Trenton Simpson Taking the Leap for Baltimore Ravens in Year 2

Trenton Simpson is likely the next breakout linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens. The 23-year-old, who was a backup last season behind former first-rounder Patrick Queen, is now slated to start next to All-Pro Roquan Smith.

Queen signed with the divisional rival Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency, so the former third-rounder from 2023 has big shoes to fill next to the veteran. So far, the athleticism and instincts have all shown up this preseason, making him a key piece for defensive coordinator Zach Orr's defense in 2024.

Trenton Simpson Slated as 2nd MLB Starter

Baltimore Ravens M&T Bank StadiumPhoto byBrendan BealeonUnsplash

Trenton Simpson has been a force this preseason, as he had a solid finish in their finale against the Green Bay Packers. He had 6 total tackles, a pass deflection, and an interception. The former Clemson Tiger had no starts but mostly played in the final regular season game against Pittsburgh. Simpson recorded his first NFL sack in Week 18 of last season.

The young athletic linebacker is positioned to breakout in his second year, playing next to veteran Roquan Smith. His arrival boosted their former starter Queen after the Ravens traded for Smith. Now with the Steelers, the former Baltimore linebacker from LSU struggled as a starter till he was penciled in as the second starter.

Baltimore Ravens Could Have Best LB Duo in NFL

Coming out of the 2023 NFL Draft, Trenton Simpson was one of the more explosive linebackers in that draft class with his combine performance. He ran a 4.43 40-yard dash at 6'2" and 235 pounds while benching 25 reps of 225 pounds. Simpson had a 40.5 vertical jump and a 9 ft 10 in broad jump.

His wingspan of 32+3⁄8 in arm length made his profile very versatile, as a linebacker who could play inside or outside but needed time to develop. From sacking the quarterback or tackling the ball carrier to making plays on the ball as a strong thumper, Simpson is a unique linebacker.

Defense with Zach Orr Has High Expectations

The Baltimore Ravens will need Trenton Simpson to be an early impact starter. Although he is next to Smith, their pass rush with fourth-year starter Odafe Oweh and veteran Kyle Van Noy could be lacking. The inside linebacker can be effective on blitzes in Orr's new defense that is undergoing a few changes on the roster.

Simpson can also be effective in coverage while being an elite high-speed chase tackler. His pursuit angles in traffic have improved and look good so far heading into the 2024 regular season. The speed from both linebacker spots will make it tough for opposing offenses to run and pass the ball against the Baltimore Ravens.

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Article originally written by Andrew Kim