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USA Today Sports Media Group
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glenn erby

Takeaways, observations from Zach Orr’s first press conference as Ravens DC

Zach Orr Zachary Orr Ravens Ro (Person) Baltimore Ravens Mike Macdonald Baltimore (Organization) NFL Ozzie Newsome the Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens quickly replaced Mike Macdonald as defensive coordinator, promoting inside linebackers coach Zachary Orr.

Orr, who played for the Ravens from 2014-2016, is a fast-rising star in the coaching ranks.

The 31-year-old Orr has been on the Ravens staff since 2017, save for one season with the Jaguars and Urban Meyer in 2021.

An undrafted player from North Texas, Orr was forced to retire because of a neck/spine condition. During his final season in 2016, Orr had his best year, finishing with 133 tackles, three interceptions, and two fumble recoveries.

The Ravens introduced Orr to the media on Tuesday, and here are 11 takeaways from the presser.

Ravens players react

(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Orr was a tough linebacker, and during that final year of his career, played like a taller version of Roquan Smith.

Ro and other players offered their support and insight into who Zach Orr is as a man and a coach.

Zach Orr on his journey

(AP Photo/Nick Wass)

Woody Allen once said: ‘If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans.’

The talented linebacker had the expectation that he’d spend a decade plus in the NFL before transitioning to the Scholastic world as a high school coach.

Zach Orr on Ozzie Newsome

(AP Photo)

Fame GM and former NFL tight end Ozzie Newsome played a part in Orr’s transition to coaching, and he offered some realistic advice prior to the linebacker entering the coaching field.

Zach Orr on interview process

While Mike Macdonald was formulating his exit strategy to Seattle, Orr interviewed with John Harbaugh on a Monday and Tuesday, quickly moving along in the process.

Zach Orr on calling plays for the first time

(Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Orr will call place as the defensive coordinator, and he’ll make those calls from the sidelines.

Orr said it was three years ago when he started watching film and broke it down with the mindset of a coordinator.

Orr on looking in his players eyes

(Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Orr is a former linebacker, so he’ll approach the role as defensive coordinator with a different energy.

He addressed that process, and why he’ll call plays from the sidelines.

Zach Orr on his style of defense

(AP Photo)

Orr has used the phrase “organized chaos”, and playing violently when it comes to his brand of defense.

Zach Orr on acquiring a record setting defense

(AP Photo)

The Ravens became the first team in NFL history to lead the league in points allowed (16.5 per game), sacks (60) and turnovers (31).

Orr talked about following up Macdonald and taking over such a successful defense.

Orr on becoming NFL's youngest DC

Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Orr on current priorities

This is a 2018 photo of Zach Orr of the Baltimore Ravens NFL football team. This image reflects the Baltimore Ravens active roster as of Thursday, May 3, 2018 when this image was taken. (AP Photo)

Baltimore lost Dennard Wilson (Titans DC), Anthony Weaver (Dolphins DC), Corey Krawiec (Ravens player evaluation and analytics manager), and Joe Hortiz.

Orr will have to replace himself as inside linebackers coach, although he could keep a dual-role.

Orr on what he'll take from Mike Macdonald

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND – DECEMBER 31: Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald of the Baltimore Ravens looks on during the first half of the game against the Miami Dolphins at M&T Bank Stadium on December 31, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Todd Olszewski/Getty Images)

Orr on breaking the news to his family

(AP Photo)

Orr on his loyalty to the Ravens

Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

Orr suffered a neck injury after signing a huge new deal, and becoming one of the NFL’s top young linebackers.

Rather than discard the heartbroken player, Ozzie Newsome and the Ravens embraced Orr, helping him transition to the coaching profession.

Orr talked about the loyalty to Baltimore and the community.

Orr on the role Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti played after he retired

Sep 22, 2017; London, England, United Kingdom; Baltimore Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti reacts during practice at the Hazelwood. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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