Baltimore Ravens: which young linebacker will step up?

Sep 26, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas State Bobcats quarterback Tyler Jones (2) is sacked by Houston Cougars linebacker Tyus Bowser (81) during the first quarter at TDECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas State Bobcats quarterback Tyler Jones (2) is sacked by Houston Cougars linebacker Tyus Bowser (81) during the first quarter at TDECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
1 of 4
Next
Sep 26, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas State Bobcats quarterback Tyler Jones (2) is sacked by Houston Cougars linebacker Tyus Bowser (81) during the first quarter at TDECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Texas State Bobcats quarterback Tyler Jones (2) is sacked by Houston Cougars linebacker Tyus Bowser (81) during the first quarter at TDECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Which young linebacker will fill Zachary Orr’s presence in the middle of the Baltimore Ravens defense?

2016 saw undrafted third-year man Zachary Orr step up and lead the Baltimore Ravens in tackles with 132 while also grabbing three interceptions. Unfortunately, his promising career would be ended after his spectacular 2016 due to a neck injury.

Going into the 2017 draft, the man slated to start at inside linebacker next to C.J. Mosley and replace Orr was second-year man Kamalei Correa. That was until the Ravens selected Tyus Bowser in the second round with the 47th overall pick.

More from Ebony Bird

Ironically enough, Bowser was granted 54 as his jersey number, which belonged to Orr in 2016.

Coincidences aside, Bowser will give Correa, who should have the first chance at the starting spot, a serious run for his money to earn the starting gig. Whoever earns the spot will be leaned on heavily to help anchor the middle of the defense and rush the passer on third down blitzes.

The two of them bring unique qualities to the table and have ideal size to play the position well. With no other serious competition for that spot, aside from veteran Albert McClellan, these will likely be the two best options for the Ravens to roll with to start the 2017 season.