Incredible stat proves why Ravens' Roquan Smith is a dark horse contender for DPOY
Roquan Smith has upped his game over the early stages of the 2023 season. Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald continues to regularly provide Smith with more on-field responsibilities, and the versatile linebacker has responded to the calling each time. For one, Smith was called on to rush rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud on a regular basis […]
Roquan Smith has upped his game over the early stages of the 2023 season.
Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald continues to regularly provide Smith with more on-field responsibilities, and the versatile linebacker has responded to the calling each time. For one, Smith was called on to rush rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud on a regular basis during Baltimore’s Week 1 win over the Houston Texans, and he wound up tallying 1.0 sacks, six blitzes, and two pressures.
Smith has also not shied away from dropping back in coverage to add another dimension to Baltimore’s pass defense. As noted by Pro Football Focus, the sixth-year linebacker boasts an 85.6 PFF coverage grade, which ranks first among all Ravens players.
Overall, Smith has allowed a mere 65 receiving yards and a 76.3 passer rating while in coverage through four games played this season.
Smith’s improved play across the board has left Ravens head coach John Harbaugh in sheer appreciation.
"I love the way Roquan plays; I love the way he leads; I love the way he communicates," Harbaugh said during a press conference on Monday. “And [he's] another guy [who] chases perfection every day. [He's] never satisfied, never happy with where he's at. [He] just wants to keep getting better. He's definitely a physical player, though, to your point."
Smith now has an eye on the Ravens’ upcoming road clash with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He combined for 14 total tackles and five blitzes in two games played against Pittsburgh last year.
Steelers LB speaks on Pittsburgh’s Lamar Jackson plan for Week 5
Huge duel coming up.
