Rasheen Ali Bio
Rasheen Ali (born February 16, 2001) is an American professional football running back and kickoff returner for the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Marshall Thundering Herd from 2020 to 2023 and was selected by the Ravens in the fifth round (165th overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft. Ali has built a reputation as an explosive dual-threat back with exceptional return ability and a proven track record of scoring touchdowns at every level of competition.
Early Life and Background
Rasheen Ali was born on February 16, 2001, in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended Shaker Heights High School in Shaker Heights, Ohio, where he developed into a highly regarded football prospect. As a high school player, Ali earned a three-star recruit rating, demonstrating the potential that would eventually carry him to the collegiate level.
Despite receiving interest from other programs, Ali made the decision to commit to play college football at Marshall University over an offer from Hampton. This choice would prove instrumental in shaping his development as a player and setting the foundation for his professional career.
Path to American Football
Upon arriving at Marshall, Ali immediately began adapting to the college game during his true freshman season in 2020. He appeared in six games, logging 22 rushing yards on five carries while also contributing 76 kick return yards. These early contributions showcased his versatility and ability to impact games in multiple facets.
His dedication to excellence extended beyond football, as Ali also represented the Thundering Herd on the track team during the 2022 offseason. This multi-sport approach helped him develop additional speed and athleticism that translated to improved performance on the field.
Rasheen Ali Career
Marshall Thundering Herd (2020–2023)
The 2021 season marked Ali’s breakout year, as he emerged as one of the nation’s premier running backs. He finished the season with 1,401 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns on 250 carries, dominating Conference USA competition. His exceptional performance earned him numerous accolades, including placement on the Maxwell Football Club’s Freshman of the Year Watch List, Team MVP honors, First-team All-Conference USA selection, and FWAA Freshman All-American recognition.
The 2022 season presented significant challenges, as Ali sat out most of the year due to an injury and received a medical redshirt. He returned for the final three games of the season, finishing with 273 rushing yards and one touchdown. Despite the limited action, he was named MVP of the 2022 Myrtle Beach Bowl after compiling 92 rushing yards and a touchdown on 15 carries in the victory.
Ali continued to build momentum during the 2023 season, highlighted by a spectacular Week 4 performance against Virginia Tech where he rushed for 180 yards and two touchdowns to secure the win. This effort earned him Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Week honors. To close his collegiate career, he was selected to participate in the 2024 Senior Bowl, though he unfortunately ruptured his biceps tendon during Senior Bowl practices and was unable to play in the game itself.
Baltimore Ravens Era (2024–Present)
Ali was selected by the Baltimore Ravens in the fifth round with the 165th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. His transition to the professional ranks began with immediate challenges, as he was placed on injured reserve on September 5 due to a neck injury sustained early in training camp.
He was activated from injured reserve on October 12 and made his NFL debut the following week. His first professional appearance came exclusively on special teams during Week 6 against the Washington Commanders, representing his entry into NFL competition. As his rookie season progressed, his role gradually expanded to include offensive snaps.
During Week 11 of his rookie campaign, Ali saw his first opportunities on first-team plays against the Cincinnati Bengals. He caught his first targeted pass in the NFL for 15 yards in that contest, marking another milestone in his professional development. His progression from special teams contributor to offensive weapon demonstrated his adaptability and potential within the Ravens’ offense.
Driving Style and Strengths
Ali possesses a rare combination of speed, elusiveness, and tackle-breaking ability that makes him effective in multiple offensive schemes. His experience as both a running back and kickoff returner speaks to his versatility and value on special teams. At 5 feet 11 inches and 210 pounds, he has the size to handle between-the-tackles runs while maintaining the explosiveness to break long gains on the perimeter.
Notable Events and Milestones
Among Ali’s most significant career moments are his 23-touchdown season at Marshall in 2021, his MVP performance in the 2022 Myrtle Beach Bowl, and his selection to play in the 2024 Senior Bowl despite the injury that would ultimately prevent him from participating. His NFL debut against Washington and his first professional reception versus Cincinnati represent the foundation of his professional career trajectory.
Rasheen Ali Career Wins
Throughout his football career spanning high school, college, and his early NFL tenure, Ali has accumulated impressive statistics across multiple categories. His 23-touchdown season at Marshall remains one of the most productive single seasons in Thundering Herd history, while his special teams contributions have added significant value to his overall impact.
Marshall Thundering Herd Highlights
During his four seasons at Marshall from 2020 to 2023, Ali established himself as one of the most dynamic players in program history. His most productive campaign came in 2021 when he rushed for 1,401 yards and 23 touchdowns, earning First-team All-Conference USA honors and FWAA Freshman All-American recognition. He followed this with a strong 2023 season that included a Second-team All-Sun Belt selection after Marshall moved conferences. His collegiate career totals include multiple 100-yard rushing games and consistent production as both a runner and return specialist.
Other Wins and Performances
Beyond his regular-season accomplishments, Ali’s MVP performance in the 2022 Myrtle Beach Bowl showcased his ability to deliver in clutch situations. His 180-yard, two-touchdown performance against Virginia Tech in 2023 demonstrated his capacity to take over games when the team needed him most. These performances underscore his history of rising to the occasion against quality competition.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season represents a pivotal year in Rasheen Ali’s development as he enters his second year with the Baltimore Ravens. After a rookie season that saw him recover from injury and gradually earn more responsibilities on offense, Ali is positioned to take on an expanded role within the team’s offensive scheme. His combination of rushing ability and receiving skills makes him a valuable asset in various personnel groupings.
The Ravens’ coaching staff has shown confidence in Ali’s development, providing him opportunities to contribute in both running and passing situations. His special teams experience continues to keep him on the field in multiple phases, increasing his value to the team. The connection with his offensive line and the team’s running game philosophy should provide opportunities for continued production.
Looking ahead, Ali aims to build upon his limited rookie statistics and establish himself as a consistent contributor for the Ravens. With another year of NFL experience, improved health, and offseason preparation, he has the tools necessary to make a significant impact during the 2025 campaign and beyond.