Former Colorado WR LaJohntay Wester wastes no time making big splash in the NFL

It took former Colorado WR LaJohntay Wester little time to make a big first impression for the Baltimore Ravens in his preseason debut. As a sixth-round pick, Wester was far from guaranteed to make the Ravens' roster, but his special teams breakout on Thursday night just busted the door wide open.

Wester made a play in his first punt return opportunity against the Colts, returning it 17 yards. But it was his second chance with the ball in his hands that showed his game-breaking potential. Wester fielded the punt deep in Baltimore territory, made a couple of guys miss, and then sprinted toward the endzone for an impressive 87-yard touchdown return.

Wester returned a punt for a touchdown last season for Colorado, but was never the Buffaloes' primary punt returner. He also took a punt to the house the previous season at Florida Atlantic and won the AAC's Special Teams Player of the Year Award in 2023. At just 170 pounds, Wester is a bit undersized for an NFL WR, but he may have just found his way onto the Ravens' roster.

LaJohntay Wester's return ability could earn him a spot on the Ravens roster

There are only 53 roster spots in the NFL, so if you're not a starter, which Wester won't be as a rookie sixth-round pick on a loaded Baltimore roster, then you're going to have to carve out a role on special teams. I think we can check that box for the former Colorado WR.

Wester could become an elite NFL return man, and it will be his in to make the Ravens roster. He's capable of becoming a competent NFL WR, too, but he needed a breakthrough on special teams to have a real shot.

Wester was a productive collegiate receiver, producing over 2000 yards and 18 touchdowns in his final two seasons between Florida Atlantic and Colorado.

The Ravens drafted Wester with the 203rd pick in the sixth round of April's draft. After just one preseason game, it looks like Baltimore is happy with their decision, and the Colorado product is well on his way to making an immediate NFL impact.