LaJohntay Wester may have flown under the radar during the NFL Draft, but he’s no stranger to fighting for respect
Whether it’s earning a scholarship, transferring to a Power Five program, or now proving himself in the NFL, Wester has consistently risen to the occasion.
The Ravens are known for discovering hidden gems, and Wester might just be their next one. With a strong training camp and continued development, don’t be surprised if his name is called on Sundays sooner rather than later.
The Ravens may have gotten a steal in LaJohntay Wester, a player whose draft position doesn’t reflect his talent or impact potential.
While he may not have generated pre-draft headlines, he’s already earning attention where it matters—on the field and in the hearts of fans.
If Baltimore utilizes him properly, Wester could exceed all expectations and become one of the most talked-about rookies from the 2025 class.
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LaJohntay Wester: The Ravens’ Underrated Draft Gem
While the 2025 NFL Draft buzz mostly revolved around headline-making stars like Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter, the Baltimore Ravens quietly made a move that could pay significant dividends down the line.1
They selected wide receiver LaJohntay Wester, a former Colorado standout, in the sixth round—a pick that drew both praise and concern from fans and analysts alike.
Despite being overshadowed by his more high-profile teammates, Wester had an incredibly productive final collegiate season, finishing with 74 receptions, 931 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns.
Now, the conversation is shifting, especially after the Ravens shared a video of Wester displaying impressive skills during offseason workouts.
Flock Ravens Flock 🦅💜#OverlyBlessed #FlockUp
— lajohntay la’jay wester (@la_wester) April 28, 2025
Flying Under the Radar in Boulder
Wester’s time at Colorado didn’t generate the same spotlight as Sanders or Hunter, but those who watched closely knew he was a crucial piece of the Buffaloes’ offense.
A precise route-runner with strong hands and a competitive edge, Wester routinely made tough catches in traffic and moved the chains on key downs.
One reason Wester may have been overlooked is the overwhelming attention that the Colorado program received for its more flamboyant personalities and Coach Deion Sanders’ media presence.
In such a star-driven environment, it’s easy for a consistent and efficient player like Wester to become undervalued.
Yet, his stats and film told a different story—one of a player who could contribute meaningfully at the next level.
LaJohntay Wester: Draft Day Surprise
A Sixth-Round Steal
When Wester’s name was finally called by the Ravens in the sixth round, many draft watchers considered it a sleeper pick.2
Though projected by some to go in the fourth or fifth rounds, he slipped into the later stages, likely due to concerns about his size and top-end speed.
But the Ravens have long had success finding value in the later rounds, especially when it comes to wide receivers and utility players. Baltimore’s offense thrives on versatility, and Wester fits that mold.
He joins a team that has recently made efforts to revamp its receiving corps, and while he won’t be expected to start immediately, he could carve out a significant role if he continues to impress in offseason activities.
Social Media Buzz
The Ravens’ official X (formerly Twitter) account recently posted a video of Wester going through catching drills.
The footage highlighted his soft hands, body control, and concentration. It didn’t take long for fans to take notice.
“.@la_wester’s got something 𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖑 special,” the Ravens captioned the post.
Fans filled the comments section with support, enthusiasm, and hope that Wester will be more than just a special teams contributor. Many believe the Ravens may have found a diamond in the rough.
“He’s capable of being their WR3 which sounds crazy,” one user commented.
“Don’t sleep. Kid has some great hands and is physical when it comes to contested catches,” another added.
Others expressed concern that Wester would be pigeonholed as merely a punt returner, fearing that his offensive skills might be underutilized.
More Than a Return Specialist
One recurring theme in the fan reaction is the fear that Wester will be limited to special teams duties, particularly as a punt and kick returner.
While Wester certainly possesses the agility and vision to thrive in that role, fans who followed his college career know he brings much more to the table.
His ability to track the ball, win at the catch point, and make defenders miss in space makes him a legitimate offensive threat. He consistently proved capable of making difficult catches in tight coverage, and his YAC (yards after catch) potential was evident.
“If they wanted a punt returner, they should’ve drafted Jimmy Horn. LaJohntay was one of the best receivers in the draft,” a passionate fan posted.
Clearly, there is a sense among observers that Wester’s talents could be wasted if he is not given a fair shot at contributing on offense.
A Fit in the Ravens’ Offensive Scheme
Baltimore’s offense, under coordinator Todd Monken, emphasizes flexibility and dynamic playmakers who can create mismatches.
With Lamar Jackson at quarterback, the Ravens like to keep defenses guessing. That could work to Wester’s advantage.
Wester could fill a hybrid slot receiver role, lining up inside and occasionally motioning into the backfield for gadget plays or jet sweeps.
His quickness and shiftiness make him a tough cover in space, and he could thrive in short-yardage and red-zone situations.
Given the recent injuries the Ravens have faced at the wide receiver position, having a depth piece like Wester—who can also contribute on special teams—is not just smart; it’s necessary.
LaJohntay Wester: From Overlooked to Overachiever
A Chip on His Shoulder
What makes Wester particularly intriguing is the chip on his shoulder. Players taken in the later rounds often play with something to prove.3
That fire can drive them to outwork their peers and force coaches to take notice.
In his interviews and social media interactions, Wester comes off as humble yet confident. He understands his path isn’t the traditional one, but he’s ready to fight for a roster spot and prove he belongs.
