Ravens Keaton Mitchell 'Has Earned' Bigger Offensive Role, Says Todd Monken

Baltimore Ravens rookie running back Keaton Mitchell had a breakout game against the Seattle Seahawks, and Todd Monken says he's earned a bigger role on offense as a result.

As far as breakout NFL games go, Baltimore Ravens rookie running back Keaton Mitchell had one against the Seattle Seahawks in a 37-3 beatdown at M&T Bank Stadium.

Mitchell, in just his third NFL game, would rush for 138 yards and a touchdown on nine carries that included a 60-yard run in the fourth quarter.

For offensive coordinator Todd Monken, Mitchell took his opportunity with both hands and in doing so, has earned a bigger role on offense going forward.

“I think like with any player when you get your opportunity you take advantage of it and that leads to more opportunities," Monken said. "I think that's the simplest way to put in anything in life, if you're given an opportunity and you're successful at it you're going to get more opportunities you deserve it you earned that, he's earned that.”

With the Ravens leading the NFL in rushing yards per game (160.3) with Gus Edwards (478), Lamar Jackson (440), and Justice Hill (251) all doing their part, now we can add Mitchell into the mix as Baltimore has yet another rushing weapon.

Ravens rookie Keaton Mitchell (34) had a breakout game against the Seahawks / Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports

While it is only one game, and now Mitchell needs to show consistency in his game, Monken couldn't be happier for the rookie, who has dealt with his fair share of setbacks already in his young career.

“You know, happy for him had a pretty good preseason, then got hurt, and then we started to get him a little bit involved, then got hurt again," Monken said. "So it was fun to see the guys were excited for him, he's a great kid works hard and you can see that by our guys how excited they were for him.”

With the Cleveland Browns next on the schedule for the Ravens, a chance has presented itself to extend their lead at the top of the AFC North, but the running game could struggle as Cleveland only allows 89 rushing yards a game this season.

But with Jackson, Edwards and now Mitchell, Baltimore could be the one team that Cleveland struggles to stop on the ground.

Mitchell took his opportunity against the Seahawks and if he gets his chance against the Browns, we have little doubt that he won't take that chance as well.