Samari's 2009 Offseason Position-by-position Preview

[Samari]

Today: Quarterbacks and Running Backs

[b]Quarterbacks:[/b]

Baltimore has found it's franchise quarterback (seems like they've been looking for once since '96) in Joe Flacco, who had an impressive rookie season. Flacco's back-up, Troy Smith, provides flexibility in the offense with his athleticism as Baltimore has lined up both on the field at the same time (known endearingly as the "Suggs Package"). The projected starter for the 2008 season, Kyle Boller, was out for the season and is likely not coming back next year.

The third-string quarterback this year was Todd Bouman, who provided a veteran presence for Flacco to draw from. It is unknown whether Baltimore will retain Bouman or not, but if they don't, they should sign a veteran quarterback with winning experience such as Charlie Batch, Jamie Martin, or even Aaron Brooks.

[b]Current position grade: [/b]A (because for the first time, Ravens have certainty at that position)

[b]How to improve:[/b] Pick up a veteran presence such as Batch, Martin, or Brooks through free agency if Bouman can't be resigned.



[b]Running Backs:[/b]

The Ravens had a potent three-man running attack this season with Le'Ron McClain, Willis McGahee, and Ray Rice. McClain was little utilizited as a runner during his first season with Baltimore and during his tenure with the Alabama Crimson Tide, but Ravens offensive coordinator, Cam Cameron, saw something special in the young fullback and McClain's power running style earned him 902 yards, the most rushing yards for Baltimore this season.

The three-back system slowed McGahee's production a bit. McGahee, who had a 1,000 yard season in 2007 had 671 yards this year, but he still had shining moments. Still, after a solid playoff performance, including a workhorse game against Pittsburgh, it looks like McGahee is likely to stay and be a major part of Baltimore's offense next season.

Out of the three backs, Ray Rice was the best receiver out of the backfield and his change of speed running style helped provide a new dimension in Baltimore's running game.

The big question about the position is whether veteran fullback Lorenzo Neal will stay with the team next season. Neal was a great blocker this season, as he has been his entire career, and he provides a valuable veteran presence for the team. If Neal can't be retained, Baltimore really needs to look into acquiring a blocking fullback, either through the draft or free agency.

Rounding out the running back corps are speedy young backs P.J. Daniels and Jalen Parmele. Both backs can aid the team if the starters are banged up or struggling in a game.
[b]
Current Position Grade:[/b] A-

[b]How to improve:[/b] If Neal isn't going to be with the team next year, a blocking fullback is a true necessity. Signing a player like Naufahu Tahi or Terrelle Smith, or drafting one like Brannan Southerland out of Georgia in a later round would be a good course of action.


[url="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/113980-baltimore-ravens-2009-offseason-preview-quaterbacks-and-running-backs"]http://bleacherreport.com/articles/113980-...d-running-backs[/url]

[FlaccosFlock]

[quote name='Samari' post='143448' date='Jan 21 2009, 09:42 PM']Today: Quarterbacks and Running Backs

[b]Quarterbacks:[/b]

Baltimore has found it's franchise quarterback (seems like they've been looking for once since '96) in Joe Flacco, who had an impressive rookie season. Flacco's back-up, Troy Smith, provides flexibility in the offense with his athleticism as Baltimore has lined up both on the field at the same time (known endearingly as the "Suggs Package"). The projected starter for the 2008 season, Kyle Boller, was out for the season and is likely not coming back next year.

The third-string quarterback this year was Todd Bouman, who provided a veteran presence for Flacco to draw from. It is unknown whether Baltimore will retain Bouman or not, but if they don't, they should sign a veteran quarterback with winning experience such as Charlie Batch, Jamie Martin, or even Aaron Brooks.

[b]Current position grade: [/b]A (because for the first time, Ravens have certainty at that position)

[b]How to improve:[/b] Pick up a veteran presence such as Batch, Martin, or Brooks through free agency if Bouman can't be resigned.



[b]Running Backs:[/b]

The Ravens had a potent three-man running attack this season with Le'Ron McClain, Willis McGahee, and Ray Rice. McClain was little utilizited as a runner during his first season with Baltimore and during his tenure with the Alabama Crimson Tide, but Ravens offensive coordinator, Cam Cameron, saw something special in the young fullback and McClain's power running style earned him 902 yards, the most rushing yards for Baltimore this season.

