Baltimore Ravens: Midseason Grades for Every Player

Inside Linebackers

Oct 12, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker C.J. Mosley (57) leaps as Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Mike Glennon (8) is tackled in the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

C.J. Mosley – A+

Beast. That’s the only way to adequately describe what C.J. Mosley has been this season. With arms like vines and a motor that never stops running, Mosley has been one of the best run defenders in the entire NFL. His ability to shed blocks has been remarkable, as has his ability to finish plays, having racked up 76 tackles this season.

If there is an area where Mosley has struggled, it’s pass coverage. The middle of the field has been a weakness when the Ravens’ run zone coverage, as Mosley has been slow to react at times. That’s been only a small negative in a season full of positives, though.

Daryl Smith – B

Daryl Smith was one of the bright spots on an up-and-down defense a year ago. With C.J. Mosley stealing the headlines, Smith has been relegated to simply being a solid veteran, a role he has handled quite well. Though not a big playmaker, Smith is steady in coverage and doesn’t make many mistakes. With a rookie next to him, Smith’s steadiness has been big for the Ravens’ defense.