Wide Receivers

[SizzleXLVII]

People always remember one game.  I know I'm going to get negged for this but bring it on.
 
 
Tandon Doss... Everyone remembers the Indy game.  Did you all forget all of the other times his hands came up big?  He had some huge 3rd down plays this year where his hands saved us.  Are we really going to write him off after one bad game?  Guys all around the league have had their share of bad games.  He was the golden boy in preseason, but one bad game seems to dictate all of your opinions on him.
 
David Reed... Everyone remembers the Seahawks game and his injuries.  The Seahawks game was bad, yes, but that has nothing to do with his receiving ability.  His injuries are a product of misfortune as well.  The guy tore his ACL and broke his thumb, legitimate injuries.  It's not like he's missing practice because his back hurts.  He was never injured in college and has just had bad luck so far.  He looked pretty good against the Bengals, don't write him off.
 
LaQuan Williams... I'll go the opposite direction here.  He doesn't look all that great to me.  Average hands.  Average speed.  Average route running.  I've always thought he was very overrated here but he gets the benefit of the doubt because he's a local product.
 
 
I'm going to venture a guess and say that one of Reed or Doss step up big for us this year.  People remember one bad game and seem to forget all of the good things these guys have done for us in very limited action (Cam Cameron anyone?).  The coaches see these guys in practice everyday.  They know what they have.  We see the very limited opportunities they have in games, and we're in a better position to judge these guys?  I know the WR isn't ideal right now, but if the Ravens truly thought this was as big of an issue as most of you do, they would have made a move.  It's clear that they like the guys they have and that they're better than all of you are giving them credit for.

As far as Tandon Doss goes, he had 7 receptions all year, so I don't think he got us out of sticky spots as often as you say he did. The best thing I remember him doing is drawing a PI flag against Denver. Having said that, I think this is the year he does better- simply because the more you play the more comfortable you get. In a limited role you're never going to be that fluid and great.
 
 

Really? I watched some tape of his and speed is something he doesn't have. His hands are inconsistent; he dropped a few easy catches in the games I watched. I didn't see him against press very often.

There's no doubting Mellette has speed- he ran like a 4.5 at the combine which isn't exactly slow. I just think he was a bit lethargic in some of his routes because he was always gonna get the ball against that competition. He impressed at the Senior Bowl though which should show that he has the potential to be pretty decent against good competition. He's kind of a hard guy to rate at the moment but he has the tools to be good. Just gotta wait and see.

[GrimCoconut]

People always remember one game.  I know I'm going to get negged for this but bring it on.

 

 

Tandon Doss... Everyone remembers the Indy game.  Did you all forget all of the other times his hands came up big?  He had some huge 3rd down plays this year where his hands saved us.  Are we really going to write him off after one bad game?  Guys all around the league have had their share of bad games.  He was the golden boy in preseason, but one bad game seems to dictate all of your opinions on him.

 

David Reed... Everyone remembers the Seahawks game and his injuries.  The Seahawks game was bad, yes, but that has nothing to do with his receiving ability.  His injuries are a product of misfortune as well.  The guy tore his ACL and broke his thumb, legitimate injuries.  It's not like he's missing practice because his back hurts.  He was never injured in college and has just had bad luck so far.  He looked pretty good against the Bengals, don't write him off.

 

LaQuan Williams... I'll go the opposite direction here.  He doesn't look all that great to me.  Average hands.  Average speed.  Average route running.  I've always thought he was very overrated here but he gets the benefit of the doubt because he's a local product.

 

 

I'm going to venture a guess and say that one of Reed or Doss step up big for us this year.  People remember one bad game and seem to forget all of the good things these guys have done for us in very limited action (Cam Cameron anyone?).  The coaches see these guys in practice everyday.  They know what they have.  We see the very limited opportunities they have in games, and we're in a better position to judge these guys?  I know the WR isn't ideal right now, but if the Ravens truly thought this was as big of an issue as most of you do, they would have made a move.  It's clear that they like the guys they have and that they're better than all of you are giving them credit for.

+1 from me. 

 

Anyway, I agree, but you have to remember it's a "What have you done for me lately?" kind of league & the fans share these sentiments. I can't blame anyone for being upset or even mad or even  doubting or WR situation. I doubt you do, either. Lol, you have to preface things around here or people get themselves in a bunch. 

 

I'm very excited for this year for so many reasons. I think we may see some 3TE sets. I'm REALLY excited to see those. What do I mean by that?

