The Art of Picking Late
Add Robert Klemko of SI’s MMQB blog to the list of writers who have praised Ozzie Newsome and company for their drafting ability this offseason. Klemko compares and contrasts the strategies of the Steelers and the Ravens to show two very effective ways of drafting. Both teams need special circumstances to trade up, but Ozzie and company historically have been a bit more willing to move for a higher pick. Klemko explains why that is. LINK
Polamalu left imprint on NFL, rivalry with Ravens
Clifton Brown of CSN Baltimore discusses the career of Steelers S Troy Polamalu. It’s an important day in the Ravens-Steelers rivalry. I hate the Steelers as much as anyone, but you almost have to have a begrudging respect for the future Hall-of-Famer. Although it’s painful to think of him back in his prime when he was making big plays to win games for the Steelers against the Ravens (I won’t mention particulars), he is one of the players that made the rivalry so much fun to watch. Good luck in retirement, Troy. LINK
Analyzing the Ravens 2015 Preseason Opponents
Because this period between free agency and the draft is longer than we’re used to, we need to do things like analyze preseason schedules. Phil Gentile of Purple Reign Show gives a good look at the schedule. I know these games are meaningless for a lot of players, but it’s interesting to get a first look at how teams have changed since last season. LINK
Cardinals TE Rob Housler agrees to 1-year deal with Cleveland Browns
The Ravens were also in the running for the tight end, but they lost to the Cleveland Browns. It’s okay, that will probably be the only time that anyone says that phrase this year. The signing takes another player at the Ravens’ biggest area of need off the market, though. Ian Rapoport reported the deal. LINK
When They Were Young: How 8 Draft Prospects Rated As Recruits
Matt Borcas of Grantland looks at how 8 of the biggest draft prospects ranked as recruits before they entered college. It looks at two players who have often been mocked to the Ravens, Dorial Green-Beckham and Todd Gurley. LINK
Ngata trade was on Twitter before Jim Caldwell knew
This story which broke on Thursday may have been lost in the shuffle with the news of Jah Reid re-signing and the preseason schedule release. This just shows how fast social media moves. Apparently, the news of the Haloti Ngata trade was on Twitter before Jim Caldwell had even been told about it. Clifton Brown of CSN Baltimore has the full story. LINK
