Feb 20, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Iowa defensive lineman Carl Davis speaks to the media at the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
After an impressive day of offensive player performances, defense finally got to take the stage at the NFL Combine starting on Sunday. For a team that prides itself on stout defensive play, the Baltimore Ravens were surely more than happy to meet with some of the upcoming draft’s top talent on that side of the ball.
Among them, the team met with defensive linemen Bud Dupree, Carl Davis, Za’Darius Smith, and Arik Armstead, tackle Danny Shelton, and ends Shane Ray, Ryan Delaire, and Randy Gregory.
Kentucky’s Bud Dupree is an exciting and explosive player with a background as a basketball player. His production at KU was impressive and he has undeniable upside as a guy who is still learning the game. Dupree is able to win with sheer athleticism but is a little slow to diagnose at this point.
Iowa’s Carl Davis has the size of a first rounder but has not historically been productive as a pass rusher. Davis has a habit of falling off late in games in spite of his potential. Za’Darius Smith is quite the opposite, willingly mixing things up and playing all out when he steps foot on the field. Many scouts don’t feel that Smith has the size to play end in a 3-4 defense, however.
Arik Armstead improved his game considerably last season, exploding on to the scene with elite size and technique. He has the ability to develop into a dominant run stuffing end but is still a little raw in regards to pass rush. Washington’s Danny Shelton is an above average interior pass rusher and dominant run defender who draws comparisons to Vince Wilfork, and is easily one of the most athletic 340 pound guys you’ll ever see.
Next: Continue Reading
More from Ebony Bird
- Will Baltimore Ravens tender Tyler Huntley?
- Ranking 5 teams most likely to trade Baltimore Ravens for Lamar Jackson
- Will these comments impact Lamar Jackson and Baltimore Ravens talks?
- 3 Biggest Needs for Ravens in NFL Draft
- Ravens’ Super Bowl odds stagnant amidst Lamar Jackson trade rumors
Feb 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Missouri defensive lineman Shane Ray talks to the media at the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Missouri’s Shane Ray is an explosive athlete in every sense of the game, possessing incredible power and explosion for a guy who also has great size. There are few flaws in his game, and Ray has the skills and desire to be a dominant pass rusher in the NFL, along with the flexibility to play in any defensive front.
Ryan Delaire has flashed the strength and athleticism that could translate to an effective edge setting 3-4 outside linebacker, but he lacks awareness and plays with an inconsistent motor. In spite of this, Delaire posted solid production at Townson and has the ability to be coached up.
Randy Gregory is a rather raw prospect who possesses elite physical tools, a la Dion Jordan. A 3-4 outside linebacker with a very high ceiling, Gregory is merely some good coaching and some time in the weight room away from becoming a productive NFL player.
Next: Some Ravens prospects were turning heads on Saturday