 

Torrey Smith outside

Jacoby Jones outside

Dennis Pitta in the slot as a WO

KJ as the RTE

Dickson or Furstenburg as the LTE

 

Dude, that's a match-up nightmare! If Dickson learns to catch the ball, we'll have a nearly unstoppable offense. Hell, put Tommy Streeter in the slot. Give those linebackers nightmares for weeks! LOL!

[PolishRifle]

Ozzie knows his limits. He doesn't know how to evaluate receivers. We get a great defense and nice running game and Joe throwing the ball to Torrey, Pitta and a bunch of nobodies. Sounds like Ravens football to me.

[PolishRifle]

Dude, that's a match-up nightmare! If Dickson learns to catch the ball, we'll have a nearly unstoppable offense. Hell, put Tommy Streeter in the slot. Give those linebackers nightmares for weeks! LOL!

Unless the other teams defense plays press coverage. At that point our receivers struggle to get open like last season.

[rmw10]

+1 from me. 

 

Anyway, I agree, but you have to remember it's a "What have you done for me lately?" kind of league & the fans share these sentiments. I can't blame anyone for being upset or even mad or even  doubting or WR situation. I doubt you do, either. Lol, you have to preface things around here or people get themselves in a bunch. 

 

I'm very excited for this year for so many reasons. I think we may see some 3TE sets. I'm REALLY excited to see those. What do I mean by that?

 

Torrey Smith outside

Jacoby Jones outside

Dennis Pitta in the slot as a WO

KJ as the RTE

Dickson or Furstenburg as the LTE

 

Dude, that's a match-up nightmare! If Dickson learns to catch the ball, we'll have a nearly unstoppable offense. Hell, put Tommy Streeter in the slot. Give those linebackers nightmares for weeks! LOL!

 

 

I agree.  I just think think people let one game cloud their judgement of their overall abilities.  I'll admit that I'm not 100% comfortable with the WR situation.  I just don't think it's fair to say that "Doss and Reed suck.  We're screwed."  It's not like that. These guys are quality players.  They may not step up and be that #2 that we need, but they also don't suck because they had one bad game.

[SecretAgentMan]

Ozzie knows his limits. He doesn't know how to evaluate receivers. We get a great defense and nice running game and Joe throwing the ball to Torrey, Pitta and a bunch of nobodies. Sounds like Ravens football to me.

If it gets us to the playoffs(like it usually  does), then I'm ok with it....

[rmw10]

As far as Tandon Doss goes, he had 7 receptions all year, so I don't think he got us out of sticky spots as often as you say he did. The best thing I remember him doing is drawing a PI flag against Denver. Having said that, I think this is the year he does better- simply because the more you play the more comfortable you get. In a limited role you're never going to be that fluid and great.

 

But how many of those 7 receptions were big plays?  I'd venture to say most were 3rd down conversions, since that's primarily when he was on the field.  He drew multiple PI's this year because he just beat his man and forced the CB to make a play or let it become a big gain.  I don't think his stats dictate what he did for us on the field in 2012, but unfortunately, that's where people look.

[PolishRifle]

If it gets us to the playoffs(like it usually  does), then I'm ok with it....

That's a fair point, but it usually also cost us the chance to get to the SB. The reason we got through the playoffs last season was the passing and Boldin was a big part of it. It's okay, that we won't repeat next season, but we also will be too deep down the draft to get a WR next year, who would be a playmaker. Unless Ozzie mans up and takes the risk on one of those guys of course.

I guess the BPA philosophy has it's draw backs.

[GrimCoconut]

Ozzie knows his limits. He doesn't know how to evaluate receivers. We get a great defense and nice running game and Joe throwing the ball to Torrey, Pitta and a bunch of nobodies. Sounds like Ravens football to me.

Yeah, I think that may be a reason why we neglected the WR position this year. I actually liked his draft a lot. See, the brilliance is we just RELOADED our entire defense. Our defense should be set for YEARS. Simon is a beast, man. He should be able to get great numbers. He can develop slowly. We could even move him into a DE, like we tried with Kruger. I wouldn't be at all surprised. I really like Simon a lot. He was one of my favorite prospects in the entire draft. 

