The Ravens have a long history of finding diamonds in the rough at inside linebacker.
Bart Scott, Jameel McClain and Dannell Ellerbe were all undrafted free agents who thrived in Baltimore and eventually cashed in with big contracts. Albert McClellan is a former undrafted linebacker who started the entire Super Bowl season and is now the leader of the Ravens' special-teams unit.
Zach Orr smiled when asked if he knew about that history.
"I'm well aware of it," Orr said. "That was one of the things that attracted me to this place because they give everybody an opportunity to showcase themselves. That's all that you can ask for as a player, especially as a rookie."
The second-year linebacker was one of last season's biggest surprises, making the team as an undrafted prospect from North Texas. He then went on to play 17 games during the season, and finished second on the team with seven special teams tackles.
He's continuing to impress again this year.
Orr was consistent throughout offseason practices, excelling on special teams and making significant strides on defense. He was even taking reps with the starters by the end of mandatory minicamp.
"My mentality is that I'm still fighting for a job," Orr said. "Last year, making the team wasn't enough for me. I feel like as an undrafted free agent they're always trying to bring someone in to replace you. That just keeps me motivated and I want to keep approaching things the same way I did last year."
Barring any injuries, defensive snaps will be difficult to come by for Orr during the season because Daryl Smith and C.J. Mosley are firmly entrenched in the starting lineup.
But that hasn't deterred Orr from finding a way to make an impact.
He was a top special teamer last year, and is likely to take on that responsibility again.
"I embrace whatever role they set out for me," he said. "I'm still hungry as an undrafted free agent. That title never leaves you and it's a good thing."
