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Live from Owings Mills: Ravens making final preparations for Thursday's meeting with Redskins

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The most eventful moment of the afternoon occurred when a tremor from the earthquake felt up and down the coast struck the Ravens training facility less than an hour following Tuesday’s practice. And, no, it had nothing to do with defensive tackle Terrence Cody if that’s what you’re thinking. Prior to the earthquake, players completed a light shells-and-shorts practice in preparation for their meeting with the Washington Redskins on Thursday night. The practice was comparable to a typical Friday workout in the regular season, according to coach John Harbaugh. Most starters are scheduled to play well into the third quarter, if not the entire first three quarters while select veterans such as Ray Lewis and Ed Reed are not expected to see as much time. The third preseason game is widely viewed as the dress rehearsal for the start of the regular season. Harbaugh said the team watched film of Washington this week, but they have not installed a game plan for the Redskins, who the Ravens coach complimented as one of the most impressive teams of the preseason. “We want to win, we always want to win,” Harbaugh said. “The guys that are going to

Cameron, Pagano mum on Ravens' key position battles

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With the Ravens’ ever-important third preseason game coming up on Thursday, a number of key position battles still appear wide open, accompanied with varying degrees of concern as the regular season inches closer. No competition has garnered more attention during camp than the right tackle position with rookie Jah Reid clearly gaining the early advantage over fourth-year lineman Oniel Cousins before the Ravens shifted the latter to guard last week. Though Reid held up well against Kansas City on Friday night, the Ravens signed veteran tackle Mark LeVoir on Saturday to give the 6-foot-7 rookie some competition and to boost depth on the offensive line. Surprisingly, LeVoir took most of the reps with the first team on Monday while Reid worked with the second offense. LeVoir made two starts in 2008 and played in 32 games in his three seasons with the New England Patriots. Whether LeVoir supplants Reid as the leader for the starting position or Reid uses the veteran’s arrival as extra motivation, right tackle will undoubtedly remain an area of concern regardless of who’s lining up against Pittsburgh on Sept. 11. “I don’t know if it’s narrowed down to any point,” offensive coordinator

Live from Owings Mills: Monday Ravens practice update

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — As the Ravens continued to prepare for their third preseason game against the Washington Redskins, guard Marshal Yanda and cornerback Chris Carr were back on the field working out for the second straight day on Monday. Yanda (back spasms) was once again working in a helmet and shorts during the full-pad practice while Carr (hamstring) was dressed in full gear for the second straight day. Both were limited during Sunday afternoon’s practice. Linebacker Jarret Johnson was not practicing for the second straight day as he continues to deal with a back issue. Others not practicing included receivers James Hardy (hamstring), Terrell Zachery (undisclosed), and Justin Harper (undisclosed), defensive back Marcus Paschal (quadriceps), and center Matt Birk (knee surgery). Running back Matt Lawrence was practicing in a helmet and shorts on Monday after practicing fully on Sunday. He missed Friday’s game against the Chiefs. Cornerback Chykie Brown returned to practice after sitting out on Sunday as did veteran Ed Reed, who was given the day off in the first practice following Friday night’s game.

Foxworth still working way back into Ravens secondary

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — While most eyes were on the Ravens’ young tandem of rookie Jimmy Smith and third-year surprise Cary Williams making their first preseason starts on Friday night, another cornerback saw his first action as well. Veteran Domonique Foxworth, more than a year removed from the ACL injury that ended his 2010 season at the start of training camp — saw a limited number of snaps against the Kansas City Chiefs. He continues an uphill recovery that’s left him frustrated at different points during the offseason and training camp, forcing him to miss practice time and the preseason opener in Philadelphia. “I’m getting better,” Foxworth said. “Through the course of a day, I’ll have some plays where I feel great and some plays where I don’t feel so great. I’m trying to ease my way back in there.” Foxworth saw a limited number of plays with the second defense and has worked with the second unit in recent practices, designed to limit his action as well as build confidence in the surgically-repaired knee. The 28-year-old cornerback was determined to be ready by the start of training camp but soon learned the importance of pacing himself. “We talked about

Live from Owings Mills: Carr, Yanda return to practice

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Following a day off, the Ravens returned to work on Sunday with two key veterans rejoining them on the practice field. Chris Carr was suited up to practice after missing the Ravens’ second preseason game against Kansas City on Friday. The cornerback injured his hamstring last Monday and had missed two days of practice before sitting out against the Chiefs. Starting right guard Marshal Yanda was also present, working out in a helmet and shorts while the rest of the team practiced in full gear. Coach John Harbaugh is hopeful Yanda will play against the Washington Redskins on Thursday night. Yanda missed five straight practices last week before sitting out against Kansas City. Linebacker Ray Lewis was also back with the team after being excused due to a family illness. The 36-year-old did not play against the Chiefs on Friday as Dannell Ellerbe started in his place. Veterans Ed Reed and Jarret Johnson were not practicing on Sunday afternoon. Reed was presumably exercising his liberty to take a day off as he has at several points during training camp. Others not practicing included defensive back Marcus Paschal (quadriceps), cornerback Chykie Brown (undisclosed), center Matt Birk (knee