 

Then, we got Lewis-Moore. It's so hard for me to say this--it really is. It hurts me to say it, but I think us acquiring Kapron Lewis-Moore was probably the best pick of our entire draft. That guy is one of the best DEs I have seen in football from a leadership perspective as well as talent. He has both of those things. He played REALLY well against good competition. I watched a lot of Notre Dame football, partly because my friend's a HUGE fan & alumni & I wanted to watch Manti Te'o. I will tell you right now: 80% of that defense's success came from Kapron Lewis-Moore. He's a real difference maker. 

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAqWl2U1F_s

 

Watch the video. This is a VERY good. Lewis-Moore is #89. Matt Kalil, the beast of a LT the Vikings drafted last year is #75. Go ahead and watch how he plays and tell me how you feel about him.

 

He does VERY well against Kalil. I am telling you all that we just got a real STEAL in the 6th round. I would take him over any WR we could have had there. We can focus on offense next year. 

[rlh445]

Yeah, I think that may be a reason why we neglected the WR position this year. I actually liked his draft a lot. See, the brilliance is we just RELOADED our entire defense. Our defense should be set for YEARS. Simon is a beast, man. He should be able to get great numbers. He can develop slowly. We could even move him into a DE, like we tried with Kruger. I wouldn't be at all surprised. I really like Simon a lot. He was one of my favorite prospects in the entire draft.

Then, we got Lewis-Moore. It's so hard for me to say this--it really is. It hurts me to say it, but I think us acquiring Kapron Lewis-Moore was probably the best pick of our entire draft. That guy is one of the best DEs I have seen in football from a leadership perspective as well as talent. He has both of those things. He played REALLY well against good competition. I watched a lot of Notre Dame football, partly because my friend's a HUGE fan & alumni & I wanted to watch Manti Te'o. I will tell you right now: 80% of that defense's success came from Kapron Lewis-Moore. He's a real difference maker.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zAqWl2U1F_s

Watch the video. This is a VERY good. Lewis-Moore is #89. Matt Kalil, the beast of a LT the Vikings drafted last year is #75. Go ahead and watch how he plays and tell me how you feel about him.

He does VERY well against Kalil. I am telling you all that we just got a real STEAL in the 6th round. I would take him over any WR we could have had there. We can focus on offense next year.

Lol your optimism is admirable and infectious. You know what though? Every year we hear, 'next hear guys, we'll fuss with offense next year,' and then we go and have a defensive draft. Whatevs. I'm sure we will make it work. Pitta, Rice, Torrey, heck maybe Jusczyk will see us through.

[PolishRifle]

Yeah, I think that may be a reason why we neglected the WR position this year. I actually liked his draft a lot. See, the brilliance is we just RELOADED our entire defense.

You don't have to sell me on this years draft. I was satisfied after Elam and Brown already. But we are talking about the WR situation here.

The defense and Joes ability to make big plays out of nowhere and our ProBowl RB will get us to the playoffs, but the lack of star WRs will prevent us from getting to the SB, imho. Maybe, there is a small chance that we make it regardless, if Flacco surpasses our wildest dreams, but then he will be winning the SB in spite of our receivers.

Getting to the playoffs every season, means we will be in the lower half of the draft board every season, which means we would have to trade a ton of picks to get anywhere close to legitimate star WR, which means Ozzie will most likely not do it, because WR are huge risk-reward picks and Ozzie likes his first pick to be save, which means we will never have a great passing game unless a great WR falls into our lap in FA like Doom did this season.

 

I don't blame this years draft for our lack in WR. I blame all of them, but 2010 specifically.

[GrimCoconut]

You don't have to sell me on this years draft. I was satisfied after Elam and Brown already. But we are talking about the WR situation here.

The defense and Joes ability to make big plays out of nowhere and our ProBowl RB will get us to the playoffs, but the lack of star WRs will prevent us from getting to the SB, imho. Maybe, there is a small chance that we make it regardless, if Flacco surpasses our wildest dreams, but then he will be winning the SB in spite of our receivers.

Getting to the playoffs every season, means we will be in the lower half of the draft board every season, which means we would have to trade a ton of picks to get anywhere close to legitimate star WR, which means Ozzie will most likely not do it, because WR are huge risk-reward picks and Ozzie likes his first pick to be save, which means we will never have a great passing game unless a great WR falls into our lap in FA like Doom did this season.

 

I don't blame this years draft for our lack in WR. I blame all of them, but 2010 specifically.

Well, I agree there. I'm bummed we didn't get Dez. I really wanted him something bad.He was my favorite player in that draft after Earl Thomas. 