The three-back system slowed McGahee's production a bit. McGahee, who had a 1,000 yard season in 2007 had 671 yards this year, but he still had shining moments. Still, after a solid playoff performance, including a workhorse game against Pittsburgh, it looks like McGahee is likely to stay and be a major part of Baltimore's offense next season.

Out of the three backs, Ray Rice was the best receiver out of the backfield and his change of speed running style helped provide a new dimension in Baltimore's running game.

The big question about the position is whether veteran fullback Lorenzo Neal will stay with the team next season. Neal was a great blocker this season, as he has been his entire career, and he provides a valuable veteran presence for the team. If Neal can't be retained, Baltimore really needs to look into acquiring a blocking fullback, either through the draft or free agency.

Rounding out the running back corps are speedy young backs P.J. Daniels and Jalen Parmele. Both backs can aid the team if the starters are banged up or struggling in a game.
[b]
Current Position Grade:[/b] A-

[b]How to improve:[/b] If Neal isn't going to be with the team next year, a blocking fullback is a true necessity. Signing a player like Naufahu Tahi or Terrelle Smith, or drafting one like Brannan Southerland out of Georgia in a later round would be a good course of action.


[url="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/113980-baltimore-ravens-2009-offseason-preview-quaterbacks-and-running-backs"]http://bleacherreport.com/articles/113980-...d-running-backs[/url][/quote]

I like your analysis of these two positions. Can't wait to see what else you put on here.

[shaikh015]

How do you suggest the ravens utilize the first 4 draft picks?

[flynismo]

[quote name='shaikh015' post='143551' date='Jan 22 2009, 04:09 AM']How do you suggest the ravens utilize the first 4 draft picks?[/quote]

WR, CB, OL, DE

[PuRock]

[quote name='flynismo' post='144269' date='Jan 23 2009, 11:30 AM']WR, CB, OL, DE[/quote]

On the OL, Don't forget that we drafted Oniel Cousins in the third round last year. I don't think he played a snap this year. But he's got the size and raw skills to be a good Tackle.

[catty112]

[quote name='PuRock' post='144276' date='Jan 23 2009, 11:38 AM']On the OL, Don't forget that we drafted Oniel Cousins last year. I don't think he played a snap this year. But he's got the size and raw skills to be a good Tackle.[/quote]


Yeah Im hoping he gives Terry a run for his money in TC, that is if Big Willie hangs it up or can longer play at the starters level. I like Oniel Cousins and hopefully we can develep him and have a tight knit young O-Line to grow with Joe for awhile.

Gaither-Grubbs-Brown-Yanda-Cousins

[20ravens52]

Oneil Cousins is going to be a beast in a year or two. He has got all the tools to be a mauling run blocker on the right side of the line. But, he should probably gain 10-15 pounds.

[Samari]

Today: WR and TE

[b]Wide Receivers:[/b]

Baltimore's receiving corps has played very well this season and made Joe Flacco's transition to the NFL easier. This year's wide outs were one of the, if not the, best receiving corps in Ravens history.

Flacco's main target was the mind-blowingly consistent veteran Derrick Mason. Mason, who has not missed a game since 2002, had 80 receptions for 1037 yards and 5 touchdowns. One of the most impressive moments of the season is Mason's play after the week 10 Houston game in which he dislocated his shoulder, yet continued to be a tough target.

A great bounce-back season for Baltimore this year was Mark Clayton. After a disappointing 2007 campaign in which he had only 531 receiving yards and no touchdowns, Clayton had 695 yards this season and 3 touchdowns. While those numbers won't blow you away, it was Clayton's play a whole and his regained confidence that made this a really good season for the 4th year receiver. He also showed his versitality in reverse plays where he ran the ball and an impressive touchdown throw to Derrick Mason off a trick play in a game against Cincinnati.

