Baltimore Ravens State of the Corps: Defensive Line

1 of 2

The Baltimore Ravens had one of the best front sevens in the NFL last year, and the defensive line was a huge part of that. However, that was with Haloti Ngata, the human space-eater, clogging up the middle. He has since been traded to the Lions, leaving the Ravens with Timmy Jernigan and Brandon Williams.

Nov 9, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Timmy Jernigan (97) reacts after sacking Tennessee Titans quarterback Zach Mettenberger (7) at M&T Bank Stadium. The Ravens won 21-7. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

However, that certainly isn’t a bad thing. Last season Williams looked fantastic. He is incredibly strong and was able to close gaps and consume blockers, much like Ngata always has. Jernigan, though it took him longer to make an impact, looked like he was worth a first round pick in lieu of his second round selection.

Jernigan made a name for himself when Ngata was suspended for the last 4 games of the season, racking up 4 tackles and 2 sacks against the Jaguars alone. What’s more, both Jernigan and Williams are young and have plenty of time to develop.

Aside from Williams and Jernigan, we also have Brent Urban, Chris Canty, Christo Bilukidi, Kapron Lewis-Moore, DeAngelo Tyson, Laurence Guy, Casey Walker and Steven Means. In training camp last year, Brent Urban was being praised for his progress and looked to have a secure spot on the 53-man roster. However, he tore his ACL late in August and missed the season.

As the Ravens wait to see if Urban can get back to his old self, he’ll likely be behind Chris Canty at least for the earlier parts of the season, much like Jernigan with Ngata last season. The other guys all had limited impact but provided valuable depth.

Next: Continue Reading

More from Ebony Bird

Home/Ravens News