5 Ravens Ready to Breakout in 2016

Oct 1, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh (L) and linebacker Za'Darius Smith (90) celebrate after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field. The Ravens won 23-20 in overtime. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 1, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh (L) and linebacker Za'Darius Smith (90) celebrate after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field. The Ravens won 23-20 in overtime. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
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Oct 1, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh (L) and linebacker Za'Darius Smith (90) celebrate after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field. The Ravens won 23-20 in overtime. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 1, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh (L) and linebacker Za’Darius Smith (90) celebrate after defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field. The Ravens won 23-20 in overtime. Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Here is a look at five players that will take the next step for the Ravens:

Heading into 2016, the Ravens look for better fortune and increased contribution from younger players, particularly on defense. The team was decimated by injuries last season, paving the way for young and unproven players to have prominent roles that they, for the most part, weren’t expected or ready for.

However, trial by fire in a lost season can actually lead to a major positive impact from younger players in 2016. Starting NFL experience isn’t easy to come by and helps players learn to prepare mentally and physically.

While we hope for the health of the players this upcoming season, anything can happen. Assuming that these players stay healthy, they will be candidates to have a breakout year statistically in 2016.

Next: Zach Orr

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