Zach Orr is a first-time defensive coordinator, but Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith says he has the right qualities to be successful.
The Seahawks signed defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald as head coach following the Ravens’ historic defensive regular season. The burden of replacing him fell to Ravens coach John Harbaugh, who didn’t have to search far.
Former Ravens linebacker and current linebackers coach Zach Orr was promoted from within. And Roquan Smith could not be happier about it.
Smith declared, “I have the utmost respect for ‘ZO’ and the way he approaches his work every day.” “I think he brings that passion to the game of football and coaching, even if it’s sad that an injury ended his career. I can see he lives by the adage, “You have to give everything you have while you have it,” since you never know when your time on earth will end.
Indeed, I’m ecstatic for him. In addition to his football intelligence and ability to connect with players, he brings passion to the field, off the field, and in the meeting room. He’s somewhat new to the game and fits in well with our defense generally, in my opinion. Not simply because of what he says, but also because of his behavior and approach to things, everyone in the building respects him. I’m thrilled that he is spearheading the effort and believe it will greatly benefit our defense. I’m excited since I know his mindset is a lot like mine. I have no doubt that it will be fantastic for us.
Smith had Orr as his position coach in 2023, and totaled 158 tackles including five for loss, five quarterback hits, 1.5 sacks, eight passes defended, an interception and a forced fumble.
