2015 Baltimore Ravens Roster Breakdown: Defensive Line

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Dec 28, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Connor Shaw (9) fumbles as he is sacked by Baltimore Ravens nose tackle Brandon Williams (98) during the first quarter at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

Starters: Brandon Williams, Timmy Jernigan, Chris Canty

Jernigan earned the right to take the place of Haloti Ngata following a very promising rookie year. Finishing the year as the 14th ranked 3-4 DE, Jernigan was only a few clicks behind Ngata (9th) in Pro Football Focus’ ratings. He’s only going to get better in 2015 if he sustains health.

Williams was another big breakout star last season at the nose, finishing 10th in PFF’s ratings. He was drawing the ultimate compliment, double teams, as the year progressed. Williams finished 2014 with 48 tackles, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, a half sack, and dominated against the run.

The Ravens finished with the leagues best rushing defense, in fact, allowing a mere 41.0 yards per game.

Canty returns for another season with the Ravens after an unsuccessful attempt at free agency. If nothing else, he provides a veteran presence and can still be an effective run stopper. I do expect him to find some stiff competition this offseason, however.

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