Middle linebacker:
1st | 2nd | 3rd |
Malik Harrison Jake Ryan |
Chris Board | Otaro Alaka |
This position is typically reserved for the bigger linebackers that are more stout against the run. The Ravens tend to ask the middle linebacker to blitz as well, leaving the “WILL” linebacker to handle most of the coverage and chase down outside runs.
Here, Harrison and Ryan will be competing for the starting job. Harrison is more athletic and probably the better player right now but Ryan’s experience gives him an edge in the competition.
After getting a shot at the starting job last season and failing to impress or even really get on the field on defense, Board is solidly in the backup role behind Harrison and Ryan. Alaka was a practice squad player last year and could fight Board for that last linebacker spot on the 53-man roster.