2. Brent Urban
There’s never been a question about Brent Urban’s ability. Looking at size alone, he towers over just about any opponent at 6-7, 290+ pounds. The problem has been staying on the field. Urban has appeared in just 25 games over four seasons due to a plethora of injuries. He was one of the defenses’ most dominant players through the first three games of the season before suffering a season-ending Lisfranc foot injury.
A free agent this offseason, the Ravens took a chance and re-signed Urban a one-year, $1.1 million deal. With the potential he possesses, Urban can have a breakout season IF he stays on the field.
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We’ve only really seen Urban in small sample sizes but those sample sizes have been impressive. Urban’s length up front is extremely crucial. It not only gives the Ravens a presence in the pass rush but Urban can reach and block passes at the line of scrimmage without even having to jump.
Defensive line depth can’t be stressed enough. Urban’s and Brandon Williams‘ injuries early last season completely decimated the defensive interior. One of the top run defenses’ played like Swiss cheese, allowing opposing running backs to have their way up and down the field. The front line of Urban, Williams and Michael Pierce is something to be excited about heading into a new season.
As mentioned before, health plays a key factor and if available for all 16 games, Urban could very well finish as a top defensive performer this season.