The Ravens have had success with late-round picks and undrafted players before—guys like Gus Edwards and Patrick Ricard worked their way into major roles. Wester could be next.
College Production Can’t Be Ignored
Statistically speaking, Wester stacks up well with many of the top wideouts in his draft class.
His 931 yards and 10 touchdowns are not just solid—they are impressive, especially considering the competition for targets in Colorado’s pass-heavy offense.
He displayed versatility by playing multiple roles in the offense and maintained a strong catch rate throughout the season.
Unlike some high-volume college receivers who rely purely on schemed touches, Wester created separation on his own and earned trust from his quarterbacks.
Ravens’ Wide Receiver Room: A Competitive Landscape
Wester will be entering a competitive wide receiver room in Baltimore, headlined by players like Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Nelson Agholor.
With veterans ahead of him and undrafted free agents pushing from behind, he’ll need to impress during training camp and preseason.
However, if his practice footage is any indication, Wester is already turning heads. Whether it’s on special teams, in the slot, or in four-wide sets, he’ll have opportunities to showcase his skill set.
A Potential Fan Favorite in the Making
Wester’s style of play—gritty, dynamic, and aggressive—resonates with fans. The early reactions on social media indicate that the Ravens faithful are already invested in his journey.
Should he make the final roster and get meaningful snaps, he could quickly become a fan favorite.
In a city like Baltimore that appreciates underdog stories and hard-nosed football, Wester’s path from late-round pick to productive contributor would fit perfectly into the team’s identity.
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LaJohntay Wester: From Underrated to Unleashed
The NFL is filled with stories of players who rise through the ranks by sheer determination, adaptability, and undeniable talent. LaJohntay Wester is one of them.
The rookie wide receiver might not have had the gaudiest stats during his college career, but if you dig beneath the surface, his story is one of promise and perseverance.
Early Days at Florida Atlantic: Laying the Foundation
Wester’s collegiate journey began at Florida Atlantic University (FAU), where he spent four seasons honing his craft.
While the Owls weren’t always in the national spotlight, Wester quietly emerged as one of the program’s most reliable targets.
He demonstrated quickness off the line, sharp route running, and an innate ability to create separation—even when defenses knew he was the primary weapon.
At FAU, Wester wasn’t just a possession receiver. He evolved into a versatile weapon—used in jet sweeps, special teams, and screen plays to capitalize on his elusiveness.
His final season with the Owls saw him lead the team in receptions, proving he could shoulder WR1 responsibilities. But despite his individual success, Wester sought a greater challenge and exposure.
Transfer to Colorado: Embracing the Spotlight
Wester’s move to Colorado brought him under the national microscope. Joining Deion Sanders’ high-profile program meant more media attention, better competition, and a chance to showcase his skills against top-tier defenders. However, the Buffaloes’ wide receiver room was crowded and extremely talented.
With stars like Travis Hunter, Jimmy Horn Jr., and Vanderbilt transfer Will Sheppard commanding attention, Wester found himself fighting for targets in an offense that often leaned on deep shots and big plays.
He wasn’t always the first option, nor the most utilized, but his value was undeniable.
Even when the stat sheet didn’t reflect it, Wester’s presence created space for others. His precise routes forced defenders to stay honest, and his ability to operate out of the slot made him a key piece in Colorado’s offensive schemes.
LaJohntay Wester: Fitting into Baltimore’s System
The Ravens’ offense under offensive coordinator Todd Monken is evolving. With Lamar Jackson at quarterback, the team has long emphasized a balanced attack that mixes power running with explosive passing.
However, the 2024 season marked a transition to more spread formations and a greater emphasis on wide receiver play.
Baltimore boasts established names like Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and veteran Nelson Agholor. But there is room for a shifty, intelligent slot receiver who can navigate defenses with surgical precision. That’s where Wester could carve out a niche.
In Monken’s system, Wester’s skill set—short-area quickness, ability to read zones, and reliable hands—could make him a valuable option on third downs and red-zone opportunities.
His experience in crowded receiver rooms has prepared him to maximize every snap, a trait that could set him apart during training camp.
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What Scouts Love About Wester
Despite not being a household name, Wester caught the attention of NFL scouts during pre-draft evaluations. While some criticized his size—he stands at just around 5’11″ and 180 pounds—many lauded his burst off the line, lateral agility, and football IQ.
Scouts appreciated that he didn’t shy away from physical play, and he routinely found ways to beat press coverage with hand technique and body control.
His tape from FAU, especially, showed a player who understood leverage and spacing—two critical traits for slot receivers.
Additionally, his special teams background gave him added value. In an NFL world where the bottom of the roster often hinges on special teams performance, Wester’s return experience could be his secret weapon to making the 53-man roster.
Competing with Confidence
If Wester wants to stick with the Ravens, he’ll have to outperform several other fringe receivers fighting for limited spots. But competition is nothing new to him.
Whether it was climbing the depth chart at FAU or battling for reps at Colorado, Wester has always answered the challenge.
He enters his rookie season with a chip on his shoulder—and that might be the most important trait of all. Players who’ve had to earn everything often bring a different kind of hunger.
That edge could be the difference-maker as the Ravens evaluate their wide receiver rotation heading into preseason.
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