Ravens agree to deal with veteran tackle Mark LeVoir

Looking to boost their depth at offensive tackle, the Ravens agreed to terms with former New England Patriots lineman Mark LeVoir on Saturday, according to the AP. The 29-year-old lineman made two starts in 32 games over the last three seasons in New England. LeVoir was released by the Patriots earlier this week. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QviSo2F9jJQ[/youtube] Baltimore finds itself thin at the tackle position after they moved fourth-year lineman Oniel Cousins inside to guard after an ineffective performance against the Philadelphia Eagles last week. Rookie Jah Reid is currently the starting right tackle and played the entire game against Kansas City on Friday night. At 6-foot-7 and 310 pounds, LeVoir began his career with stints in Chicago and St. Louis before landing with the Patriots in 2008. The former Notre Dame product finds an ideal opportunity in Baltimore after playing in only six games with the Patriots last season.

With offense trying to find its way, Ravens may lean on defense again

BALTIMORE — The final output of 31 points would deceive anyone who didn’t watch the Ravens’ 31-13 preseason victory over the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday night. With 21 of those points being scored on the final three possessions with second- and third-team players in the game, the starting offense again struggled to find a rhythm behind a patchwork offensive line and a subpar performance by quarterback Joe Flacco. The starting unit finally broke through late in the first half when it strung together a six-play, 81-yard drive capped by a 26-yard touchdown run by Ray Rice. It was the first touchdown in six quarters of preseason football. With uncertainty at right tackle and injuries to Matt Birk and Marshal Yanda on the interior line — as well as a pair of second-year tight ends attempting to replace the production of Todd Heap — it’s easy to label the Baltimore offense as a group in transition. And with that transition will likely come early-season struggles as young players adjust to expanded roles in the offense. Accepting that fate, you had to be encouraged by the first-half performance turned in by the starting defense without Ray Lewis, who was away to

Leaky offensive line needs improvement or Flacco will scuffle

I’m not the kind to pass judgment on any team based on anything I see in the preseason. Schemes, game plans and “real” football are never really seen in August but my eyes see a few things that are disconcerting for any Ravens fan. First, the offensive line is suspect and that’s a foundation item that seems to get lost on most NFL fans until the quarterback is running for his life and imminently unproductive. There’s no way the Ravens will be effective on offense if Joe Flacco is constantly scrambling like we’ve seen for the better part of three quarters in the past eight days. What’s even worse is how dreadful the backups and “hope for the future” have been in protecting for Tyrod Taylor, who really isn’t being given a fair shot when he’s getting chased on every play as well. Against the Chiefs last night, Flacco was ineffective through most of the first half and was consistently overthrowing receivers who either didn’t have their timing down or just couldn’t get to the passes. Anquan Boldin looked frighteningly slow on a few of the passes but Lee Evans had some productivity in his reps vs. Kansas City. I

Live from M&T Bank Stadium: Purple Haze chat at 7:30 as Ravens host Chiefs

BALTIMORE — The Ravens welcome the Kansas City Chiefs to town in their second preseason game and first at M&T Bank Stadium tonight at 7:30. Baltimore will be looking for significant improvement after a lackluster 13-6 loss in Philadelphia last Thursday in which the Ravens struggled to block, tackle, and, well, pretty much everything else. The Chiefs also struggled mightily in their preseason opener, being shut out by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 25-0. Here our tonight’s unofficial inactives: Baltimore ILB Ray Lewis RG Marshal Yanda C Matt Birk CB Chris Carr S Marcus Paschal RB Matt Lawrence RB Damien Berry WR James Hardy ***Join us in the Purple Haze live chat beginning at 7:30 p.m. as WNST.net brings you live coverage from M&T Bank Stadium. For the quickest updates and analysis, follow WNST on Twitter and be sure to subscribe to the WNST Text Service.***

Ray Lewis out tonight as Ravens host Chiefs

The Ravens will be without Ray Lewis tonight as they welcome the Kansas City Chiefs to Baltimore for their second preseason game. Lewis is dealing with a family illness that caused him to miss Wednesday’s practice in Owings Mills and will not be present tonight, according to NFL Network’s Jason La Canfora. While his absence wouldn’t figure to have a great impact on the 16-year veteran’s preparation for the regular season, he will certainly be on the minds of teammates and coaches. Assuming Jameel McClain makes his second straight start at the other inside linebacker position, third-year player Dannell Ellerbe would be the logical choice to take Lewis’ place in the starting lineup. The two, along with veteran Brendon Ayanbadejo, have seen the most time at the inside linebacker spot next to Lewis in the Ravens’ 3-4 defense during training camp. Join WNST.net in the Purple Haze live chat at 7:30 as we bring live coverage from M&T Bank Stadium in the preseason home opener.

