Level Of Need For Linebackers: 9
The Ravens are set at inside linebacker. C.J. Mosley was voted to the Pro Bowl, Zach Orr should have been. When we look at the outside linebacker position though, its another story. Terrell Suggs is nearing the end of his career. The Ravens will most likely cut Elvis Dumervil. While we have seen Matt Judon and Za’Darius Smith show flashes, we don’t know if they can be the future of the position.
The Ravens had a top 10 defense this season but sacks were not frequently part of that success. Baltimore needs pass rushers badly. The franchise needs to find the next Terrell Suggs. Baltimore has always had great edge players. From Peter Boulware, Adalius Thomas and Jarrett Johnson, this has been the Ravens bread and butter. Ozzie Newsome needs to find difference makers this offseason. A pass rusher would be a sensible place to start.
The Ravens have to go up against Ben Roethlisberger and the Steelers twice per season. The best way to beat the Steelers is putting Roethlisberger on the ground. Le’Veon Bell is tough to stop as well. That’s why outside linebacker is such an important position. A dominant edge rusher could be the difference between a brutal divisional loss, and a glorious victory.