Will Matt Judon Fill The Courtney Upshaw Role?

Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Grand Valley State defensive lineman Matt Judon participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Grand Valley State defensive lineman Matt Judon participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports

The Ravens may need Matt Judon to become more than a developmental player:

Matt Judon is a rookie out of Grand Valley State that looks like a budding star. When the Ravens selected Judon im the fifth round he was pegged as a developmental player. Judon may have a quick path towards becoming an impact player though.

Related Story: Matt Judon Impresses In His First Preseason Game

Courtney Upshaw signed with the Atlanta Falcons. The Ravens used Upshaw primarily on running downs. His job was to set the edge and shut down the outside running game. With Upshaw, any pass rush he provided was gravy. The Ravens used Elvis Dumervil as the fearsome pass rusher.

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Judon did a great job in the first preseason game. Taking advantage of his time on the field, Judon led the Ravens with seven tackles and a sack. Judon proved that he could set the edge and rush the passer. Judon displayed ability against his fellow back ups. He still has much to prove, but he’s off to a great start.

The Ravens may have found an upgrade to Upshaw in the long run. Judon has the same beefy build. Judon is 6’3″ and 275 pounds. Upshaw was 6’2″ and 272 pounds when he came into the league. Judon has more explosiveness than Upshaw ever dreamed of having. Remember, Judon had a 4.73 second 40 yard dash and a 35 inch vertical jump at the NFL Combine.

It seems like Judon is the perfect player to build into a Raven. The rookie linebacker has an incredible motor that never stops. Judon is a tough player who revels in the physicality of the game. Most importantly, Judon can give the Ravens the best of both worlds. He has the strength of Upshaw and he can also rush the quarterback.

Next: 3 Things To Watch In The Ravens Second Preseason Game

Don’t be surprised if Judon becomes a pivotal part of the Ravens defense. Dumervil and Suggs aren’t getting any younger. Dumervil is also at his best when you use him primarily as a pass rusher. Judon and Dumervil should have a similar rotation as the Ravens used when Upshaw was here. The Ravens need Judon to develop, but it’s going to have to be on the job training.

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