Rounding out the receiving corps for Baltimore was Demetrius Williams, Marcus Smith, Yamon Figurs, Terrance Copper and Marcus Maxwell. Williams played well for 7 games before being placed on injured reserve and he should be a part of the team's future. Smith is a rookie who had no receptions (he was criticized for having poor hands in the draft). He was mainly utilized on special teams (had 6 tackles this season) and occasionally lined up as a slot receiver, but didn't have many balls thrown his way. Figurs is a speedster and a returner, but wasn't used much as a receiver until Williams was injured. He only had one reception, but it was for a touchdown. Copper and Maxwell were extras who probably will not be on the team next season.

There is a good chance that Baltimore will draft a wide receiver with their first round pick this draft. They hold the 26th pick and a good fit for them would be Jeremy Maclin from Missouri or Percy Harvin from Florida. With one of them on the team next season, they can form an explosive tandem with Mark Clayton and Mason as the third receiver can make good plays as well.

[b]Position Grade: B [/b](some inconsistency when the wide outs wouldn't step in some games; injuries were a problem)
[b]
How to improve: [/b]Ravens should take a receiver in the first round such as Maclin or Harvin, giving Joe Flacco a more potent offense to work with.



[b]Tight Ends:[/b]

The Ravens tight end group is very enigmatic. Todd Heap is still capable, but his production has gone down a bit in recent years. He was able to stay healthy this season, but only had 35 receptions for 409 yards, the least of his career when he plays all 16 games. 35 receptions this year compared to 23 last season when he only played 6 games. Heap needs to get back to his old form for next season; otherwise, Baltimore will have to look for a new tight end for the future.

Daniel Wilcox is a solid 2nd tight end, who provides a safety valve for Flacco in situations when he is in the game. As a matter of fact, Wilcox was on the receiving end of Flacco's first touchdown throw. He is solid as a receiver and decent as a blocker in the two tight-end formation.

A player forgotten by some on the Ravens is young tight end, Quinn Sypniewski. Sypniewski. In the 2007 season, when Heap and Wilcox were injured for a majority of the time, Sypniewski stepped up and played well, accumulating 35 receptions. He did not play in any games this season, as was on injured reserve due to a torn ACL, but he is expected to be back next season. He provides depth for the Ravens and a good passing option when he comes back. He and Wilcox may battle for the role as 2nd tight end. His blocking a bit suspect though.

There really isn't much reason for the Ravens to draft a tight end, this year. They will have to see how their guys play in 2009 to find out if they really need one. However, picking up a blocking tight end in a middle or late round like Davon Drew out of East Carolina wouldn't hurt for the running game and protection for Flacco.

[b]Position grade: B-[/b]

[b]How to improve: [/b]Perhaps picking up a blocking tight end in a mid-to-late round, but otherwise make sure Heap improves to get back to old form and keep Wilcox and Sypniewski in the gym and practice field, getting ready to compete for the job.



Next edition: Offensive Line

[url="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/115142-baltimore-ravens-2009-offseason-preview-wide-receivers-and-tight-ends"]http://bleacherreport.com/articles/115142-...-and-tight-ends[/url]

So, I'll discuss the line with Cousins and such by the next edition, so to speak.

[Whole-Gash]

I like what you have to say, only I don't feel that Maclin will be available when we draft. Also, if we draft a receiver I would like them to be on the taller side like maybe Hakeem Nicks but we'll see.

[CARavensFan]

The only thing I disagree on is Quinn, if I remember correctly he was drafted to be a blocking TE in 2006 for us and the way he stepped up when Heap and Wilcox went down on the passing and of the game was the real surprise. I think if we can get Heap and Quinn back together we might see a bit of the old Heap as Quinn would be able to take more of his blocking duties.

[Samari]

Offensive line

[b]Tackles:[/b]

Second-year left tackle, Jared Gaither was considered the heir-apparent to Jonathan Ogden when he retired. Gaither had a good season at the left tackle position, considering it was his first starting at that position and it looks like he will provide that consistency that Ogden provided for years to come.

At right tackle, the Ravens alternated fourth-year Ravens draft pick Adam Terry and veteran Willie Anderson. Anderson is in his first year with the team and provides much-needed leadership on a young line that needed it after the retirement of Ogden. Terry performed well and started towards the end of the season and playoffs, but there still may be some competition at that spot next year, whether Anderson returns or not.

