Colorado Star LaJohntay Wester Turns Heads at Ravens OTAs, Emerging as Breakout Candidate in Crowded Wide Receiver Competition Room
LaJohntay Wester didn’t take the traditional path to NFL stardom, but that hasn’t stopped him from making one of the biggest impressions at the Baltimore Ravens’ organized team activities (OTAs). The former Florida Atlantic standout, who transferred to Colorado for his final collegiate season under Deion Sanders, arrived in the NFL with little fanfare compared to higher-profile prospects. Yet here he is—creating consistent buzz, earning reps with the starters, and drawing praise from coaches and teammates alike.
Wester’s rise through OTAs is not a fluke. It’s the result of his relentless work ethic, elite route-running ability, and deceptive quickness. While the Ravens are often associated with a dominant defense and a run-heavy offense, they’ve been actively reshaping their passing attack around star quarterback Lamar Jackson. That means more speed, more separation, and more creativity from their receiving corps—and Wester is proving to be a perfect fit.
When Baltimore signed LaJohntay Wester as an undrafted free agent, few expected him to make this kind of impact so quickly. Standing at just 5-foot-10, Wester doesn’t have the prototypical NFL frame. What he lacks in size, though, he more than makes up for with explosiveness, football IQ, and an uncanny ability to get open. During OTAs, those traits have been on full display. Whether it’s in 7-on-7 drills, red-zone situations, or full team reps, Wester has consistently found ways to flash.
Wester’s college journey is itself a testament to resilience and determination. After three prolific seasons at Florida Atlantic—where he became one of the most productive receivers in school history—he made the bold decision to transfer to Colorado in 2023. It was a move that brought him into the national spotlight, playing under Deion Sanders and competing against top-tier competition. In Boulder, Wester didn’t just blend in—he thrived, leading the Buffaloes in receptions and proving he could produce against Power Five defenses.
His performance at Colorado was marked by precision and consistency. Wester wasn’t just a slot receiver with quick feet; he was a reliable target on third downs, a threat in space, and a surprisingly tough blocker. Those qualities translated well into pre-draft evaluations, and though he was ultimately not selected in April, the Ravens wasted no time scooping him up once the draft concluded. From the start, Baltimore’s coaching staff believed they had something special.
As OTAs kicked off, Wester quickly made his presence known. On the first day of open media access, he caught multiple passes during team drills, including a highlight-reel snag in the corner of the end zone against tight coverage. Reporters noted his sharp route-running and ability to change direction without losing speed. Coaches noted his attention to detail and film-room habits. Veterans noted his fearlessness in traffic and his eagerness to learn.
Wide receivers coach Greg Lewis spoke highly of Wester’s early progress, stating, “He’s the kind of guy you love to coach. He listens, he works hard, and he competes every snap. It’s early, but he’s putting himself in position to earn real opportunities.”
That’s high praise in a Ravens receiving room that includes veterans like Rashod Bateman, Nelson Agholor, and Zay Flowers, as well as intriguing young talent like Devontez Walker and Tylan Wallace. The Ravens have struggled in years past to field a consistent receiving corps, but the 2025 season is expected to feature more spread formations, quicker reads, and yards-after-catch opportunities. Wester could be the kind of utility weapon that thrives in those scenarios.
Lamar Jackson himself has taken notice of Wester’s abilities. In a recent interview, Jackson mentioned how impressed he’s been with Wester’s energy and chemistry with the offense. “He’s always where he needs to be,” Jackson said. “He finds the holes, he gives you a good target, and he’s got quick feet. That’s what you need in this league.”
What makes Wester particularly valuable is his potential as a special teams contributor. In college, he was also an electric returner, showcasing vision, acceleration, and toughness. With NFL roster spots at a premium, his ability to contribute on special teams could be his ticket to securing a place on the 53-man roster. During special teams drills at OTAs, Wester has reportedly handled punt and kickoff return reps with confidence, drawing comparisons to former Ravens return ace Jacoby Jones.
Special teams coordinator Chris Horton highlighted Wester’s potential, saying, “He’s got great instincts and ball skills in the return game. We’re looking at a guy who could help us in multiple phases.”
That versatility is exactly what the Ravens value in fringe roster players—and Wester is anything but a fringe talent right now. He’s fighting not just for a roster spot, but for a meaningful role in a revamped Ravens offense.
Offensive coordinator Todd Monken, entering his second year with Baltimore, has emphasized tempo, spacing, and unpredictability. That plays right into Wester’s strengths. As a slot receiver who can win on option routes, bubble screens, and quick slants, Wester provides a change of pace that complements the Ravens’ vertical threats. His football intelligence also allows him to adjust to coverage in real time, a skill that’s rare for rookies and highly valued in Monken’s system.
Another element working in Wester’s favor is his fit in the locker room. Despite being a newcomer, he has drawn respect for his humility, competitiveness, and team-first mentality. He’s not trying to be flashy or make headlines—he’s just trying to earn a spot. That quiet confidence and relentless drive have already won over teammates who have seen plenty of talented players flame out by not taking the process seriously.
Veteran wideout Nelson Agholor praised Wester’s attitude, noting, “He’s not just fast, he’s focused. Some young guys come in thinking they already made it. He comes in thinking he’s got to earn everything. That’s the right mindset.”
As the Ravens prepare for training camp, Wester’s trajectory will be one of the most closely watched storylines. The early hype from OTAs is promising, but the real test will come when the pads go on. Training camp will bring more physicality, more complex coverages, and more scrutiny. Wester will have to prove he can handle press coverage, hold his own in run blocking, and maintain consistency under pressure.
Still, everything Wester has shown so far indicates he’s ready for the challenge. He’s already battled through doubters, changed schools, adapted to new systems, and elevated his game at every level. Now, on the doorstep of his NFL dream, he’s making it clear that he belongs.
If Wester continues this momentum into training camp and preseason games, it’s not out of the question to see him not only make the roster, but earn rotational snaps on offense and return duties on special teams. For a player who didn’t hear his name called on draft night, that would be a remarkable achievement—but for those who have been watching closely, it wouldn’t be a surprise at all.
The Ravens may have found a hidden gem in LaJohntay Wester. In a league where every inch matters, every route is a test, and every rep is an audition, Wester is passing with flying colors. He’s not just surviving OTAs—he’s standing out. And in Baltimore, where the standard is high and competition is fierce, that’s the first step toward something much bigger.
The story of LaJohntay Wester is still being written. But if the early chapters are any indication, it’s going to be a story worth reading.