[SecretAgentMan]

Well, I agree there. I'm bummed we didn't get Dez. I really wanted him something bad.He was my favorite player in that draft after Earl Thomas. 

I'm pissed that we got Sergio instead of Washington, Dickson instead of Jimmy G, and Cody instead of Geno Atkins

 
That's just me though :P

[GrimCoconut]

Lol your optimism is admirable and infectious. You know what though? Every year we hear, 'next hear guys, we'll fuss with offense next year,' and then we go and have a defensive draft. Whatevs. I'm sure we will make it work. Pitta, Rice, Torrey, heck maybe Jusczyk will see us through.

Hmm.

 

Let's look at this, shall we?

 

2007 Draft: Ben Grubbs (1), Yamon Figurs (3), Marshal Yanda (3), Antwan Barnes (4), Le'Ron McClain (4), Troy Smith (5), Prescott Burgess (6). I count 5 offensive players drafted. Our first three picks were all offense. 

 

 

2008 Draft: Joe Flacco (1), Ray Rice (2), Tavares Gooden (3), Tom Zbikowski (3), Oniel Cousins (3), Marcus Smith (4), David Hale (4), Haruki Nakamura (6), Justin Harper (7), Allen Patrick (7) Our first two picks were offensive players. Next two defense. Then we have three consecutive picks for offense. Then one defense. The two more offense. That's a total of 7 offensive & 3 defensive players. 

 

2009 Draft: Michael Oher (1), Paul Kruger (2), Lardarius Webb (3), Jason Phillips (5), Davon Drew (5), Cedric Peerman (6) We drafted 1 offensive player high, then next three picks were defensive players, followed by two offensive players. That's a total of 3 offensive & 3 defensive players. 

 

2010 Draft: Sergio Kindle (2), Terrence Cody (2), Ed Dickson (3), Dennis Pitta (4), David Reed (5), Arthur Jones (5), Ramon Harewood (6). Two high picks on defense, next three on offense, one defense, one offense. That's 3 defensive & 4 offensive players. 

 

2011 Draft: Jimmy Smith (1), Torrey Smith (2), Jah Reid (3), Tandon Doss (4), Chykie Brown (5), Pernell McPhee (5), Tyrod Taylor (6), Anthony Allen (7). Highest pick on defense, followed by three consecutive offensive picks then two defensive selections & finished with two offensive selections. That's a total of 3 defensive players & 5 offensive players. 

 

2012 Draft: Courtney Upshaw (2), Kelechi Osemele (2), Bernard Pierce (3), Gino Gradkowski (4), Christian Thompson (4), Asa Jackson (5), Tommy Streeter (6), DeAngelo Tyson (7). Highest pick on defense, then three consecutive picks on offense, two consecutive picks on defense, then one offense & one defense. That's a total of 4 defensive players & 4 offensive players. 

 

I don't know what you are talking about when you say we always say "Next year we'll go offense." I think I just proved you completely wrong. 

[SizzleXLVII]

Hmm.
 
Let's look at this, shall we?
 
2007 Draft: Ben Grubbs (1), Yamon Figurs (3), Marshal Yanda (3), Antwan Barnes (4), Le'Ron McClain (4), Troy Smith (5), Prescott Burgess (6). I count 5 offensive players drafted. Our first three picks were all offense. 
 
 
2008 Draft: Joe Flacco (1), Ray Rice (2), Tavares Gooden (3), Tom Zbikowski (3), Oniel Cousins (3), Marcus Smith (4), David Hale (4), Haruki Nakamura (6), Justin Harper (7), Allen Patrick (7) Our first two picks were offensive players. Next two defense. Then we have three consecutive picks for offense. Then one defense. The two more offense. That's a total of 7 offensive & 3 defensive players. 
 
2009 Draft: Michael Oher (1), Paul Kruger (2), Lardarius Webb (3), Jason Phillips (5), Davon Drew (5), Cedric Peerman (6) We drafted 1 offensive player high, then next three picks were defensive players, followed by two offensive players. That's a total of 3 offensive & 3 defensive players. 
 
2010 Draft: Sergio Kindle (2), Terrence Cody (2), Ed Dickson (3), Dennis Pitta (4), David Reed (5), Arthur Jones (5), Ramon Harewood (6). Two high picks on defense, next three on offense, one defense, one offense. That's 3 defensive & 4 offensive players. 
 