Ravens-Chiefs Preseason Primer: What to watch tonight

***Join us in the Purple Haze live chat beginning at 7:30 p.m. as WNST.net brings you live coverage from M&T Bank Stadium. For the quickest updates and analysis, follow WNST on Twitter and be sure to subscribe to the WNST Text Service.*** Playing their preseason home opener on Friday night, the Ravens envision a better showing against the Kansas City Chiefs after a lackluster effort in Philadelphia last week. Coach John Harbaugh said starters will play well into the second quarter, a higher workload than you’ll typically find in the second preseason game, in an effort to accelerate the development of a young offense with question marks along the offensive line. With starting lineman Matt Birk (knee surgery) and Marshal Yanda (back spams) current sidelined, the Ravens will use Bryan Mattison at center, Oniel Cousins at right guard, and rookie Jah Reid at tackle — an uncomfortable proposition for quarterback Joe Flacco. Friday will also mark the preseason debuts for newly-acquired veterans Ricky Williams and Lee Evans. Williams had only practiced once prior to the opener against the Eagles, and the Ravens traded a fourth-round pick to Buffalo to bring the veteran wideout Evans to Baltimore a day after the

Ch-ch-ch-changes at WNST for football season and Ravens coverage

It’s a momentous day here at WNST.net in many ways. Some great news will be divulged here today and other tidbits and updates will be best savored on another day. But make no mistake about it: today is a very proud day for me at WNST.net. We’ve quietly made some changes in our format and I’m really blessed to loudly and proudly announce the addition of Luke Jones to our WNSTeam as Drew Forrester’s new co-host, producer and whipping boy on The Morning Reaction and the promotion of Glenn Clark to afternoon drive show host from 2-to-6 on weekdays replacing Rex Snider, who submitted his resignation last week. I enjoyed Rex Snider’s passion and I really wish him well in the future. He was one of many folks who I was fortunate to meet and afford an opportunity to live the dream of doing a daily radio show at WNST and I hope this will launch him to greater things. He’s a man of integrity and I enjoyed watching his brand (and his hair) grow. On a personal note, I can’t appropriately express my bursting pride in Glenn Clark’s progress as a host, writer, journalist and learner of all things

Ravens' plan comes into focus for Chiefs on Friday

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With the Ravens wrapping their final practice of the week in preparation for their second preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs on Friday, coach John Harbaugh announced his team has essentially ended the training camp portion of the summer. Of course, it’s tough to see it that way given the unusual circumstance of training camp being held at the team’s facility in Owings Mills due to the 134-day lockout that cancelled practices at McDaniel College for the first time in the 16-year history of the franchise. Harbaugh said the Ravens will resume a practice schedule similar to the regular season beginning next week, though he wouldn’t rule out some extra work where needed. Without an offseason in which to work, the coach will play starters a bit more than they would normally go in the second preseason game. Harbaugh said most starters will play well into the second quarter against Kansas City at M&T Bank Stadium. “We have a shorter offseason this year; we didn’t have any OTAs,” Harbaugh said. “We need to get ready to play. We’re going to be playing a regular season game very soon. But there are certain guys that don’t

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens conduct last full practice before Friday

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Completing their last full practice before their second preseason game on Friday, the Ravens will likely be without their starting right guard Marshal Yanda, who missed his fifth straight practice on Wednesday. Yanda has been dealing with back spasms since playing in last Thursday’s preseason opener against Philadelphia. Despite offensive coordinator Cam Cameron expressing no concern over the fifth-year lineman’s absence earlier in the week, the Ravens will likely be forced to go with the newly-shifted Oniel Cousins at right guard, with rookie Jah Reid making his first start at right tackle. Cornerback Chris Carr (hamstring) is also sidelined for the second straight day as Cary Williams and Jimmy Smith continue to work as the cornerbacks in the starting defense. Lardarius Webb and Domonique Foxworth were running with the second team. Safety Bernard Pollard was also working with the first team next to Ed Reed, further suggesting he’s surpassed Tom Zbikowski on the depth chart. Linebacker Ray Lewis was also missing from the first hour of Wednesday afternoon’s practice. It is a bit peculiar considering Tuesday was a day off for Lewis and many of the team’s veterans, but Lewis plays by his own set of

Ravens offense working to boost long-ball potential

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — As a number of veterans rested during Tuesday afternoon’s practice, the Ravens continued working on their timing in the vertical passing game in hopes of stretching the field and creating the explosions that were lacking a season ago. Veteran receiver Anquan Boldin sat out his second straight practice — coach John Harbaugh said it was merely to rest the 30-year-old — as rookie Torrey Smith joined newly-acquired veteran Lee Evans as a starting receiver in the first offense. Quarterback Joe Flacco connected on a few deep balls to Smith and Evans — one a beautiful 43-yard touchdown strike to Smith with cornerback Cary Williams trailing behind. Evans has challenged a number of the Ravens’ top corners over his first four practices in Baltimore, even causing veteran Chris Carr to tweak his hamstring on a deep route Monday. Though the Ravens continue to preach their need to regain the power running game,  receivers gaining separation and taking the top off the defense will be a priority after the triumvirate of Boldin and departed veterans Derrick Mason and T.J. Houshmandzadeh created little diversity in the passing game a season ago. Of Ravens players making more than 10 receptions

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens give numerous veterans day off

