No one is surprised that the Baltimore Ravens will have to adjust their defensive rotation after losing Tavius Robinson for the season. They'll have to roll one without an important contributor on the defensive front, but Jesse Minter believes two young outside linebackers have made enough progress to handle increased responsibilities.
Zion Young and Ethan Burke were both named during their head coach's press conference on Friday. Expectations are that they could see their opportunities grow as Baltimore looks to maintain its defensive production.
Minter expressed confidence in both players' development. He pointed to their growing familiarity with the scheme and the NFL's physical demands as reasons they could be ready for more playing time.
"Yes, [Ethan Burke and Zion Young] have progressed really well. They're at that point now where they've played enough, and you don't feel like they're rookies anymore in a sense that they've been out there. They've played. They understand the physicality, and they understand what we're trying to do. So, I am excited to see those guys potentially get more snaps."
Robinson's absence is a huge one. It leaves Baltimore without a versatile edge defender who has contributed against the run and as a pass rusher. Young has a chance to fill that void, especially as the Ravens look to increase his involvement in rushing the quarterback. He acknowledged on Friday that stopping the run had been a major emphasis early in the season, but Robinson's injury could create more opportunities for him to attack opposing quarterbacks.
"First off, earlier this year, as you know, the emphasis has been stopping the run, but moving forward, I'll have more opportunities to rush the passer. I'll most definitely try to fill that role knowing that Tavius [Robinson] is gone, but he's been doing a tremendous job."
Young's physicality gives Baltimore an edge rusher, but continued development as a pass rusher will be important as his responsibilities expand. He has also discussed the need to develop counter moves to complement his power, which could help him become a more complete threat against opposing offensive tackles.
Burke is another option for Baltimore as it adjusts its defensive rotation. Minter's comments suggest the coaching staff believes both players have gained enough experience to contribute without being overwhelmed by the demands of an expanded role.
The challenge will be translating that progress into consistent production. Robinson's value extended beyond rushing the passer, so Baltimore will need its replacements to remain dependable against the run while helping generate pressure.
The Ravens will have opportunities to evaluate that depth as the season continues. For Young and Burke, Robinson's injury creates a difficult situation for a teammate but also a chance to show that their development has prepared them for a bigger role.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Jesse Minter eyes bigger roles for Zion Young, Ethan Burke