2011 Draft: Jimmy Smith (1), Torrey Smith (2), Jah Reid (3), Tandon Doss (4), Chykie Brown (5), Pernell McPhee (5), Tyrod Taylor (6), Anthony Allen (7). Highest pick on defense, followed by three consecutive offensive picks then two defensive selections & finished with two offensive selections. That's a total of 3 defensive players & 5 offensive players. 
 
2012 Draft: Courtney Upshaw (2), Kelechi Osemele (2), Bernard Pierce (3), Gino Gradkowski (4), Christian Thompson (4), Asa Jackson (5), Tommy Streeter (6), DeAngelo Tyson (7). Highest pick on defense, then three consecutive picks on offense, two consecutive picks on defense, then one offense & one defense. That's a total of 4 defensive players & 4 offensive players. 
 
I don't know what you are talking about when you say we always say "Next year we'll go offense." I think I just proved you completely wrong.

In fairness we've only picked 2 receivers in the first 3 rounds in the past 6 years which is a bit concerning considering only one of our receiver picks has actually (so far) worked out. Maybe we're just more confident picking a trenches player because they're much safer picks.

[rlh445]

Hmm.

Let's look at this, shall we?

2007 Draft: Ben Grubbs (1), Yamon Figurs (3), Marshal Yanda (3), Antwan Barnes (4), Le'Ron McClain (4), Troy Smith (5), Prescott Burgess (6). I count 5 offensive players drafted. Our first three picks were all offense.


2008 Draft: Joe Flacco (1), Ray Rice (2), Tavares Gooden (3), Tom Zbikowski (3), Oniel Cousins (3), Marcus Smith (4), David Hale (4), Haruki Nakamura (6), Justin Harper (7), Allen Patrick (7) Our first two picks were offensive players. Next two defense. Then we have three consecutive picks for offense. Then one defense. The two more offense. That's a total of 7 offensive & 3 defensive players.

2009 Draft: Michael Oher (1), Paul Kruger (2), Lardarius Webb (3), Jason Phillips (5), Davon Drew (5), Cedric Peerman (6) We drafted 1 offensive player high, then next three picks were defensive players, followed by two offensive players. That's a total of 3 offensive & 3 defensive players.

2010 Draft: Sergio Kindle (2), Terrence Cody (2), Ed Dickson (3), Dennis Pitta (4), David Reed (5), Arthur Jones (5), Ramon Harewood (6). Two high picks on defense, next three on offense, one defense, one offense. That's 3 defensive & 4 offensive players.

2011 Draft: Jimmy Smith (1), Torrey Smith (2), Jah Reid (3), Tandon Doss (4), Chykie Brown (5), Pernell McPhee (5), Tyrod Taylor (6), Anthony Allen (7). Highest pick on defense, followed by three consecutive offensive picks then two defensive selections & finished with two offensive selections. That's a total of 3 defensive players & 5 offensive players.

2012 Draft: Courtney Upshaw (2), Kelechi Osemele (2), Bernard Pierce (3), Gino Gradkowski (4), Christian Thompson (4), Asa Jackson (5), Tommy Streeter (6), DeAngelo Tyson (7). Highest pick on defense, then three consecutive picks on offense, two consecutive picks on defense, then one offense & one defense. That's a total of 4 defensive players & 4 offensive players.

I don't know what you are talking about when you say we always say "Next year we'll go offense." I think I just proved you completely wrong.

Its the quality of the picks, not the quantity Grim.

[Ed_Reed20]

You don't have to sell me on this years draft. I was satisfied after Elam and Brown already. But we are talking about the WR situation here.

The defense and Joes ability to make big plays out of nowhere and our ProBowl RB will get us to the playoffs, but the lack of star WRs will prevent us from getting to the SB, imho. Maybe, there is a small chance that we make it regardless, if Flacco surpasses our wildest dreams, but then he will be winning the SB in spite of our receivers.

Getting to the playoffs every season, means we will be in the lower half of the draft board every season, which means we would have to trade a ton of picks to get anywhere close to legitimate star WR, which means Ozzie will most likely not do it, because WR are huge risk-reward picks and Ozzie likes his first pick to be save, which means we will never have a great passing game unless a great WR falls into our lap in FA like Doom did this season.

 

I don't blame this years draft for our lack in WR. I blame all of them, but 2010 specifically.

 

You're assuming a lot by saying the the team won't ever field a great passing game unless they sign a great FA WR. Just look at how the Steelers, Pack and Giants have developed their passing games since '08. Not only have they spent just one first-round pick on a WR combined (Nicks in '09), they've been confident enough to start seasons fielding young, relatively unproven WRs -- which is just what this team is on course to do. 