(Updated 5:00 p.m.) OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With two full days of practice remaining until the Ravens welcome the Kansas City Chiefs to town on Friday night, coach John Harbaugh rested a number of veterans on Tuesday afternoon. Veterans not working out included Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, Haloti Ngata, Jarret Johnson, Brendon Ayanbadejo, and Cory Redding. Receiver Anquan Boldin was also sitting out for the second straight day, making it tough to decipher whether Monday was a day of rest or the veteran is dealing with some type of injury. Right guard Marshal Yanda was absent from the field and has not practice since the Ravens played their preseason opener in Philadelphia last Thursday. He has been dealing with back spams that are not considered serious, according to offensive coordinator Cam Cameron. Running back Ray Rice was on the field, but not suited up to practice as the Ravens are likely trying to ease his workload during training camp. The Ravens were also missing two prominent cornerbacks as Lardarius Webb and Chris Carr were not practicing with the rest of their unit. Carr appeared to have an ice pack on his left upper leg, not surprising after he pulled up

Coordinators expect young Ravens to grow up quickly

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — It was only hours after the 134-day lockout ended before we learned just how much the Ravens would lean on youth to continue their postseason success of the last three seasons. Projecting to be roughly $14 million over the new $120 million salary cap after an uncapped year, general manager Ozzie Newsome said goodbye to four key veterans and watched a number of others depart via free agency. In a matter of days, the Ravens were young — and cheaper. The loss of offseason training and organized team activities (OTAs) further complicated that realization, but after nearly three weeks of training camp and one preseason game under their belts, offensive coordinator Cam Cameron sees no reasons why the bar shouldn’t be high for rookies such as right tackle Jah Reid and receivers Torrey Smith and Tandon Doss (even with the veteran acquisition of Lee Evans to boost the receiver position). After all, there are no redshirts in the National Football League, where players are expected to contribute at a high level from day one. “There are no four-year scholarships,” Camerson said. “There are a lot of different things that go through these guys’ minds. We’re trying

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens missing four offensive starters from practice

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Rain storms throughout the area forced the Ravens to move their Monday afternoon practice indoors, but the current state of the interior offensive line appears even more threatening. With center Matt Birk sidelined after undergoing knee surgery two weeks ago and right guard Marshal Yanda missing his third straight practice with back spasms, left guard Ben Grubbs and receiver Anquan Boldin were not participating on Monday. It’s unclear whether it’s merely a day off for Grubbs — who had offseason ankle surgery — and Boldin, but both made it through Sunday evening’s practice without incident. With Grubbs, Birk, and Yanda not practicing, rookie Justin Boren was working at left guard while Bryan Mattison and Oniel Cousins filled in at center and right guard respectively. Others missing from Monday’s workout included receiver James Hardy (hamstring) and rookie running back Damien Berry. The Ravens received good news earlier in the day when second-year receiver David Reed passed his physical and came off the active physically-unable-to-perform list. The 6-foot return specialist was practicing Monday after missing the first three weeks of camp after undergoing offseason wrist surgery. Earlier on Monday, the Ravens released rookie defensive tackle Terron Sanders and

Ravens defense squawks, gets upper hand in Sunday's practice

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Ravens practice began later than usual, but there was no sign of it hurting the defense on Sunday evening. Starting practice at 4:45 p.m. instead of the usual 1:30 p.m. start to give players some extra rest, the starting defense was flying around throughout the session and clearly got the best of the offense. Linebacker Terrell Suggs was chirping the loudest, several times questioning the calls of Cam Cameron during 11-on-11 team periods. Of course, it’s important to remember it was practice and not an actual game before anyone makes too much of Suggs’ playful jabbing. On one third-and-long situation inside the red zone, Cameron called for a run play, and the defense sniffed it out well short of the first-down marker. Suggs quipped that the Ravens better have a 13-point lead in the fourth quarter if they’re going to call that play. It’s hard to disagree with him, either. “I think it was positive, it was competitive, and challenging one another,” Harbaugh said. “We’re a team, but kind of in practice, we’re kind of not. We kind of get after each other a little bit. I thought the defense, at times, had the better

Live from Owings Mills: C. Williams, J. Smith work with starting defense

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Ravens had their full allotment of cornerbacks on the practice field Sunday, making the two players working with the first defense all the more surprising. Rookie Jimmy Smith and third-year defensive back Cary Williams played extensively with the starting defense as Chris Carr and Lardarius Webb — the starters in the preseason opener — rotated inside in nickel and dime packages. Veteran Domonique Foxworth practiced on a limited basis but did not take reps in 11-on-11 team sessions as he continues to work his way back to full strength from ACL surgery a year ago. Smith’s involvement with the starting defense should not surprise too many people, given the fact that the Ravens viewed him as a top-10 talent when they selected him with the 27th overall pick in April. However, seeing the 6-foot-1 Williams work with the first unit was a product of his strong play in camp and performance against the Eagles last Thursday. “A guy deserves an opportunity,” coach John Harbaugh, who wanted to get a look at how Williams and Smith fit with the rest of the starting defense. “He’s played really well, and we try to do that. We always

