The Baltimore Ravens have reportedly decided to release linebacker Elvis Dumervil Wednesday after an injury-riddled 2016 season.
Former Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. first reported Dumervil's release. Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun confirmed the Ravens' decision to part ways with the linebacker.
Dumervil spoke about the move on Wednesday:
Zrebiec also noted the Ravens would save $6 million against the salary cap by releasing Dumervil. Per Spotrac, the team would also have $2,375,000 of dead money attached to the linebacker.
The reported move doesn't come as much of a surprise considering the cost versus production provided by the veteran.
The 33-year-old only appeared in eight games this past season, starting three, while dealing with a foot injury that limited him all year long. He finished with just three sacks and 11 tackles.
Until injuries slowed him down in 2016, Dumervil was one of the best pass-rushers in the NFL. He spent six years with the Denver Broncos before playing four with the Ravens, earning five Pro Bowl appearances with two first-team All-Pro nods. He reached 17 sacks in two different seasons and his 99 career sacks put him among the top active players in the NFL.
His addition in 2013 was invaluable for the Ravens after the organization lost numerous defensive contributors to free agency following the Super Bowl title the year prior.
However, the squad must now upgrade a defense that finished tied for 24th in the NFL with 31 sacks in 2016.
Even with Terrell Suggs returning for his 15th season, the Ravens will need to find someone else to fill in off the edge either through the draft or free agency.
Meanwhile, Dumervil might have to accept a short-term contract to prove he can still compete at a high level, but he should be able to find a home before next season.
Read more Baltimore Ravens news on BleacherReport.com
from Bleacher Report - Baltimore Ravens http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2695869-elvis-dumervil-reportedly-released-by-baltimore-ravens
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