 

I'm not going to fully dismiss the likes of Doss, Streeter and Thompson from developing into consistent contributors because none of them have seen enough opportunities to be fairly judged, especially by us fans. 

 

On a related note, does no one believe Torrey can take his game to another level and become a go-to WR? 

[Ravenslifer]

Hmm.

 

Let's look at this, shall we?

 

2007 Draft: Ben Grubbs (1), Yamon Figurs (3), Marshal Yanda (3), Antwan Barnes (4), Le'Ron McClain (4), Troy Smith (5), Prescott Burgess (6). I count 5 offensive players drafted. Our first three picks were all offense. 

 

 

2008 Draft: Joe Flacco (1), Ray Rice (2), Tavares Gooden (3), Tom Zbikowski (3), Oniel Cousins (3), Marcus Smith (4), David Hale (4), Haruki Nakamura (6), Justin Harper (7), Allen Patrick (7) Our first two picks were offensive players. Next two defense. Then we have three consecutive picks for offense. Then one defense. The two more offense. That's a total of 7 offensive & 3 defensive players. 

 

2009 Draft: Michael Oher (1), Paul Kruger (2), Lardarius Webb (3), Jason Phillips (5), Davon Drew (5), Cedric Peerman (6) We drafted 1 offensive player high, then next three picks were defensive players, followed by two offensive players. That's a total of 3 offensive & 3 defensive players. 

 

2010 Draft: Sergio Kindle (2), Terrence Cody (2), Ed Dickson (3), Dennis Pitta (4), David Reed (5), Arthur Jones (5), Ramon Harewood (6). Two high picks on defense, next three on offense, one defense, one offense. That's 3 defensive & 4 offensive players. 

 

2011 Draft: Jimmy Smith (1), Torrey Smith (2), Jah Reid (3), Tandon Doss (4), Chykie Brown (5), Pernell McPhee (5), Tyrod Taylor (6), Anthony Allen (7). Highest pick on defense, followed by three consecutive offensive picks then two defensive selections & finished with two offensive selections. That's a total of 3 defensive players & 5 offensive players. 

 

2012 Draft: Courtney Upshaw (2), Kelechi Osemele (2), Bernard Pierce (3), Gino Gradkowski (4), Christian Thompson (4), Asa Jackson (5), Tommy Streeter (6), DeAngelo Tyson (7). Highest pick on defense, then three consecutive picks on offense, two consecutive picks on defense, then one offense & one defense. That's a total of 4 defensive players & 4 offensive players. 

 

I don't know what you are talking about when you say we always say "Next year we'll go offense." I think I just proved you completely wrong. 

 

 

Think his point was more along the lines of WRs and TEs, not offensive linemen and running backs.

[GrimCoconut]

In fairness we've only picked 2 receivers in the first 3 rounds in the past 6 years which is a bit concerning considering only one of our receiver picks has actually (so far) worked out. Maybe we're just more confident picking a trenches player because they're much safer picks.

2007 Draft:

Calvin Johnson, Ted Ginn Jr, Dwayne Bowe, Robert Meachem, BEN GRUBBS (RAVENS PICK), Craig Davis, Anthony Gonzalez, Sidney Rice, Dwayne Jarrett, Steve Smith, Jacoby Jones, YAMON FIGURS (RAVENS), Laurent Robinson, Jason Hill, James Jones, Mike Sims-Walker, Paul Williams, Johnnie Lee Higgins. Who did we miss out on here? I put our picks so you guys could see who we didn't get. We had no shot at Megatron, nor really Bowe. 

 

That's one year, but you get the idea. It's not easy to scout WRs. It's one of the positions with the most busts & failures in the NFL. It's so hard to transition the talent & scout the talent. It's not easy. 

[rlh445]

You're assuming a lot by saying the the team won't ever field a great passing game unless they sign a great FA WR. Just look at how the Steelers, Pack and Giants have developed their passing games since '08. Not only have they spent just one first-round pick on a WR combined (Nicks in '09), they've been confident enough to start seasons fielding young, relatively unproven WRs -- which is just what this team is on course to do.

I'm not going to fully dismiss the likes of Doss, Streeter and Thompson from developing into consistent contributors because none of them have seen enough opportunities to be fairly judged, especially by us fans.

On a related note, does no one believe Torrey can take his game to another level and become a go-to WR?

