By Austin Medina
It comes as no secret that the Ravens pass rush lost some flare from 2018.
It is nearly impossible to replace the loss of Terrell Suggs, the Ravens all-time lead in sacks. After seeing Suggs and Zadarius Smith move on, the Ravens were in trouble in regards to star power and depth on the edge.
Baltimore added two free agent edge rushers in Pernell McPhee and Shane Ray, both who come with major injury concerns. Additionally they drafted Louisiana Tech end Jaylon Ferguson in the third round.
Let’s not forget about Tyus Bowser, a second round draft pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. Bowser, who is entering his third season with Baltimore, spoke about his mindset going into a season without his former teammates such as Suggs and Smith.
Surely he has struggled to adjust to the pros since being drafted out of Houston. That said, Bowser has learned from elite pass rushers and now has the chance to show it on the field. “[It’s about> understanding that your time’s coming, and you can continue to get better as a player," Boswer stated via the team's website.
Bowser’s inability to secure tackles has proved detrimental to his play time. The latest moves by Baltimore should only put more pressure on Bowser. Ideally, the pressure pushes Bowser to excel and progress in his third season. With Matt Judon expected as one of the starting edge rushers, Bowser can reach out and grab the opportunity on the edge.
The loss of veterans can hurt in the short term, yet create openings for young players to evolve in the long-term. Bowser will certainly not be handed the starting job. He'll have to work, such as the likes of Tim Williams and newly-drafted Ferguson.
For the former second-round selection, 2019 will be the year where he’ll rise to the occasion or fall out of the Ravens long-term plans.