2017 NFL Draft: Baltimore Ravens Best Case Scenario
3rd Round #74 Overall DT Larry Ogunjobi NC Charlotte
The Timmy Jernigan trade leaves made sense because he disappeared from the stat line after game nine of last season. To that point, Jernigan looked like a Pro Bowler with 26 tackles, 5 sacks, and 3 passes defended. He completely sealed the game against the Jaguars in three straight plays. The last seven games, he only recorded 5 tackles.
In place of Jernigan, the Baltimore Ravens need to bring in someone to compete with the other young lineman on the roster. Larry Ogunjobi at worst would fit into a rotation with the current players on the team. Overtime, Ogunjobi could become a solid starter in the NFL. His ability to create pressure as an interior lineman makes him a rare commodity.
Currently, Brandon Williams will be flanked by Brent Urban and Willie Henry. The Ravens want to see what this pair of fourth round picks can produce; however, the duo started a combine zero games in their young careers. Bringing in a player of Ogunjobi’s caliber helps solidify the defensive line even if the group is inexperienced. Once he shows up, he gives the Ravens their best pass rusher from the defensive line.
Despite his explosive first step that allows him to get after the quarterback, Ogunjobi’s smaller stature leaves him susceptible to guards with longer reach advantage. That first step is his biggest asset, but at the next level, will that be enough to beat NFL offensive lineman? Plus, his workout at the combine didn’t blow anyone away. It wasn’t bad, but he did nothing to separate himself or elevate his draft stock.
The negatives out of the way, I think watching Ogunjobi line up on the same side with Terrell Suggs would be fun to watch. On passing downs, the opponents must double team one of them, so one of them is making into the backfield.