I kind of thought Torrey already was :lol:.

[SecretAgentMan]

I think Doss will surprise a lot of you..

 

 

If a few bad plays define a career, then everyone sucks

[GrimCoconut]

Its the quality of the picks, not the quantity Grim.

Who would you have wanted us to get? It's not an easy task to scout a WR. It's one of the hardest things to do. There are plenty of WRs who have busted & failed to make the transition to the NFL. WR & CB are two of the positions with the most busts. The failure rate is high. Of course any position has busts. I know that. I'm just saying it's a big risk. Any pick has a risk. Do I think Ozzie plays it safe? Yeah. I don't think he's great at scouting WRs, or at least the scouts aren't. I think they are actually getting better, though. I have some promise. We'll have to see. I think if the guys we've drafted pan out, then I'll be willing to forgive Ozzie's past failures at WR. There's no doubt he plays it safe when it comes to the 1st round. He doesn't seem to like taking WRs there for some reason, probably because he's been burned a lot by them. 

 

I would love to see us get a guy like Marqise Lee, though. I'd trade up for him. I'm on board with that idea. I think it's time we try to make a move for a legit, true, #1 rated prospect, like Dimitroff did with Jones. It's a big risk, but there's an even bigger reward. I'd be willing to do it for Marqise Lee. 

[Ravenslifer]

You're assuming a lot by saying the the team won't ever field a great passing game unless they sign a great FA WR. Just look at how the Steelers, Pack and Giants have developed their passing games since '08. Not only have they spent just one first-round pick on a WR combined (Nicks in '09), they've been confident enough to start seasons fielding young, relatively unproven WRs -- which is just what this team is on course to do. 

 

I'm not going to fully dismiss the likes of Doss, Streeter and Thompson from developing into consistent contributors because none of them have seen enough opportunities to be fairly judged, especially by us fans. 

 

On a related note, does no one believe Torrey can take his game to another level and become a go-to WR? 

 

One first round pick, but multiple second and third round picks i.e. Randall Cobb, Mike Wallace, Emmanuel Sanders, Limas Sweed, Reuben Randle, Jerrelle Jernigan.  It's not necessarily the first round pick, but Eric Decosta has pointed out several times, and I assume other teams feel this way, that rounds 1-3 you are expecting to draft guys you feel are starting caliber players in this league, while in the later rounds you are taking risks on guys hoping they pan out, but not expecting starting caliber talent.  So far in Joe's career we've drafted only Torrey.  I'm not saying it's right or wrong, and the Ravens are always one of the best drafting teams every single year, but the fact is looking around at the other teams in this league, the ones who draft quarterbacks do what they can to put several seasons worth of early picks at WR and TE around their quarterbacks, while we haven't.  Again, I love what we did in the last few drafts, but regarding Joe in particular, this front office has not, in my opinion, made a concerted effort in the way other organizations have, in trying to put as many talented pass catchers around him as possible.  They've done a good job, but not to the extent of other teams - they just haven't.  Just saying that when I look at Joe, I also keep in mind that a team like Atlanta has no problem burning it's entire draft on a receiver for Matt Ryan, but the Ravens will NEVER reach for a player, even if he can help Joe.

[CMC]

Its the quality of the picks, not the quantity Grim.

We have had alot of quality non "skill position" offensive picks recently. Our notable skill guys are Joe, Ray, Torrey and Dennis ofcourse.

[GrimCoconut]

You're assuming a lot by saying the the team won't ever field a great passing game unless they sign a great FA WR. Just look at how the Steelers, Pack and Giants have developed their passing games since '08. Not only have they spent just one first-round pick on a WR combined (Nicks in '09), they've been confident enough to start seasons fielding young, relatively unproven WRs -- which is just what this team is on course to do. 

 

I'm not going to fully dismiss the likes of Doss, Streeter and Thompson from developing into consistent contributors because none of them have seen enough opportunities to be fairly judged, especially by us fans. 

 

On a related note, does no one believe Torrey can take his game to another level and become a go-to WR? 

I've been saying for a while now that I believe this is the year Torrey Smith becomes a true #1 WR. He made big leaps last year. His mind is the right one we need. He is the kind of player I admire. He's truly a very good person. He works hard. He's everything I would want my WR to be. Everything. I think this is the year he puts everything together & is the #1 WR on this team & is recognized as a true #1 threat by every team we face. I think Boldin's success came largely from Smith's success--not the other way around. 

