Fansided

Each NFL team’s biggest breakout candidate

By Conor Dorney

Mandatory Credit: Justin Edmonds/Getty Images
Mandatory Credit: Justin Edmonds/Getty Images /
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BALTIMORE, MD – DECEMBER 18: Quarterback Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles is hit by linebacker Matt Judon #91 of the Baltimore Ravens in the first quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 18, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD – DECEMBER 18: Quarterback Carson Wentz #11 of the Philadelphia Eagles is hit by linebacker Matt Judon #91 of the Baltimore Ravens in the first quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on December 18, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) /

Baltimore Ravens – Matt Judon

You always have to love guys who play with a chip on their shoulder and as a former fifth-round pick from a small school, Ravens linebacker Matt Judon is just that type of player who could be poised for a breakout in 2018.

Entering his third year in the NFL, Judon saw his sack total double (from 4.0 to 8.0) last season and solidified his standing at the outside linebacker position. While many saw Judon as more of a down lineman coming out of the draft due to his immense frame (6-foot-3 and 275 pounds), he has more than proved himself capable of handling the coverage responsibilities that come with playing the linebacker position.

Judon is big, physical, and seems intent on proving the people who doubted his ability to transition from Division II Grand Valley State to the NFL. It also seems that the coaching staff continues to be impressed by Judon, as evidenced by this quote in the Baltimore Sun from head coach Jim Harbaugh:

"“He just continues to improve,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. “He is a very talented guy, a very smart player. He does not make the same mistake twice. He understands the concept of the defense, and when you get out there and you know what is going on around you and what other people are supposed to do, you make good decisions. He has done that.”"

Having the trust of your head coach is a huge factor in making an impact going forward and with Terrell Suggs inching closer towards the end of his playing career, Judon could be the next key cog in the Ravens’ pass-rushing attack.

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