how the passing game unfolds. A healthy Henry combined with versatile complementary backs opens up play‑action and tempo. Depth also keeps the offense fresh across a 17‑game schedule. The strength of the room will be measured by its ability to shield the star back and sustain drives. Ultimately, the RB group’s cohesion could be the difference between a playoff run and a mid‑season stumble.