Anthony Levine not only providing depth on defense, but versatility

Anthony Levine is proving to be one of the most versatile players on the Baltimore Ravens defense.

There’s no question the Baltimore Ravens come into this offseason with a stacked defense. After having one of the best in the league last season, they made some significant additions through free agency and the NFL Draft.

While much of the focus is on the big names, one player that goes under the radar is Anthony Levine. Officially listed on the Ravens roster as a defensive back and linebacker, Levine is a jack of all trades on the football field.

Levine, who went undrafted out Tennessee State, signed with the Packers coming into the NFL. He spent two seasons on the team’s practice squad before being cut. He then found a home  with the Ravens in September of 2012 and was promoted to the active roster shortly after.

When you look at Levine’s versatility, it truly is incredible. He started out on special teams and has been a vital part of that unit. Last season he led them in snap counts with 363. To put that in perspective, he was out on the field 78.74% of the time the Ravens were on special teams. 

Along with special teams, Levine has been a utility player on Dean Pee’s defense. He’s played just about every position on that side of the ball. Everything from safety to cornerback to linebacker, Levine has been there. Most of it has been in a backup role, but when give a chance to start, he played well.

Levine’s versatility was well on display when the Ravens broke out the dime package against the Redskins last Thursday.

Levine came in on a third down and got to the quarterback for a sack. He finished the night with two tackles, one sack and one tackle for a loss. 

Pees talked about Levine’s versatility in yesterday’s press conference saying:

"It is great value. If you really think about it, we have several guys that have done that over the years. You have Anthony doing that at safety; he has played nickel for us. I think one game he might have even played corner for us. He has played dime… When you have a couple of guys like that, it is just invaluable. I think sometimes that is overseen."

The Bottom Line

Peas is certainly right in that regard. That kind of versatility is really something that people don’t talk about. With the injuries the Ravens have had this offseason, having that depth is important, no matter the position. With It’s exactly why the Ravens signed Levine to a three-year extension this offseason. He’ll back up inside linebacker and safety if needed.

Next: Baltimore Ravens 53-man roster prediction 3.0

The Baltimore Ravens defense is one of the best in the NFL, not because of one or two players, but because of the depth they have. Levine is certainly part of that equation. It’s not common you find a player than can fill a number of needs on the defense. He’s not only providing depth on defense, but versatility as well.

Expect to see him all over the field this upcoming season.