It’s that time of year again when NFL Media analyst Elliot Harrison announces his NFL All-Under-25 Team.
For the past three seasons, Harrison has put together a team players who have made a significant impact in prior seasons and expecting the same as we head into the 2016 season.
Only one Raven made his list this year, inside linebacker C.J. Mosley.
Mosley, the Ravens 17th overall selection in the 2014 draft, has become a solid addition to a team that has long been known for their linebackers.
After a solid rookie Pro Bowl campaign in 2014 (only rookie in Ravens history to earn Pro-Bowl honor), Mosley endured an up and down 2015 season. By the end, however, he had produced decent numbers from the middle of Dean Pees’ defense.
The former Alabama standout totaled 116 tackles (76), a career best in sacks (4) along with seven passes defended, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.
“Mosley might not have followed up his sterling rookie campaign with the All-Pro leap forward people were expecting in 2015, but he is still one of the top young players in the NFL,” Harrison wrote. “The Baltimore ILB compiled over 100 tackles while being adequate in coverage. Look for him — and the entire Ravens team — to be healthier this coming season … and much better.”
As the Ravens look ahead to the 2016 season, Mosley will be looked upon to take that next step as a leader in the linebacker corps. The organization parted ways with Daryl Smith last week.
With a glaring need for speed on defense, the Ravens have little depth at the inside linebacker position behind Mosley. Arthur Brown has been a disappointment since being drafted in the second round of 2013. Zachary Orr showed promise last season filling in for Smith on passing downs, but he is still relatively raw.
It’s expected the team will look to the draft for another speed linebacker.
The Raven drafted Mosley to fill some big shoes. He is still young, but he has provided them with security at the position. They have found something special in the young inside linebacker.
Congrats C.J.
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