The Ravens were able to open training camp a week early because they are playing the Chicago Bears in the Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 2. While the opening days were mostly light workouts, several storylines are taking shape.
Here are the Top 5:
Quarterback Joe Flacco understands the sense of urgency for this upcoming season. The team is trying to end a three-year playoff drought and he could be playing in his final season in Baltimore. As a result, Flacco has been focused and sharp. The players have noticed the difference in him. Flacco is determined to have a big year, which would force the Ravens to make a tough decision about retaining him and his hefty salary in 2019.
In addition, Robert Griffin III has also been solid, but I still don’t think he makes the final roster. The Ravens need that spot for an extra cornerback or receiver that could also contribute to special teams. However, I don’t see much outside interest in him on the open market unless another team suffers a serious injury. As a result, I think he stays around Baltimore waiting for a potential opportunity. He could be added to the roster if Flacco or Jackson get banged up.
Expectations were high for rookie tight end Hayden Hurst, but he has struggled to stay on the field. Hurst has been hampered by a soft-tissue injury and missed three consecutive practices. He was on the field Tuesday before having to leave early again. Fellow rookie Mark Andrews has also missed time with a soft-tissue injury.
While it’s still early, Hurst and Andrews are missing valuable time working with the quarterbacks. Their absence has been frustrating. “You have to be out here practicing. You can’t be in the training room and expect to be your best,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. The other tight ends, most notably Nick Boyle and Maxx Williams, have taken the majority of reps.
The secondary has the potential to be the best in the NFL. The Ravens received a pleasant surprise when cornerback Jimmy Smith arrived to training camp ahead of schedule from an Achilles injury. He should be ready for the regular-season opener. Tavon Young also looks solid after missing last year with a knee injury. Marlon Humphrey is primed to make to take the next step in development and should overtake Brandon Carr as a starter. Safeties Eric Weddle and Tony Jefferson provide veteran leadership that should keep the back end of the defense organized. The Ravens led the NFL with 22 interceptions in 2017 and could have even more takeaways this season.
The offensive line is still a work in progress. The Ravens have shuffled around players to find the best mix. Marshal Yanda has still not taken the field after undergoing offseason shoulder surgery. His eventual return will change the dynamic of the entire unit. I predict the offensive line shapes up this way: Yanda at right guard, Orlando Brown Jr. at right tackle, Matt Skura at center, Ronnie Stanley at left tackle and Alex Lewis at left guard. This would allow James Hurst to be a valuable backup because he can play multiple positions.
