This is the eighth part of the offseason series that is focusing on the Baltimore Ravens' position groups as they continue organized team activities (OTAs). This post will look at the Ravens' outside linebackers.
Returning: Terrell Suggs*, Courtney Upshaw*, Elvis Dumervil, Zach Thompson (practice squad)
Newcomers: Za'Darius Smith (fourth round), Brennen Beyer (undrafted rookie)
Departures: Pernell McPhee (free agent, signed with Bears)
Roster spots likely available: Four
Competition: Upshaw vs. Smith for McPhee's situational pass-rusher role. The Ravens' pass rush has been at its best when they've had three legitimate threats to get to the quarterback. That's why it's a priority to replace McPhee, who ranked behind only J.J. Watt last season in quarterback hits. Smith has been referred to by Baltimore as a McPhee clone, but Upshaw has more motivation. Upshaw is entering his contract year, and he's watched McPhee and Paul Kruger cash in after posting big sack numbers before reaching free agency. Team officials mentioned how they hope the contract year will bring out the best in him. Upshaw, whose conditioning has been a concern over the years, reported to OTAs in good shape. He's been a disappointment as a pass-rusher in the NFL. His last full sack came in October 2013.
Outlook: The Ravens return one of the top pass-rush tandems in the NFL. Dumervil set the Ravens' single-season record with 17 sacks last season, and Suggs is the franchise's all-time sacks leader with 106.5. Suggs is usually a good run stopper, although he's been taking more chances by crashing the edges in recent years. He finished third on the team in tackles last season. Upshaw and Dumervil split time at the other outside linebacker spot. Upshaw started 14 games because he's better against the run, but Dumervil finished with 83 more snaps than Upshaw. The Ravens are banking on either Upshaw or Smith becoming that third pass-rusher. If they struggle to get to the quarterback this preseason or an injury occurs, the Ravens could show interest in a free-agent pass-rusher like Dwight Freeney.
* Projected starter
Previous offseason reviews: Quarterbacks, running backs, tight ends, wide receivers, offensive line, defensive line and inside linebackers
