Barrett Ruud

Ruud will start at middle linebacker for the Titans after signing a one-year deal. Ruud is generally a thumper rather than a sideline-to-sideline player, but he’s still athletic enough to play three downs. And with 511 tackles the last four years, he figures to flourish in 2011 with Tennessee.

Since winning a starting job three years ago, Ruud’s high tackle totals have made the Tampa inside ‘backer one of the NFL’s top IDP contributors. He set a career high in stops last season with 142, including a 17-tackle (13 solo) tour de force against Atlanta in the season finale. He didn’t record a sack after posting three in 2008, but he’s had at least one interception in each of the last three years. If you place any stock in contract drives, Ruud’s value gets a boost this year; unless an extension is worked out, he’s on track to be an unrestricted free agent after this season.

Installed as a starter for the 2007 season, Ruud put up outstanding numbers – 114 tackles and two interceptions – making him a popular IDP pick for 2008. He was even better last season, setting career highs in tackles (137) and sacks (3) and picking off two more passes. Ruud could be a top-10 IDP performer this season, though he doesn’t get as much attention as other linebackers – he was snubbed for the Pro Bowl last year despite finishing fourth in the league in tackles. Be aware of his contract status, though. He’s reportedly looking for a new deal and skipped several team events in May.

In his first year as a starter, Ruud burst onto the IDP scene with 114 tackles and two interceptions in 2007 as Tampa Bay's middle linebacker. He's only 25 and offers tremendous upside. Ruud could have been more consistent last season – he mixed seven double-digit tackle performances with five games of five or fewer stops – but such is often the case with young players, especially first-time starters. And Ruud was bothered by a lingering minor knee injury, which also might have been a factor. Look for more improvement from Ruud in 2008; he could easily exceed 120 tackles.

Promoted to starting middle linebacker this season. 57 tackles in 16 games as a part-timer backing up Shelton Quarles in 2006.

The Bucs' 2005 second-round pick looked great in limited action; one of these days, he'll unseat Shelton Quarles as the middle linebacker and the Bucs won't miss a beat. As it is, he may the league's best fourth linebacker in 2006. 15 tackles, no sacks in 2005.

Ruud, a second round draft choice from Nebraska, looked great in the early stages of the Bucs' training camp. Don't be shocked if he's a starter before the end of the year.