Former Wildcats Arthur Brown, Meshak Williams Play In Baltimore Preseason Opener

Douglas Jones-USA TODAY Sports

Arthur Brown is competing for a starting linebacker spot with Baltimore. Meshak Williams is simply playing for a spot. Both received limited action against Tampa Bay last night in the Ravens’ first preseason game of the year.

I didn’t watch any of the game, but one of the gripes I read afterward was that the team seemed to concentrate on its defensive veterans and didn’t get a very long look at the rookies. Brown was expected to compete for a starting spot, but only subbed in for nickel packages in obvious passing situations. He did not record any statistics at the end of the night.

Meshak Williams saw time at outside linebacker in Baltimore’s 3-4 formation later in the game, recording a solo stop and another assisted tackle. He played during both the third and fourth quarter, receiving an extended look from the Ravens.

Not a lot of takeaways here. We know Brown is a sure tackler, but his best asset is speed and it’s no surprise he be playing in nickel packages this year. The question is whether he can break into the starting line up or will need another year of development. Williams was an undrafted free agent and has been fighting to prove himself. During the second day of full-team training camp practices he scooped up a fumbled hand-off and returned it untouched, but has otherwise been quiet this summer. He is likely a practice squad player this year. However, teams tend to play their starters less as the regular season approaches, so he should have more chances on the field as the preseason marches on.