[b]Tackles Grade: A-[/b]

[b]Guards:[/b]

At left guard was former first-round pick, second year guard Ben Grubbs. Grubbs had a fantastic year at left guard, neutralizing the opposing defensive tackles many games and providing big holes for McClain or McGahee to run through. When the Ravens ran the ball through the middle, they traditionally went towards the left side and it's no surprise considering Grubbs' play at guard.

At the start of the season, Baltimore's starter at right guard was Marshal Yanda, but a few games into the season, Yanda injured his knee and was placed on injured reserve. In his place was Chris Chester who was converted by the team to tight end at the start of the season. They changed him to guard again and Chester did well at the right guard spot and will compete with Yanda for the starting position next season.

[b]Guards Grade: B[/b]

[b]Center:[/b]

The center for Baltimore was Jason Brown, who is looking for a big pay-day this offseason. Brown was a force in the middle for the Baltimore's offensive line and has emerged as one of the top young centers in the league this season. Ravens will need to offer him a large contract or franchise him if they want to keep him.

[b]Center Grade: A[/b]

In the 2008 draft, Baltimore took linemen Oniel Cousins and David Hale in the third and fourth round, respectively. Neither started any games this season, but both played in some. Both have the ability to play tackle or guard, so they will both provide some competition for Yanda, Chester, and Terry next season.
[b]
Overall Line Grade: B+ [/b](Some injuries and the line is relatively young, but they helped make Flacco's adjustment to the league easier and helped the team establish a strong running game).

[b]How to improve: [/b]If they can't retain Jason Brown, they will need an answer at center. The center pool in this year's draft is pretty deep, so taking one in the third or fourth round would be one solution. Also, if Anderson doesn't return next season, they may need to sign a player for veteran leadership.



Next Edition: Defensive Line


[url="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/116779-2009-baltimore-ravens-offseason-preview-offensive-line"]http://bleacherreport.com/articles/116779-...-offensive-line[/url]

[Samari]

D-Line:

As the Ravens played both a 3-4 and 4-3 defense, they had different players alternating at both the defensive tackle and defensive end position

[b]Tackles[/b]:

The leader of the defensive line this season was third-year tackle Haloti Ngata. Ngata emerged as one of the best defensive tackles in the league. He had 55 tackles this season. Although he only had one sack, it does not tell the entire story. Ngata was a tremendous run-stuffer and great at putting pressure on the passer all season. He also displayed his versatility picking up two interceptions for the season which is amazing for a defensive lineman, breaking up five passes, and was even utilitzed on offense as an extra blocker. He will be a Pro-Bowler soon enough and a mainstay on the Ravens' defensive line.

When Baltimore played a 4-3 defense, they moved seventh-year lineman Justin Bannan inside as a tackle. As a tackle, Bannan did an good job, forming a great run-stuff duo with Ngata and helping the group bring pressure on pass plays. It seems clear that Bannan does better as a 3-4 end than as a 4-3 tackle, but he is capable at both positions.

Bannan had to step up as a starter this season for the injured Kelly Gregg. Gregg was on injured reserve all season due to a knee injury. He is one of the better defensive tackles in the league when healthy, so it will be interesting to see what Baltimore will do with so much depth next year.

As an insurance replacement for Gregg, the team signed third-year tackle Brandon McKinney. He was not used much, but he did gather eleven tackles in eleven games played. He may be brought back next year simply for depth.

[b]Position Grade: A-[/b]

[b]
How to improve: [/b]Keep Ngata doing what he has been doing and you will have a Pro-Bowler for years to come. There may be some competition at the 2nd tackle spot next season as Bannan did well in Gregg's absence, so watch for that. Some more sacks from the interior linemen next season would be an improvement.


[b]Defensive Ends:[/b]

In the 3-4, the ends were Trevor Pryce and Justin Bannan. In the 4-3, they were Trevor Pryce and Terrell Suggs.

Pryce is a veteran in his twelvth year in the league, but he is still playing at a high level. He picked up 27 tackles and 4.5 sacks this season, and was great as a pass-rusher. He also provided a great deal of leadership and experience not only to the line, but the defense as a whole.

