Baltimore Ravens: 53-Man Roster Prediction
By Joe Serpico
Oct 12, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) and inside linebacker Daryl Smith (51) get pumped up as they work out prior to the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Linebackers (10)
OLB: Terrell Suggs, Elvis Dumervil, Courtney Upshaw, Za’Darius Smith, Steven Means
ILB: C.J. Mosley, Daryl Smith, Albert McClellan, Zach Orr, Arthur Brown
The Ravens have always been known for having a terrific linebacker corps, and have arguably the best starting group in the league. Suggs and Dumervil are a menace on the edge, while Mosley and Smith are very stout up the middle. Three of aforementioned names were named in the NFL Top 100 Players of 2015.
Upshaw is one of those tweeners that can play both outside linebacker and defensive end, and that versatility makes him a key part of the defense. Za’Darius was brought in to rush the passer and has had impressive moments in the preseason. Means has had a terrific offseason also.
It will be interesting to see just how many inside linebackers the Ravens keep aboard. McClellan has earned the role as the primary backup to Smith and Mosley, and excels on special teams as well. Orr is another special team’s specialist and that gives him a leg up on Brown. I am keeping Brown on the roster because I do not think the Ravens give up on the former second-round pick yet.
Next: Cornerbacks