:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/47077954/usa-today-8295461.0.jpg)
Upon the loss of Haloti Ngata, Timmy Jernigan will be called upon to fill the role that Ngata once held at the defensive tackle position. So far, Jernigan looks ready to take that step.
Jernigan played well in spots last year, racking up a total of five sacks (including postseason). In training camp, he has played really well, with some observers stating that during the Ravens-Eagles joint practices, Jernigan was "living in the backfield."
Jernigan will be relied upon to stuff run plays, while providing pressure on the quarterback as well. The biggest question for Jernigan is his durability. He's dealt with several injuries, forcing him to miss valuable time in the training camp and in pre-season. Jernigan has a ton of potential and has the ability to make a huge splash this year, but he has to stay on the field to do so.
Listed second on the depth chart is Kapron Lewis-Moore. The Ravens are hoping that Lewis-Moore can see the field during the regular season for the first time this year, after missing the last two seasons with knee injuries. Lewis-Moore was a 6th round pick, but was projected much higher coming out of Notre Dame, dropping because of an injury.
The Ravens think Lewis-Moore has the talent to play, as evidenced by keeping him on the roster this long, but if he is healthy this year, he will need to make an impact. Lewis-Moore played particularly well against the Redskins, recording four tackles and the second best defender PFF rating (only trailing Brandon Williams).
The other defensive tackle is Christo Bilukidi. The fourth year pro out of Georgia State recorded three tackles for the Ravens in a reserve role. Bilukidi is a bubble guy, and I believe he is a long-shot to make the 53 man roster. However, I believe the Ravens will seek to put him on the practice squad and hope that they can keep him there.