Live from Owings Mills: Cody returns to practice, Yanda still sidelined

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — As the Ravens hit the practice field late Sunday afternoon, defensive tackle Terrence Cody returned after being sidelined Saturday with a minor ankle injury. However, starting right guard Marshal Yanda was again missing as he continues to deal with back spasms. Maligned offensive lineman Oniel Cousins is once again working at right guard with rookie Jah Reid assuming duties at right tackle with the first offense. A day after returning to the practice field after dealing with a hamstring injury throughout training camp, receiver James Hardy was not practicing. At 6-foot-5, the 25-year-old Hardy appeared to have a good chance to crack the 53-man roster — especially after the Ravens failed in their effort to sign San Diego wideout Malcom Floyd — but his chances continue to fade as he can’t stay on the field. Safety Ed Reed was present on the field but not dressed to practice, indicating the 32-year-old was taking the day off as he has on a few occasions this summer. He was doing some individual work with the other defensive backs while wearing his jersey, shorts, and a ball cap. Others not practicing included receiver David Reed (physically-unable-to-perform list – wrist),

Ravens acquire veteran receiver Lee Evans for 4th round draft pick

On the heels of a lackluster 13-6 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the Ravens’ preseason opener on Thursday night, general manager Ozzie Newsome apparently saw the same pressing need at wide receiver that everyone else did. The Ravens have traded for Buffalo receiver Lee Evans, as first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The Bills had reportedly been shopping the 30-year-old receiver for a third-round pick, but Baltimore instead sent a 2012 fourth-round selection to acquire the 5-foot-10 receiver. “He’s a quality veteran receiver who stretches the field and gives us a significant downfield presence,” said Newsome to the team’s official website. “He’s the type of person you want on your team. He brings leadership and maturity to the locker room.” Evans spent seven seasons in Buffalo and has caught 43 touchdowns and accumulated 5,934 receiving yards in his NFL career. With draft picks Torrey Smith and Tandon Doss projected as the No. 2 and No. 3 receivers entering the preseason opener, the rookies struggled to gain separation in the first half against Philadelphia. Ravens wide receivers failed to record a catch until the 6:15 mark of the second quarter when Doss caught a 6-yard pass from Tyrod Taylor. Though

Ravens falter on third down, nearly everywhere else in preseason opener

PHILADELPHIA — While most concern lies with the changes to the Ravens’ offensive personnel through the first two weeks of training camp, the starting defense — or second and third units, for that matter — raised plenty of concerns on their own Thursday night. In the Eagles’ 13-6 win over the Ravens, the Baltimore defense struggled to get off the field on third down, continually missing tackles and failing to force incompletions. The numbers were particularly troubling in the first half with key personnel on the field through the first 30 minutes. Philadelphia was 4-for-4 on third-down conversions in the first quarter and 5-for-7 by halftime. “We were in position to make the tackle in the backfield, including two sacks, and we didn’t make the plays,” coach John Harbaugh said. “We have to get off the field in those third-down situations, and we didn’t in the first half.” The only touchdown of the game came on the Eagles’ opening drive when Michael Vick threw a 3-yard touchdown pass to Brent Celek with starting inside linebacker Jameel McClain covering. McClain struggled in the first quarter, allowing two completions and missing a tackle on Ronnie Brown on a beautifully-designed run blitz. That

Don’t go jumping off the Key Bridge just yet fellow purple bird watchers

PHILADELPHIA — As I sit here wrapping up a futile evening of unusually awful preseason football — and the bar was set pretty low to begin with — I’m just going to throw out a few random observations from tonight’s Ravens’ 13-6 loss to the Eagles here at The Linc: The Ravens need to get on the phone and find a backup quarterback and probably sooner than later. Not unexpectedly, Tyrod Taylor stank in his NFL debut last night playing primarily with and against the usual second-teamers. Harbaugh, who always seems to provide us with some quotes that are outlandish, had nothing but praise for Taylor. Check it out here. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MTJdWh1TBl0[/youtube] Taylor is going to be mighty sore all weekend but the three interceptions were ill-timed even by preseason standards and certainly avoidable. Pray for the health of Joe Flacco, Baltimore! Or pray for someone legitimate to fall out of a tree. Call Marc Bulger. Call Brett Favre. Call someone, Ozzie! It’s impossible to gauge how good the team is as a whole when the starters were out of the game before we blinked but it was pretty easy to see that Michael Vick and the Eagles offense were far

Live from Lincoln Financial Field: Purple Haze chat at 7:30 as Ravens begin preseason

***Join us in the Purple Haze live chat beginning at 7:30 p.m. as WNST.net brings you live coverage from the preseason opener in Philadelphia. For the quickest updates and analysis, follow WNST on Twitter and be sure to subscribe to the WNST Text Service.*** PHILADELPHIA — With two weeks of training camp under their belt, the Ravens travel to Philadelphia to open the preseason against the restocked Eagles on Thursday night. With key veterans figuring to play little more than a series and other starters only going for a quarter, tonight will bring plenty of opportunity for young players to leave an impression on Ozzie Newsome, John Harbaugh, and the Baltimore coaching staff. Here are the Ravens’ inactives for tonight: RB Ricky Williams (coach’s decision) CB Domonique Foxworth (knee) TE Ed Dickson (hamstring) WR Rodney Bradley (undisclosed) WR David Reed (PUP list – wrist) WR James Hardy (hamstring) RB Matt Lawrence (undisclosed) C Matt Birk (knee surgery) OT Ramon Harewood (PUP list – knees) DT Brandon McKinney (knee) Eagles inactives: WR DeSean Jackson WR Jeremy Maclin S Marlin Jackson DT Brandon Collier DT Trevor Laws DT Mike Patterson Surprisingly, rookie cornerback Jimmy Smith has not been deactivated despite Harbaugh saying

