Dec 18, 2011; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders middle linebacker Rolando McClain (55) warms up before the game against the Detroit Lions at O.co Coliseum. Detroit defeated Oakland 28-27. Mandatory Credit: Jason O. Watson-USA TODAY Sports

The Baltimore Ravens lost both Ray Lewis and Dannell Ellerbe after their Super Bowl run, and now they have begun looking for replacements. Baltimore has reached out to former Oakland Raiders linebacker Rolando McClain and the two sides are working on finalizing a deal that would make him a Raven.

Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter:

Former Raiders LB Rolando McClain is nearing deal with Ravens. Two sides scheduled to talk today to see if they iron out unresolved issues.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 10, 2013

The move makes sense on a number of fronts. First, it fills a clear need with a talented player. There are character concerns surrounding him, but with Ozzie Newsome’s ties to the Alabama program and a great group of professionals around him, they should be able to find a way to keep McClain under control.

It is a great opportunity for the 23-year-old to resurrect his career with an outstanding organization and you can be sure the Ravens are making that loud and clear.

McClain has always been a great talent, but he never was put in a position to succeed.

But now, things are looking up for the 2009 Butkus Award winner. In Baltimore, all of the pieces are there for the 2010 No. 8 overall pick to turn around his career.