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2017 Baltimore Ravens: Top 5 Potential X-Factors

By Chris Schisler

Sep 18, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Danny Woodhead (39) is tackled by Jacksonville Jaguars outside linebacker Telvin Smith (50) during the first quarter of the game at Qualcomm Stadium. Danny Woodhead would be injured on the play. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Chargers running back Danny Woodhead (39) is tackled by Jacksonville Jaguars outside linebacker Telvin Smith (50) during the first quarter of the game at Qualcomm Stadium. Danny Woodhead would be injured on the play. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Brigham Young Cougars defensive lineman Bronson Kaufusi 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; Brigham Young Cougars defensive lineman Bronson Kaufusi participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Bronson Kaufusi:

I don’t think people know how good the Ravens third round pick in the 2016 draft is. Kaufusi missed the entire 2016 season because of an unlucky injury. He is basically the defensive equivalent to Breshad Perriman. Kaufusi was a really productive player, if you go back to his stats at BYU.

In four seasons with the Cougars, he had 25.5 sacks and 43.5 tackles for a loss. He has the size and length to dominate in the trenches. Kaufusi could be a starter on the Ravens already mighty defensive line. Opponents will already be worried about Brandon Williams, who is the highest paid nose guard in the league. They will already be worried about Timmy Jernigan. I think Kaufusi has a chance to surprise opponents with a performance that makes them hurt.

The Ravens depth on the defensive line should get honorable mention as the X-Factor here. Michael Pierce is a beast. Carl Davis has untapped potential. Brent Urban is amazing in short yardage situations. The defensive line depth could keep the best 3-4 defensive line fresh throughout every game.

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