Ravens First Round Scouting Report: C.J. Mosley

It seems clear that most draft experts feel that the Ravens will most likely go Offense in the First Round in an attempt to bolster the weapons surrounding Joe Flacco. However not everyone feels that way, as among the Wide Receivers and Tight Ends, one Inside Linebacker prospect continues to stand out – C.J. Mosley. 

(You can discuss this on the BSL Board here.)

C.J. Mosley

Inside Linebacker

Alabama

Height: 6’2″  Weight: 238 lbs.  40 Time: 4.65 *Projected

Strengths:

-Strong physical tackler who drives through his target

-High Football I.Q.; Rarely makes mental mistakes

-Blend of toughness and athleticism; Excels in pass coverage

Weaknesses:

-Inconsistency getting off blocks

-Inconsistent pass rusher

-Needs to add size to play inside; may be better suited as OLB

2010 Stats: 67 Tackles, .5 Sacks, 10 Pass Deflections, 2 Interceptions

2011 Stats: 36 Tackles, 2 Sacks, 2 Pass Defelctions, 1 Interception

2012 Stats: 107 Tackles, 4 Sacks, 2 Pass Deflections, 2 Interceptions

2013 Stats: 108 Tackles, 0 Sacks, 5 Pass Deflections, 0 Interceptions

Mosley is a multi-season starter with a strong resume playing against some of the best competition in the SEC. He would seem a natural to follow in the footsteps of many of his Crimson Tide alumni as a high draft choice. 

He brings a solid skill set to the table as he can impact a defense defending the run and is able to drop in pass coverage. He has developed into a three-down player and could be suited as the same in the professional ranks. His instincts will separate him from other prospects and he has the speed to cover enough ground be it in man or zone coverage as well as being able to blitz the quarterback.

That speed and agility could mean that he could play inside or outside linebacker and may be able to match-up against the athletic breed of Tight End that is found in today’s NFL if necessary. At first glance he doesn’t appear to have many glaring weaknesses. He’s an overall quality prospect who should be able to contribute right away in a lineup.

With the recent signing of Dennis Pitta in the rear view selecting Mosley would be an interesting choice. Now that the Ravens have their third down option would they be less likely to grab another pass catcher like Eric Ebron or Marquise Lee? The status of free agent Daryl Smith may also encourage them to go in this direction, as well as the recent cap departure of Jameel McClain. If they are unable to retain Smith who was such a difference maker in 2013, that would leave second-year player Arthur Brown and Josh Bynes as the top options.