The Baltimore Ravens have addressed almost every weakness except at middle linebacker. They are running out of options at this point of the offseason.
The Ravens have always been known for having great play from their inside backers.Ray Lewisis the most celebrated middle linebacker in franchise history, but he is not the only one to enjoy success in Baltimore.
Bart Scottwas a force next to Lewis. So wasEd Hartwell. Once Ray hung them up, it was up toDaryl SmithandC.J. Mosleyto keep the tradition alive. That is until theRavens parted ways with Smith this offseason.
General ManagerOzzie Newsomehas done a terrific job of addressing every major need this offseason. They needed players in the secondary so they addedEric Weddle,Jerraud Powersand rookiesTavon YoungandMaurice Canady. Playmakers on offense so they brought inMike WallaceandBen Watson. The pass rush should be better with three picks in the draft used on pass rushers.
The only hole that still remains is at middle linebacker. The Ravens have a stud in Mosley, but with Smith out the door, they need someone to start alongside him. The current makeup of the roster hasArthur Brown, a 2013 second-round draft choice that has been a failure, and four undrafted free agents that will battle for the spot next to Mosley.
More fromThe Baltimore Wire
- What other Baltimore Orioles Offseason Storylines will you be interested in seeing?
- Baltimore Orioles to Face Numerous Playoff Contenders Down the Stretch
- Baltimore Orioles Showing Encouraging Signs During Recent Wins
- The Baltimore Orioles and the Expanded September Roster
- Maryland Football: Terps honor Jordan McNair, beat Longhorns 34-29
Albert McClellansigned a three-year deal this offseason so the team will likely keep him around this season.Zach Orrwas the Ravens best inside linebacker last season, according to Pro Football Focus, but has not sold me yet. They also have Brennan Beyer andCavellis Luckettin the mix. While everyone likes to root for undrafted players, they usually are not the most talented the players.
That’s what makes us wonder why not one middle linebacker with talent has been added to the group.
Heading into the draft, many wanted the team to draft UCLA linebackerMyles Jack. The Ravens passed on him not once, but twice, and failed to draft an inside backer. They brought in Luckett, who does have great speed with coverage ability. That’s the type of player the defense needs, but again, there has to be a reason why he went undrafted.
It makes little sense that nothing has been done to address the position. The Ravens used the second phase of free agency to add Powers, Vladimir Ducasse andJosh Johnson. They didn’t desperately need another corner, guard or quarterback as much as a linebacker.
I am already on the record of saying thatOzzie should giveDeMeco Ryans‘ agent a phone call. Ryans is one of the few experienced players available that could step right in and produce. If not Ryan, get someone who can play in coverage. For as terrific as Mosley has been, he is a liability in the passing game.
Next: Ravens Breaking the Rules with CBA Infraction
Everyone is about to find out just how importantDaryl Smithwas to this team. Maybe Ozzie has something else in the works that we do not know about, but right now, the heart of the Ravens defense is missing a key piece.
Add us as a preferred source onGoogleLoading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations