We are at the point in the NFL offseason where teams are polishing up their rosters and preparing for training camp. With their mandatory minicamps in the rearview mirror, it looks less likely that some remaining free agents can latch on and find a spot on 53-man rosters. For the Baltimore Ravens, though, they have a glaring need that still needs solving.
The team will head into camp with third-year linebacker Trenton Simpson and rookie Teddye Buchanan battling to start next to Roquan Smith. However, there is uncertainty if they will provide starting-caliber play. Simpson struggled mightily in 2024, eventually getting benched, and Buchanan was a fourth-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Veterans Ja’Whaun Bentley and Eric Kendricks are the best remaining free agents at linebacker. However, if the Ravens want the best bang for their buck while allowing their young linebackers to compete for key snaps, Kyzir White could answer their unsolved question.
Brent Sobleski of Bleacher Report listed six of the best bargain bin free agents still available who could play a pivotal role for teams in 2025. White was listed as one of the best contributors left unsigned. Sobleski wrote:
“He does have the production numbers as a run-and-chase linebacker to warrant strong consideration by those teams still in need of help along the second line of defense.”
“The 29-year-old veteran is reliable. The league’s physicality hasn’t worn him down. In fact, he’s played in all 17 regular-season games during three of the last four campaigns.”
Kyzir White could fit right in with Zach Orr’s defense
Baltimore needs a reliable option next to Smith. Simpson or Buchanan could develop into that, but White could be the perfect replacement if those players prove unworthy of the starting role. He has been a starter for most of his career and was also a key part of some strong defenses, including the 2022 Philadelphia Eagles, who finished 14-3 and made a Super Bowl appearance. Due to this experience, the Ravens should take a flyer on the 2018 fourth-round pick.
If all else fails, White is a competitive body to have for training camp. As a veteran, he could help push the young linebackers. Simpson and Buchanan have already been playing at a million miles an hour and making eye-catching plays during offseason activities, but White could offer a level of consistency that the other two linebackers have yet to show.
The Ravens could also use the depth in general. If White adds starting-level play, that would be outstanding, but the team could use another backup in the room. Linebacker Jake Hummel, signed this offseason, is a special-teams-only player. If any of Smith, Simpson, or Buchanan go down with an injury, the linebacker room would quickly become shallow.
Eric DeCosta and the front office will turn over every stone to find the best option for the team’s linebacker rotation. However, White should be a top priority at the position.