Baltimore Ravens: The legacy of Lardarius Webb

BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 3: Free Safety Lardarius Webb
BALTIMORE, MD - DECEMBER 3: Free Safety Lardarius Webb /
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An ACL injury may have derailed what could’ve been an terrific career for Lardarius Webb, but he’ll always be a favorite for Baltimore Ravens fans.

The Baltimore Ravens truly have been spoiled with talent in their short 25 seasons of franchise history. When it comes to cornerback, guys like Chris McAlister and Duane Starks are undoubtedly at the top of the list. Lost in the conversation of those two and other fan favorites like Samari Rolle is Lardarius Webb.

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In his prime, Lardarius Webb was one of the best of the best. A common theme among Ravens corners in recent history, i.e. Jimmy Smith, is being overlooked by the fans. Smith has yet to earn a Pro Bowl nod and in Webb’s career he never got one, either.

Though an unfortunate ACL tear in the 2012 season derailed his career, he still had a very successful and fruitful stint in Baltimore. Before he tore his ACL, Lardarius Webb was having a masterful 2011 season; one which actually garnered some serious media attention. Webb was unfortunately snubbed of a Pro Bowl selection, although he was highly thought of entering 2012.

That ACL tear ruined everything that Webb had going from him. He went from emerging star to wondering if he’d ever be the same again. But, Webb spit in the face of adversity and carried on his career for five more seasons as a reliable fixture of the Ravens secondary.

Webb’s transition to safety prolonged his career even longer, and his fantastic coverage skills translated smoothly to his new position. Lardarius Webb would end his nine seasons in Baltimore with 467 tackles, 15 interceptions, and 91 defended passes.

A forgotten aspect of Lardarius Webb’s career was his skills as a special team’s ace. Webb recorded 1,685 return yards and two touchdowns (one punt return, one kick return) on special teams with Baltimore. That ACL tear messed up Webb’s knee pretty bad, because he was never the same, agile player he was prior.

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Lardarius Webb’s career was a remarkable one. He never left Baltimore and remained loyal to the soil for all of it. The kid from Nicholls State became a third round pick and left a massive impact on the Baltimore Ravens franchise. Not only is Webb an all-time beloved Raven, but he should be a shoe-in for the ring of honor. From all of Ravens Flock, thank you, Lardarius Webb, for your services to this team and the community. You will forever be loved and appreciated by the best fans in the world!