Ravens-Eagles Preseason Primer: What to watch in tonight's opener

***Join us in the Purple Haze live chat beginning at 7:30 p.m. as WNST.net brings you live coverage from the preseason opener in Philadelphia. For the quickest updates and analysis, follow WNST on Twitter and be sure to subscribe to the WNST Text Service.*** Nearly seven months after the Ravens walked off the field after suffering a gut-wrenching loss to Pittsburgh in the AFC divisional playoffs, Baltimore begins preseason action on Thursday night looking noticeably different. And younger. After waving goodbye to veterans Derrick Mason, Todd Heap, Willis McGahee, and Kelly Gregg and watching a number of others depart via free agency, the Ravens find themselves in transition, getting younger while still hoping to maintain their Super Bowl aspirations. However, questions at several positions including wide receiver, tight end, right tackle, and backup quarterback as well as the pass rush remain unanswered. Couple those uncertainties with a 134-day lockout that eliminated off-season workouts and the typically mundane preseason opener appears to carry extra significance — depending on who you talk to, at least. With a young offense trying to find a new identity in the passing game, offensive coordinator Cam Cameron labeled this first preseason game as more important than

Live from Owings Mills: Ricky Williams thinks he'll "fit in well" with Ravens

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Though the dread locks and thick beard were trademark looks of his past, a mature, clean-shaven Ricky Williams passed his physical and took the practice field for the first time with the Baltimore Ravens on Tuesday afternoon. After signing a two-year contract worth $2.5 million — with escalators that could reach $4 million total — the 34-year-old met with the Baltimore media explaining why he chose the Ravens over a possible opportunity to receive more carries with the Detroit Lions. “It’s an established organization with a lot of [veterans],” Williams said. “Playing against them almost every year for the past six or seven years, you don’t like playing against them because of the way they play. I thought I would fit in well in this situation and be able to enjoy myself and possibly win a Super Bowl.” Williams only ran a handful of plays as he spent much of the afternoon conferring with coaches and players in order to get up to speed with the offense. Having the advantage of playing in Cam Cameron’s system for their one year together in Miami, Williams admires the Ravens offensive coordinator — a contributing factor for his decision

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens boost running back depth with "proven playmaker" in Ricky Williams

(Updated: 8:55 p.m.) OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Returning to the practice field with their first preseason game only three days away, the Ravens received a rare piece of good news in free agency after coming to an agreement with veteran running back Ricky Williams shortly before Monday afternoon’s practice. The two-year deal is pending a physical, so the Ravens are cautiously awaiting the results after veteran center Casey Rabach failed his last week to void a two-year contract. However, offensive coordinator Cam Cameron is excited with the experience and production Williams can bring in support of starter Ray Rice. “I think he’ll be a great addition, a guy who will be a great complement to Ray Rice and the other guys in our backfield,” said Cameron, who coached Williams in 2007 with the Miami Dolphins. “Outstanding player and an outstanding person. I’m really excited.” With the release of Willis McGahee and fullback Le’Ron McClain signing a one-year contract with the Kansas City Chiefs last week, the Ravens were previously counting on fourth-year back Jalen Parmele and seventh-round rookie Anthony Allen to back up Rice. Cameron maintained that Rice would be a major contributor in short-yardage and goal-line packages — a

Ravens agree to terms with veteran running back Ricky Williams

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — The Ravens have agreed to terms with veteran running back Ricky Williams, according to Pro Football Talk. Needing to boost depth behind starter Ray Rice after Willis McGahee’s and fullback Le’Ron McClain signing a one-year deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, the Ravens will likely look to the 34-year-old power back to fill McGahee’s role in short-yardage situations. Williams rushed for 673 yards on 159 carries while sharing time with Ronnie Brown in Miami last season. Williams will reportedly sign a two-year deal worth up to $4 million. Veteran Jalen Parmele and seventh-round pick Anthony Allen had been the strongest candidates for the No. 2 job on the depth chart, raising concerns with the Ravens’ apparent commitment to the running game in 2011. At 5-foot-10 and 230 pounds, Williams gives the Ravens a big back to complement the shiftier Rice in the offensive backfield. Williams is famously known as the 1998 Heisman Trophy winner who the New Orleans Saints — and then-coach Mike Ditka — famously gave up their entire draft to trade up to take him. The free-spirit running back retired in 2004 after two seasons with the Dolphins, only to return to Miami to

It needs to be said: Good riddance, Derrick Mason!