Bannan did a great job as a defensive end, accumulating 45 tackles, one sack, and the first interception of his career. As an end, he was very skilled at making quick moves at the snap to throw the offensive tackle off and getting to the quarterback quicker. As a run-supporter, he was as good as any of Baltimore's linemen.

Next to Bannan in the 4-3 is the man affectionately known as T-Sizzle. Terrell Suggs re-emerged after a somewhat disappointing 2007 campaign where he only had five sacks with a 69 tackle, eight sack season. While he was utilized as a linebacker more than an end, he did not disappoint when he was put on the line. He is as good as ever as a pass-rusher and once again, did not miss an entire game this season. He also showed his toughness by playing in the AFC Championship game (and playing very well) despite essentially going out there with one arm. It would be detrimental to the team if they are not able to retain him for next season.

Rounding out the defensive line is veteran Marques Douglas who is in his third tenure with the Ravens. He did well on both defense and special teams this season, gathering 36 tackles for the season. He provides experience and depth for the line and is worth keeping.
[b]
Position Grade: A-[/b]

How to improve: I'm going to bold and underline this for emphasis: [b][u]retain Terrell Suggs![/u][/b] He is way too important to this team on all accounts to let go. If worst-case scenario happens and they can't keep him, drafting an end isn't a necessity as they will probably draft a linebacker to replace him and stay in the 3-4 more, but they will need more depth. But keeping Suggs should one the top priorities, if not the top priority this offseason.



[b]Next Edition: The one you've been waiting for: Linebackers (therefore, even more T-Sizzle)[/b]

[url="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/120283-2009-baltimore-ravens-offseason-preview-defensive-line"]http://bleacherreport.com/articles/120283-...-defensive-line[/url]

[Samari]

[quote name='Whole-Gash' post='144947' date='Jan 25 2009, 01:16 AM']I like what you have to say, only I don't feel that Maclin will be available when we draft. Also, if we draft a receiver I would like them to be on the taller side like maybe Hakeem Nicks but we'll see.[/quote]
Yea, it's looking more and more like JMac will be gone before the 20s, probably cuz Ol' Crazy Al will fall in love with his 40 time and take him with the 7th pick. But you're right, guys like Nicks and even Britt out of Rutgers would be good choices at 26.


[quote name='CARavensFan' post='145259' date='Jan 26 2009, 02:42 AM']The only thing I disagree on is Quinn, if I remember correctly he was drafted to be a blocking TE in 2006 for us and the way he stepped up when Heap and Wilcox went down on the passing and of the game was the real surprise. I think if we can get Heap and Quinn back together we might see a bit of the old Heap as Quinn would be able to take more of his blocking duties.[/quote]
It will definitely be interesting to see what will happen with that situation. A lot of mock drafts have the Ravens taking a tight end somewhere, but I really don't see it happening with this depth other than maybe another blocker, but if Quinn is as good as you say he was (I dunno, his blocking looked weak at times to me), then it won't be necessary.

[Samari]

Backers baby

The Ravens have always had a great defense throughout their team history. A great defense depends on a great linebacking corps. The Ravens have always have had great a great linebacking corps to make a great defense. This year, the Ravens had a great defense due in great part to their great linebacking corps.

Sorry if that was confusing and/or idiotic for some of you.

Basically, this year, the Ravens linebackers played very well on all accounts.

The leader and most recognizable face of the Ravens, Ray Lewis, had a personal renaissance this season. He played in all 16 games for the first time since 2003 and led the defense to be one of the best in the NFL.

However, he is currently a free agent and is not a fan of the "hometown discount" that some with the Ravens are discussing. He is openly talking about a move to the Jets or Cowboys which irks some Ravens fans.

However, the Ravens brass are open to any move to keep Ray around, which is proven by their recent moves such as releasing Chris McAlister to free up cap room and potentially franchising Terrell Suggs.

Speaking of Mr. T-Sizzle, Suggs was another player who had a great year. The Pro-Bowler had 69 tackles, 8 sacks, and 2 interceptions, both of which were returned for touchdowns. He also showed his toughness in the AFC Championship Game against Pittsburgh where he played very well despite a strained shoulder.

