The Baltimore Ravens were able to lock down running back Justice Hill before he got more expensive.
The Ravens signed Hill to a two-year, $6 million extension on September 20, locking in their backup to Derrick Henry.
The timing worked out for the Ravens, as Hill has had two strong performances since then.
The 26-year-old Hill had his best game of the season on Sunday in a 35-10 win over the Buffalo Bills. Hill ran for 18 yards on four carries and caught six passes for 78 yards and a touchdown on Sunday. In addition to his score, which put the Ravens up 21-3 in the first half, Hill had several critical first downs in the game.
After the game, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh joked about the timing of the deal with Hill's recent play.
"Justice Hill has been very integral," Harbaugh said. "I’m just glad we got him re-signed before he broke out these past couple games."
In a Week 3 win over the Dallas Cowboys, Hill also had 54 yards from scrimmage on seven touches.
Hill is often used on passing downs to relieve Henry. However, he has burst, which can make him a dangerous runner when the Ravens' offensive line is blocking as well as they did in Week 4.
Ryan Mink, the Ravens' editorial director, argued the team has the best running back room in the league.
Show me a better 1-2 running back tandem than the one the Ravens have right now.
— Ryan Mink (@ryanmink) September 30, 2024
Derrick Henry is still 👑 and Justice Hill is so damn good.
With Henry currently on a dominant tear and making just $8 million, and Hill effectively spelling him at $3 million per year, it seems the Ravens have also wisely managed their running back depth.
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