Baltimore looking to add linebacker as part of rebuilding process.
The Baltimore Ravens are nearing a deal with free agent linebacker Rolando McClain, as the team look to rebuild a defence that has lost five starters in this off-season.
Source: ProFootballTalk.com
After the Baltimore Ravens lost half of their starting defence this off-season, general manager Ozzie Newsome knew that he would have a hard task.
The process has already begun with the prospect of signing Rolando McClain to a long-term deal, which will see the former Oakland Raider anchor the middle of the linebacker corps as the team begin their Super Bowl defence.
Losing long-time leader Ray Lewis to retirement and Dannell Ellerbee to Miami through free agency, the Ravens had to move quick to ensure there was some stability to the middle of their defence, and are hoping McClain can be that man.
Despite having a string of off-field problems while with the Raiders, the 23-year old seems to have been given a second chance with Baltimore, and his style of play will be beneficial to the system the team runs.
Due to the contract that Quarterback Joe Flacco signed in March, the team had to make cuts elsewhere, with defence taking a huge hit.
The strength of the unit will be considerably lower than what it was that helped the team to a Super Bowl, with a young and inexperienced team making the starting on opening day.
Ozzie Newsome is one of the most experienced and best GM’s in the league, while the transformation won’t be immediate, and a temporary slump may occur while the team develops it’s young talent, it won’t be long before Baltimore finds itself back in Super Bowl contention.
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