OWINGS MILLS — Ravens coach John Harbaugh is a big fan of Justice Hill.
The versatile 26-year-old running back is one of the team’s hardest workers, comes to work with a smile on his face, and has a high football I.Q. Last month, Hill, a fourth-round pick in 2019, agreed to terms on a two-year, $6 million contract extension to stay in Baltimore.
“[There is] nothing that can break him,” Harbaugh said. “He’s a really smart person, understands the game [and] understands the entire offense. You could probably line him up at every position, and he’d know what to do, for sure – every skill position at least. He probably knows the blocking schemes, too. I just think he’s that kind of a guy …. If we put him out there at special teams right now – and we probably will at some point when we need him – he’ll play great on special teams, too. Everything you ask him to do, he does well.”
Hill is second on the team with 16 receptions for 161 yards and a touchdown in four games. He ranks third in rushing with 765 yards on 14 carries.
Last Sunday night, in a commanding 35-10 victory over the Buffalo Bills, Hill caught all six of his targets for 78 yards and a touchdown. He also provides a perfect “one-two punch” with starter Derrick Henry, who ran for 199 yards against Buffalo.
“They play off each other really well; they run the same plays too, but they also run different plays at times,” Harbaugh said about the complementary duo of Hill and Henry. “I just think it’s a good change of pace.”
Last season, Hill set career highs in yards (387), carries (84), and touchdowns (3) in 16 games. He also has contributed on special teams and has averaged 23.7 yards per return over his four seasons as a returner.
He’s looking to do even better this year and is grateful to remain with the Ravens.
“It’s a great feeling,” Hill said about the extension. “[I] give all thanks to God. It’s been a journey, but it’s been an enjoyable one, and I’m just blessed to be in this situation. It’s been awesome.”