As previously stated, the Ravens are prepared to franchise Suggs within the next couple of days in order to gain more cap flexibility to sign Lewis and Jason Brown. Suggs was franchised at the start of this season and was not happy about it, but considering that he brought up the "hometown discount" suggestion and will most likely get a better contract with the Ravens this time next year, he'll probably be a much happier camper now.

The inside linebacker alongside Lewis this season was Bart Scott, who had a good, although not spectacular season. Scott had 82 tackles and 1.5 sacks and made some big plays, but was not a game-changer such as Lewis or Suggs. He seems more like a product of a great Ravens defensive system which is quite prevalent in Ravens history.

Scott is willing to take less for the Ravens, but he can easily get a big pay-day from multiple teams. He is not as big of a priority to keep for the team as Lewis, Brown, or Suggs at this moment and if he is to walk for more money, look for Baltimore to take an inside backer in the draft or groom Tavares Gooden for that position.

Speaking of Tavares Gooden, let's talk about Tavares Gooden. The third-round rookie from Miami only played in four games this season, before being placing on injured reserve with a hip injury.

He managed to get five tackles on the season, mainly on special teams, but he looks like he could be a very good player in the future for Baltimore's defense. He is very athletic and has a great group to learn from both in players and coaches.

The other starter alongside Lewis, Suggs, and Scott was sixth-year player Jarret Johnson. On a Baltimore defense where there is hard to find a weak link, Johnson may be the closest thing to one. Not to say that he is not a good player. He is very solid (56 tackles and 4 sacks this season).

It's just that he makes big mistakes, both physical and mental (as exhibited by the first Steelers game where he had a crucial personal foul penalty) and his skills are limited to that of a pass-rusher and nothing more. The Ravens should work with some of their younger players to replace him in the future.

One of the younger players that could potentially be the new starting outside backer next season is undrafted rookie Jameel McClain. McClain showed flashes of what could be a very special player in the future. He had two safeties for the season (tied for NFL record), one which was off a blocked punt against the Eagles.

He had 15 tackles and 2.5 sacks and made plays everywhere whenever he was on the field. Like Johnson, the main skill he brings is a pass-rusher. But he has better field awareness and athleticism than Johnson, which could play a part in him being a starting linebacker in the future.

The Ravens sixth-round pick from 2007, Prescott Burgess, was on injured reserve all season with a wrist injury, but he is a capable special teams player and occasional outside pass rusher, so his return next season could provide some good depth.

Another second-year player is Antwan Barnes. A big-hitter (known to many as the guy who laid out the Eagles punter unnecessarily in preseason), Barnes had 14 tackles this season but was not used much on defense. The coaching staff feels that he is not refined as a linebacker enough yet, but his raw skills and athleticism could culminate in him being a rotation guy for the defense in the future rather than just a depth player.



Position Grade: B+ (note: the grade is for the positional situation, rather than simply how well the players played during the season.)



How to improve

Obviously, resigning Ray Lewis would be a great start. As I said, Baltimore has prepared for that by releasing McAlister and getting reading to franchise Suggs. Resigning Scott would be helpful, but it is not a definite priority if he asks for too much money or if it interferes with other goals for the team.

If Scott can't be retained, either shift Johnson over to inside backer until Gooden is ready, or work with Gooden or one of the other young players immediately to start next season.

An ideal situation (at least for me) would be to re-sign Lewis and Scott, and replace Johnson with McClain at the outside linebacker spot. If Scott can't be resigned, start Gooden at inside alongside Lewis and McClain outside.

I know it seems questionable to start two unexperienced players in this situation, but it could work out for the Ravens, especially with the defensive veterans and coaching staff who help ease the players into their roles.

As far as improving personell goes, the only moves the Ravens should make are those to improve depth for the inside linebackers. Whether it be drafting one in the middle-to-late rounds of the draft or signing a veteran such as Napoleon Harris or Antwan Peek.



Next edition: Secondary (...oh boy)

[url="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/125913-2009-baltimore-ravens-offseason-preview-linebackers"]http://bleacherreport.com/articles/125913-...iew-linebackers[/url]