Ray Lewis is a beast. The 12 time Pro Bowler is the face of the Baltimore Ravens (sorry Flacco, but it's true). It's hard to imagine the Ravens without Lewis, but inevitably at some point that will happen. Although that day isn't today, the Ravens know they will eventually need to prepare for life post-Lewis and in the 2011 draft there are a few linebackers that could potentially help with the transition.
Illinois' Martez Wilson impressed at the combine posting the fastest 40-yard dash time of all linebackers. As a freshman he played outside linebacker and then moved to middle linebacker his junior year. As a senior he lead the team in tackles and was voted All-Big 10. Speed and versatility make him an appealing prospect.
North Carolina's Quan Sturdivant has great speed and is particularly productive against the run. He, like Wilson, is also able to play outside linebacker. Although there were off the field issues involving a marijuana possession charge, on the field he was considered a strong leader.
Another name to keep an eye on is Michigan State's Greg Jones. Like Lewis, Jones is a little shorter than most linebackers, but what he lacks in height he makes up for in heart. He's a tackling monster with great instincts who thrives in blitzing situations. A three time first team all Big-10 selection, Jones exhibits extremely strong leadership skills.
The Ravens have shown interest in Oregon's Casey Matthews. Of course everyone mentions his football rich bloodlines, which run deep, but Matthews has made a name for himself as a play maker. He has great instincts, as demonstrated in the BCS National Championship game by his Cam Newton forced fumble. He led the Ducks last season with 79 tackles, three interceptions and three recovered fumbles. Although he was injured at the combine, Matthews productive career at Oregon speaks for itself.
It remains to be seen if the Ravens will take any of these players come draft day. Ray Lewis isn't leaving the game just yet, but he did recently suggest he couldn't see himself playing football past the age of 37. His 36th birthday is just a month away, which gives Baltimore a year or so to start grooming his successor.
The Ravens will never be able to replace what Ray Lewis has meant to the franchise and the community. He's not only important statistically, but also serves as the fiercely outspoken, emotional leader of the Ravens. Although no one will ever take the place of Lewis, someone will need to step in to fill the position of inside linebacker and make an impact of their own. Who knows, General Manager Ozzie Newsome and the coaching staff may just envision one of these players in that position. Guess we'll find out their strategy the last weekend in April.
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