Georgia Tech Football: Darren Waller Signs Contract with Ravens

Darren Waller, drafted in the 6^th round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens, signed his rookie contract, worth $2.39 million for 4 years.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets

The deal includes a signing bonus worth just over $100,000. His base salary begins at $435,000 for his first season, gradually rising to $705,000 during the contract’s final year. Unfortunately, none of his annual salary is guaranteed, but given a strong performance, Waller will accrue the max value.

Baltimore GM Ozzie Newsome has already pinpointed the 6’6’’, 238 pound receiver as a key element in the Ravens’ offensive scheme.

Waller is going to give Joe Flacco a huge target to throw to in the red zone. This was Ozzie Newsome’s take in a post draft news conference via ajc.com’s piece by Ken Sugiura.

“To get a big receiver, another big target for [Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco], we know how tough it is facing receivers that are that type of size in the red area. He brings all of that.”

– Ozzie Newsome

Despite being recruited as a defensive back in 2011, Waller seamlessly transitioned to wide receiver during his sophomore season.

Nov 1, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets wide receiver Darren Waller (88) celebrates his touchdown catch with teammates in the second quarter of their game against the Virginia Cavaliers at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

With impressive size, Waller is also an intriguing prospect at tight end. His versatility proved to be a considerable selling point during the scouting process.

The wideout amassed 971 yards and nine touchdown off 51 receptions during his career with the Jackets.

Waller displayed both remarkable vertical speed and catching ability in traffic. Invited to this year’s combine, Waller ran an impressive 4.46 40 yard dash. His 11.35 60 yard shuttle time topped all receivers at the event.

Waller is joined by DeAndre Smelter as receivers from Georgia Tech drafted this year.

Smelter, picked in the 4^th round by the San Francisco 49ers, similarly presents a potent red zone and deep ball threat.

Despite playing in the option offense that relies heavily on the run, both receivers distinguished themselves against several top defenses.

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The Ravens, who also drafted receiver Breshad Perriman from Central Florida and tight end Maxx Williams from Minnesota, keyed in the passing game as a critical need for improvement.

With contract negotiations complete, Waller can focus on refining his talents during training camp.

Analysis from NFL.com identified route running and separation from defensive backs as Waller’s weaknesses.

By working alongside fellow rookies, as well as veterans including 5-time Pro Bowler Steve Smith Sr., Waller has a valuable opportunity to learn from other proven talents.