| Ravens' Jameel McClain is playing his college position, which has meant more playing time. (US Presswire) |
During Baltimore's 24-23 loss to Philadelphia, linebacker Jameel McClain saw himself in an old, but familiar position.
He was an outside linebacker at times, much like he was in college and early on in his NFL career after signing with Baltimore as an undrafted free agent in 2008. With only three outside linebackers active (Albert McClellan, Courtney Upshaw, Sergio Kindle) last Sunday, McClain helped the rotation with his addition.
After seeing 31 snaps against Cincinnati in the opener, McClain played 58 with the added dimension of moving to the outside. With inside linebacker Dannell Ellerbe's role increasing early this season, especially in pass coverage, it makes sense to find a way to keep McClain on the field.
"It's something I did in college (at Syracuse)," McClain said. "How did it go for me? It's a learning curve, something I got to to get back used to if I get the opportunity again."
McClain's strong suit is defending the run and receiving some reps at outside linebacker could help a young group set the edge against running backs that want to bounce plays to the sideline.
With Ellerbe aiding the defense against the pass, it's a way to have both defenders on the field at the same time.
He recorded five tackles against the Eagles after being limited to just two tackles the week before. McClain was seen as a piece the Ravens felt the need to keep this offseason as he re-signed with the organization in March, to the tune of a three-year, $10.5 million deal.
McClain injured his knee against Philadelphia on a special teams play but finished the game. After missing Wednesday's practice, he returned to the field on Thursday.
"My knee is good," McClain said. "It works, like always."
Looking back at the Philadelphia game, McClain said miscommunication issues led to Michael Vick throwing for 371 yards. Moving ahead to New England, he said the linebacking unit will need to shore up the mistakes it made, especially when the unit dropped into zone coverages.
"For us, we've got to be on the same page," McClain said. "It's something we said from day one."
Follow Ravens reporter Jason Butt on Twitter @CBSRavens and @JasonButtCBS.