Over the past two weeks I’ve read and heard and watched a myriad of different reactions to the swath of cuts the Baltimore Ravens have made to veteran players and unlike the overwhelming majority of the fan base here, I understand the salary cap and how it works. (If you have any questions, feel free to forward them along: nasty@wnst.net. That’s why WNST.net exists – to educate you and answer your questions about Baltimore sports.) Bottom line: the Ravens played about $14 million over the cap last year in a “wild, wild west” uncapped NFL season. In the new post-lockout 2011 season, everyone will need to align franchise expenditures with the reality of the league. For the Ravens, that means playing with less veteran (re: well-paid) talent. This brings us to wide receiver Derrick Mason, who has somehow at 37 years of age  managed to stir up the fans of Baltimore using his Twitter account and his ever-present voice to make a case for himself as a returning veteran to the Ravens. He was texting with John Harbaugh. He was talking about other opportunities and greener pastures. He was “shocked” by the Ravens’ cut, which had almost happened two other

Live from M&T Bank Stadium: Deprived of training camp, fans flock to see Ravens practice

(Updated: 4:45 p.m.) BALTIMORE — With their only chance to watch the Ravens work out this summer after the lockout forced the cancellation of training camp in Westminster, 24,078 fans flocked to M&T Bank Stadium to watch a three-hour practice on Saturday morning. Though fans surely missed notable veterans such as Todd Heap — now with the Arizona Cardinals — and free agent Derrick Mason, the enthusiasm was palpable and brought a different feel to practice that players have not experienced in the quiet confines of their training facility in Owings Mills. “It’s different,” said coach John Harbaugh, who gave a mixed review on how his players handled the crowd. “I talked to the team afterwards about communicating. You get in an environment like this and you realize it’s tough. We had a lot of distractions by design. It wasn’t just for the fans to have the interviews and the music and all that. It was also a great distraction for our players to overcome the noise and all that.” Given Friday’s news of free-agent target Malcom Floyd signing a two-year contract to remain in San Diego, a hot topic of discussion after practice was the speculated return of Mason,

Former Ravens receiver Mason close to joining Jets

(Updated: 8:40 p.m.) OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Ten days after his abrupt release from the Baltimore Ravens, Derrick Mason appears close to finding a new home in the Big Apple. The New York Jets have released veteran Jerricho Cotchery and are moving toward signing the former Ravens receiver. Mason leaves behind six productive seasons in Baltimore in which he became the franchise’s all-time leader in both receptions (471) and receiving yards (5,777) after joining the Ravens in 2005. Rumors began linking the 37-year-old receiver to Rex Ryan’s squad Wednesday night before Mason visited the Jets and took a physical on Thursday. He would join a talented group of receivers in New York that includes Santonio Holmes and Plaxico Burress. While the Ravens continue to pursue the services of 6-foot-5 receiver Malcom Floyd to add more size and diversity in the passing game, quarterback Joe Flacco will adjust to life without his favorite target as Mason acted as the young quarterback’s security blanket over the last three seasons. Mason is the only receiver in franchise history to have a 100-catch season, grabbing 103 passes in 2007. With former tight end Todd Heap having already signed with the Arizona Cardinals last weekend,

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens offense continues hurting over first week of camp

(Updated: 6:35 p.m.) OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With a lack of depth at several key offensive positions, the Ravens thought they had solved one problem with the return of veteran Casey Rabach on Tuesday. But just like sidelined starting center Matt Birk, Rabach wasn’t healthy himself, failing his physical on Wednesday and wiping out what would have been a two-year contract to return to Baltimore and bring a veteran presence to the Ravens’ center and guard positions. The news now leaves the Ravens with rookie free agents Tim Barnes and Ryan Bartholomew as their only options at the center position. Coach John Harbaugh confirmed Birk underwent arthroscopic knee surgery to “clean out” the bursa sac in his left knee and is expected to miss three to four weeks after the minor procedure on Tuesday. Birk has dealt with knee issues in the past, including last season when he had his knee drained several different times despite not missing a game. With Rabach failing his physical after undergoing shoulder surgery earlier this offseason, general manager Ozzie Newsome will continue looking for a veteran interior lineman, but Harbaugh reiterated the Ravens’ confidence in Birk being ready for the season opener against Pittsburgh

Former Ravens quarterback Marc Bulger retires

Still without a veteran to back up starting quarterback Joe Flacco, the Ravens will be unable to call upon Marc Bulger, who intends to retire after 11 seasons in the NFL. The 34-year-old signal caller was the Ravens’ backup quarterback in 2010 after signing a one-year, $3.8 million contract, which paid him a higher base salary than Flacco. However, Bulger did not take a snap all season as Flacco started all 16 games. The Ravens currently have sixth-round pick Tyrod Taylor and practice squad member Hunter Cantwell as the only quarterbacks on the roster behind Flacco. Despite a strong endorsement from offensive coordinator Cam Cameron on Tuesday and the fact that Flacco has never missed a game in his three-year career, it’s unlikely the Ravens would feel comfortable with the listed 6-foot-1 Taylor as the backup quarterback. Bulger’s best years came with the St. Louis Rams, where he began as the No. 2 quarterback behind Kurt Warner and eventually became a two-time Pro Bowler. He finishes his career with 122 touchdown passes, 93 interceptions, and an 84.4 quarterback rating. With Bulger no longer an option as the backup quarterback, general manager Ozzie Newsome must now deal with an underwhelming quarterback

Ravens sign offensive lineman Casey Rabach to two-year deal

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With concerns over 35-year-old center Matt Birk’s health and a lack of depth on the interior offensive line, the Ravens have agreed to terms on a two-year contract with offensive lineman Casey Rabach. Drafted by the Ravens in the third round of the 2001 NFL draft, Rabach spent four seasons in Baltimore before being signed by the Washington Redskins in 2005. Rabach served his first three seasons with the Ravens as a reserve guard and center before starting all 16 games in 2004 as starting center Mike Flynn dealt with injuries. With the departure of reserve Chris Chester via free agency and Birk entering his 14th season in the league, the 33-year-old Rabach provides a nice insurance policy for the interior line. The veteran center has missed only one game over his last seven seasons in Washington and Baltimore.

