Ravens rookie could unlock the best version of Marlon Humphrey

There's a reasonable argument that can be made. It supports the theory that the Baltimore Ravens probably aren’t moving on from Marlon Humphrey. Let’s state that before we continue or say anything else. Recently, following the rookie minicamp, Ravens Wire listed Humphrey among Baltimore’s safest roster locks. Honestly, that shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone. He remains one of the franchise’s emotional leaders and one of the defense’s smartest players. When healthy, still one of football’s more underrated defensive backs.

There is, however, one noticeable flaw in his game. It's impossible to ignore the challenges he faced while playing in the slot last season. That conversation became the centerpiece of a recent theory presented by ESPN's Ben Solak.

In his recent write-up, Humphrey, a veteran on the hot seat after the draft, made the list of players facing undeniable pressure. He didn't do so because he’s suddenly washed, so to speak. He did so, in part, because Baltimore may finally have the personnel necessary to adjust how he’s being used. As Solak mentions, last season, Humphrey logged 264 snaps in the slot when three cornerbacks were part of the defensive formation. The numbers and eyeball test suggest the results were shaky, especially compared to his work outside.

Humphrey posted a significantly stronger coverage success rate on the boundary than he did inside, where quicker receivers and constant traffic can stress even elite corners as they age. Here's something notable worth mentioning. That isn't unusual.

Cornerbacks approaching 30 often begin transitioning into more specialized roles. The conversation about athletic erosion isn’t always comfortable, but it’s real and necessary. That’s where rookie Chandler Rivers enters the conversation. Baltimore selected him in the fourth round of the most recent draft. They did so because of exactly this type of potential fit.

Rivers is undersized, but also twitchy. He's aggressive and naturally suited for nickel responsibilities. Solak even compared him stylistically to D'Angelo Ponds. If Rivers develops quickly, the Ravens suddenly gain flexibility, and more importantly, that would allow Humphrey to return to where he still thrives most: outside corner. That is, unless Baltimore wants to be creative and move him to safety. No, this isn’t a demotion. That’s the important part that many will misunderstand. This isn’t about Humphrey losing relevance. It’s about Baltimore maximizing him. The Ravens don’t need Humphrey to do everything anymore. They just need him to do the right things at a high level. He will still be one of Baltimore’s most important defenders, but thanks to Chandler Rivers, the Ravens might finally have the freedom to deploy him in a way that extends both his effectiveness and his career.

This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens may finally have an ideal role for Marlon Humphrey