As noted in previous articles, the Ravens can use some help at linebacker. Of the players they have on their roster at that position, some are primarily special teamers and others have parts of their game that they could improve on.
The tricky part about the linebacker position in the Ravens defensive system is that linebackers are probably the least utilized position on the field. Yes, “edge” defenders are usually outside linebackers, but considering how often sub packages are used, the order of position usage for Baltimore’s defense usually goes: cornerback, safety, defensive lineman, edge defender, linebacker.
At the end of the day, even if a prospect doesn’t play a position of need but is still an impact player, the Ravens seriously consider taking them.
NFL Draft Player Profile: Troy Andersen, Linebacker, Montana State
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 235 pounds
2021 stats: 147 tackles, 7 passes defensed, 2 interceptions, 2.0 sacks
Key traits: Dynamic in all he does. Always around the football. Converted running back that accomplished a lot in wildcat and particularly from the 10-yard line and in. Close to a certainty to score on offense when it’s goal to go. Tracks the football with his eyes and has the speed to get there (many players have one trait or the other…Andersen has both). Blitzes cleanly, anticipating snap counts so as not to get chipped when penetrating the line. Plays with very good leverage when pursuing perimeter runs, getting over top of pullers with seemingly little effort. Good in pass coverage if the scheme puts him in that position. Not the hardest hitter but a sure tackler. Will never give up on a play.
Ideal position: Inside linebacker (WILL or MIKE)
Potential draft spot: Round 3, Pick 105
Why he’d be a good fit: The Draft Network’s Joe Marino, in the first words of his report on Andersen, said, “Troy Andersen is the most versatile player in the 2022 NFL Draft.” Marino goes on to say, “He has easy movement skills in coverage and can serve as a matchup defender to play some man…it’s abundantly clear that he’s still new to playing linebacker.” If he’s performing well in man coverage and making 147 tackles a year while still learning the position…wow.
Named the FCS Defensive Player of the Year, it’s apparent there’s not much Andersen can’t do. Especially in an organization like the Ravens that have the infrastructure to maximize unique potential like Andersen’s (not just defensively), it would be well worth their while to strongly consider drafting him.
Think of a lighter, faster version of Patrick Ricard. Think of what Mike Macdonald (and Greg Roman) could be dealing with if Baltimore drafts Andersen.
Cool side note: Rushed for 1,412 yards in 13 games (109 per game) during his freshman year at Montana State.
Bottom line: Grab a coffee, watch this highlight package, and enjoy.
NFL Draft Player Profile: Leo Chenal, Linebacker, Wisconsin
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 261 pounds
2021 stats: 115 tackles, 18.5 tfl, 8.0 sacks, 2 forced fumbles
Key traits: Relentless pursuit. Incessant on penetrating the line of scrimmage. Pullers and lead blockers rarely stand a chance. Very intelligent. Reads blocks and deciphers cadences to time snap/handoff/quarterback drop backs well. It’s hard to tell how much range he has when dropping into coverage (as he didn’t do it as much as others at his position while at Wisconsin), but when he does drop into coverage, he handles himself well.
Ideal position: SAM (or MIKE) linebacker
Potential draft spot: Round 4
Why he’d be a good fit: For a middle linebacker, Chenal generates a tremendous amount of pressure on the quarterback and is a regular in the offensive backfield. Besides his positional importance, Chenal has proven time and time again his ability to successfully execute plays in a blitz-heavy system, coordinated by former Ravens standout safety Jim Leonhard.
Cool side note: He was named the 2018 Wisconsin Gatorade Player of the Year
Bottom line: Chenal is a heat-seeking missile with one thing in mind: get the football.
Born in Baltimore, Mike had long been drawn to sports of all kinds. Growing up watching Cal Ripken play ever day gave him a great example for which to attack every endeavor he undertakes.
When the Ravens came to town, though, that’s when Mike found his passion. Since that time, he’s tried to gain every bit of knowledge he could. Now as a high school coach, Mike is able to take his film study and appreciation of the game to a new level.
To engage with Mike on social media, follow him on Twitter @MikeFastNFL.