Morning Reaction Tuesday Top 7: Most Entertaining Sports Figures I've Ever Watched

In honor of the great Deion Sanders being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton this weekend, today’s Morning Reaction Tuesday Top 7 was “The 7 Most Entertaining Sports Figures I’ve Ever Seen.” With Glenn Clark filling in on The Afternoon Drive this week, Drew Forrester kindly included me in the weekly spot. Remember you can hear our explanations for our Top 7 lists in the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault right here. Luke Jones’ list… 7. Bo Jackson 6. Ray Lewis [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d60hKgNPlVE[/youtube] 5. Randy Moss [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmJcUlrkMNg[/youtube] 4. Tiger Woods

WNST Purple Football Roadtrips now on sale to San Diego, Jacksonville, more…

With all of the frenzy of the lockout and the ensuing fallout of free agency and mayhem, I’m getting tons of requests for the WNST Purple Football Roadtrip information. It took a week to put it all together but we proudly announce four total roadtrips for your selection and we’ll also be throwing our traditional Purple Pep Rallies and Parties in virtually every city on the road in 2011. Our first trip is next Thursday to Philadelphia to see the Ravens first game of the preseason. It’s just $89 for the entire evening of fun in the City of Brotherly Love. If you are interested in a specific party on the road and you’ve already made your travel plans, simply drop me an email: nasty@wnst.net and I’ll get you on the “first information” list once the parties go on sale next week. To purchase seats for all of our roadtrips, simply click on the TRIPS tab at www.wnst.net or here. If you want to see what our Purple Parties look like, just click here to see the evidence from Charlotte last fall: [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RA0xYf3IeQk[/youtube] Here’s a full lineup of all of our trips for 2011: 2011 Purple Roadtrip to Jacksonville (Oct.

Live from Owings Mills: Rice labels new fullback Leach "all about business"

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Asked about the signing of All-Pro fullback Vonta Leach, running back Ray Rice broke into his rendition of “I’m So Excited” by the Pointer Sisters after practice on Monday. And why wouldn’t he be after Leach was responsible for paving the way — or blowing it up — for the rushing champion as a member of the Houston Texans a season ago? “I watched what he did for Arian Foster,” said Rice, referring to Foster’s league-best 1,616 rushing yards. “He’s an amazing fullback. He lays the wood on people. Everybody knows what his reputation is. I just can’t wait to follow him. I could probably trip and get five yards running behind him. “I’m just excited to have a guy like that in front of me, because he’s all about business and all about hard work.” Unlike free-agent fullback Le’Ron McClain, who seemed more interested in carrying the ball himself than opening holes for Rice, the Ravens know what they’re getting in Leach. After Leach received only three carries in his first seven seasons combined, it’s doubtful we’ll see any “Leach for Running Back” t-shirts popping up for sale. With improving the running game deemed a

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens top pick Jimmy Smith practices for first time

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Upon finishing his first practice after signing a four-year contract Friday morning, first-round cornerback Jimmy Smith was asked how his first NFL workout went. “It was hot,” the 27th overall pick said after a steamy three-hour practice. “It’s really hot.” At least, Smith is honest. Seeing comparisons between the defenses the Ravens run and the defensive playbook he had at Colorado, Smith feel pretty comfortable despite having only completed his first practice as a professional. Smith ran with the second defense — as Domonique Foxworth and Lardarius Webb took first-team reps — but moved to cornerback in the starting defense’s nickel package, with Webb sliding to the inside. “I think he’s got a ways to go in a lot of ways, but we have a lot of work in front of us over camp,” coach John Harbaugh said. “Obviously, he’s got all the tools. He’s got a really good attitude. He’s a hard worker. I think he’s got to learn how to be a pro, and I’m very certain he can do that.” At 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, many have seen similarities between Smith and a young Chris McAlister due to the former’s physical style of

Ravens place Suggs on non-football injury list, 4 others on active PUP list

Word began trickling out overnight that the Ravens have placed Terrell Suggs on the non-football injury list. The Pro Bowl linebacker had his upper leg wrapped during Thursday’s practice and did not participate in the workout. Suggs is eligible to return to practice at any time and still counts against the 90-man roster. Before panicking, defensive tackle Terrence Cody was placed on the same list at the beginning of last year’s camp after not passing his conditioning test. If Suggs has a tweaked hamstring, it’s possible he is simply waiting a day or two to take the test. Every player on the training camp roster must pass the conditioning test before taking part in practice. The Ravens have also placed starting left guard Ben Grubbs (ankle), receiver David Reed, defensive tackle Brandon McKinney (unknown), and offensive tackle Ramon Harewood (knee) on the active physically unable to perform list. Each player still counts against the 90-man roster and is eligible to return to practice at any point during training camp. In 2010, ten Baltimore players began training camp on the active PUP list, including safety Ed Reed. Reed, however, was transferred to the reserve PUP list before the start of the

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