[PolishRifle]

I would love to see us get a guy like Marqise Lee, though. I'd trade up for him. I'm on board with that idea. I think it's time we try to make a move for a legit, true, #1 rated prospect, like Dimitroff did with Jones. It's a big risk, but there's an even bigger reward. I'd be willing to do it for Marqise Lee. 

Thx. Atleast someone, who gets it. I never said I didn't like the guys we got in this draft. Even, if I would have liked us to get Patton by trading up a few spots (I know, I should be over it by now, but we were just one spot away...argh).

I just complained, that we spend almost every single draft heavily favoring the defense. It's safe, it plays to Ozzie's strengths, but I also have seen it impact our chances on getting to the SB.

Flacco-to-Boldin played a huge role in us winning. Lee Evans played a huge part in us falling short.

[rlh445]

Who would you have wanted us to get? It's not an easy task to scout a WR. It's one of the hardest things to do. There are plenty of WRs who have busted & failed to make the transition to the NFL. WR & CB are two of the positions with the most busts. The failure rate is high. Of course any position has busts. I know that. I'm just saying it's a big risk. Any pick has a risk. Do I think Ozzie plays it safe? Yeah. I don't think he's great at scouting WRs, or at least the scouts aren't. I think they are actually getting better, though. I have some promise. We'll have to see. I think if the guys we've drafted pan out, then I'll be willing to forgive Ozzie's past failures at WR. There's no doubt he plays it safe when it comes to the 1st round. He doesn't seem to like taking WRs there for some reason, probably because he's been burned a lot by them.

I would love to see us get a guy like Marqise Lee, though. I'd trade up for him. I'm on board with that idea. I think it's time we try to make a move for a legit, true, #1 rated prospect, like Dimitroff did with Jones. It's a big risk, but there's an even bigger reward. I'd be willing to do it for Marqise Lee.

Yes I know....there's a risk for every player drafted period, that isn't just reserved for wide outs (oh you already said this, sorry on my phone). I guess with Ozzie I just always end up saying "Maybe this year Oz will say screw it and jump to get a legit wideout for our franchise QB instead of being content with fifth and later picks and cheap old guys" and just disappoint myself. Yea see like your idea about Marquise Lee..even just a shot at a guy like that is all I want. Just one good shot. I mean we already took a shot and look how much Torrey has blossomed!

[GrimCoconut]

Thx. Atleast someone, who gets it. I never said I didn't like the guys we got in this draft. Even, if I would have liked us to get Patton by trading up a few spots (I know, I should be over it by now, but we were just one spot away...argh).

I just complained, that we spend almost every single draft heavily favoring the defense. It's safe, it plays to Ozzie's strengths, but I also have seen it impact our chances on getting to the SB.

Flacco-to-Boldin played a huge role in us winning. Lee Evans played a huge part in us falling short.

Actually, that's really not true. We've been really focused on offense ever since 2007. Only twice have we not gone really heavy on offense in the first 2-3 rounds since 2007. That includes every year except this year, of course. 

[CMC]

Well, I agree there. I'm bummed we didn't get Dez. I really wanted him something bad.He was my favorite player in that draft after Earl Thomas.

I was really high on both players in 2010. Earl was my dream first round pick. I remember seeing a few micks with us taking Earl.

During the 2010 draft Dez was clearly the BP left and I thought only one more pick. Ofcourse JJ had other ideas. Do you think we would have picked Dez? I thought he had off the field issues?

[GrimCoconut]

Yes I know....there's a risk for every player drafted period, that isn't just reserved for wide outs (oh you already said this, sorry on my phone). I guess with Ozzie I just always end up saying "Maybe this year Oz will say screw it and jump to get a legit wideout for our franchise QB instead of being content with fifth and later picks and cheap old guys" and just disappoint myself. Yea see like your idea about Marquise Lee..even just a shot at a guy like that is all I want. Just one good shot. I mean we already took a shot and look how much Torrey has blossomed!

Oh, I don't disagree. I think it's about time. With how we stacked our defense this year, I think we are absolutely set on that side of the ball for the next 4 years. I'm not joking. We just had the perfect draft for our defense & I don't think anyone realizes it, lol. Or maybe some of us are just so mad we BARELY missed out on Quinton Patton. But I'm not even sure if he was a guy we were targeting. I feel like if he was, we would have traded up for him like we did Arthur Brown. I think it's time to let Patton go, sadly.