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

Luke Jones

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

Luke Jones

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

Luke Jones

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

Luke Jones

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

Nestor Aparicio

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

Luke Jones

***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

Luke Jones

***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

Luke Jones

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

Luke Jones

(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

Luke Jones

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!

Nestor Aparicio

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

Luke Jones

(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

Luke Jones

(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

Luke Jones

(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

Luke Jones

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

Luke Jones

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

Luke Jones

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…

Nestor Aparicio

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"

Luke Jones

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

Luke Jones

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

Luke Jones

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

Ravens cornerback Jimmy Smith breaks the news about himself?

Luke Jones

Multiple reports have speculated about the imminent signing of first-round pick Jimmy Smith, but it appears the cornerback decided to break the news himself. The 27th overall pick announced on his verified Twitter account late Thursday night that he will officially sign his contract on Friday. “Ok.. its official I sign tomoro..” [sic], Smith wrote on his Twitter page. Of course, there’s always the slim chance of his account being “hacked” like many athletes have claimed after foolishly spouting off on Twitter, but it appears the Ravens will have all eight draft picks under contract in time for the second day of practice. If Smith proves correct, he wouldn’t be the first athlete to break his own news in an era when social media rules over all. And he certainly won’t be the last.

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens thrilled with Kindle's return to field

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — A year ago at this time, Ravens linebacker Sergio Kindle was in a hospital bed, uncertain of his future quality of life, let alone whether he would ever be able to play football again. But as the Ravens returned to the practice field for the first time since the end of the 134-day lockout, coaches and players alike couldn’t help but take satisfaction in seeing Kindle’s smiling face as he stepped on the practice field for the first time in over a year. Coach John Harbaugh even noted that Kindle smiled as he took — and passed — the dread conditioning test to which every player is subjected. None of it means Kindle will approach the potential he once had when the Ravens selected him with the 43rd overall pick of the 2010 NFL draft, but it’s a large step forward from where the 23-year-old was 12 months ago. Another test will take place over the weekend when the Ravens can go live in practice for the first time. “It’s great for him as a person,” Harbaugh said. “That’s the No. 1 thing — what he’s overcome and to be out there. He looked good. Obviously,

What the hell do these people want from Joe Flacco?

Nestor Aparicio

I love it when Joe Flacco talks dirty. Somehow it hasn’t raised a lot of eyebrows or created a ton of conversation just yet but Joe Flacco’s “Welcome Home” meet up with the media on Wednesday afternoon sure created some stir in my mind. Perhaps a lot of folks haven’t heard it yet or really processed it the way I did but you can listen here. About his skills, Joe Flacco said: “I’m pretty damned good.” And you know what? I agree with him. And his perspective on the whole situation – “there’s only one good quarterback and 31 others who aren’t” – is dead on. Joe Flacco “gets it.” Look, I was as dumbfounded as the rest of you when the Ravens picked him three years ago, especially when on draft day the organization managed to keep it a state secret about their affection for the pride of Newark and all of Blue Hendom. Small school kid, almost geekish in his passion for football, sports and very little else, but he’s made everyone in the scouting department look like a genius with three consecutive January road playoff runs and wins every year. He’s done everything that Kyle Boller —

With veteran targets gone, Flacco wants ball in his hands

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Even putting aside the 134-day lockout that ended earlier this week, it was anything but a typical offseason for Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco. There was the firing of quarterback coach Jim Zorn and rumblings that offensive coordinator Cam Cameron and Flacco weren’t on the same page. With two years remaining on his current contract, Flacco expressed a desire for a new long-term contract in the midst of labor unrest. Amid criticism from national media and peers such as Steelers linebacker LaMarr Woodley about his ability to win earlier this summer, Flacco married his high school sweetheart and saw his wedding photos become a viral sensation. But none of that topped Monday’s news of the Ravens’ intentions to release his two longtime targets, Derrick Mason and Todd Heap, who were responsible for securing 33 of Flacco’s 60 touchdown passes over his first three seasons. Suddenly, Flacco finds his safety net torn away, with only Anquan Boldin and a number of young question marks remaining. “I had no idea anything like that was going to happen, I really didn’t,” said Flacco, who expressed strong hope that both can be brought back. “You expect to come back and see

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens tight end Dickson replacing "Superman" with Heap's exit

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Second-year tight end Ed Dickson filled in for an injured Todd Heap over the final month of the 2010 season, but in the back of his mind, he knew the veteran was on his way back. It looks like he’ll have no such safety net this year as the Ravens intend to officially release Heap on Thursday to save salary cap room. While some hope remains for Heap’s return at a reduced cost, Dickson finds himself as the projected starter entering training camp. “It means a lot to me that they have that much faith in me,” said Dickson, who weighed in a few pounds heavier than last season. “I’ve been here one year. Like I said, all I can do is improve my game. I can come out in training camp and play my game and just try to get better everyday in camp and work to getting that starting position. They didn’t sign anything over to me right now. I still have competition, and I love competition.” His biggest competition is fellow 2010 draftee Dennis Pitta, selected in the fourth round, and third-year player Davon Drew. Dickson played in 15 games last season, catching

Mason says it's up to Ravens to decide if he returns

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — On a day when players were thrilled to return to the Ravens training facility, receiver Derrick Mason faced the sobering possibility of leaving a place he’s called home for the final time. Though it doesn’t become official until Thursday, the 37-year-old wideout will be released in a cap-saving move, along with veterans Todd Heap, Kelly Gregg, and Willis McGahee. Mason was at the facility for his exit physical and met with general manager Ozzie Newsome. After spending the last six seasons in Baltimore, becoming the Ravens’ all-time leading receiver, Mason remains upbeat and willing to return — if the Ravens want him. “If they want me back, I’m back,” Mason said. “That’s all I can say. Now, if some other team wants me, then I think that’s one of those things you have to look at. My first thought would be to come back here. This has been my football home for the last six years, so why leave it so abruptly? I’m going to do what I can, and hopefully they’ll do what they need to do in order to try to bring me back. If not, hey, I can play football.” Mason caught 471

Live from Owings Mills: Ravens back to work, react to key veteran cuts

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With the training complex alive with players and media alike for the first time since draft weekend, the Ravens leave a long labor war behind them and thankfully turn their full attention to preparations for the 2011 season. Tuesday’s voluntary report day included the likes of Ray Rice, Domonique Foxworth, Lardarius Webb, and Terrence Cody while rookies took the opportunity to gain their bearings in a facility in which some of them haven’t been able to set foot. Players had the option to take their physicals and conditioning test a day ahead of Wednesday’s report date for those under contract. The entire team will meet for the first time at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, according to coach John Harbaugh. “The heat broke, the players will be happy, it cooled down a little bit, they’re just in time!” Harbaugh said. “We have labor peace and we have a break in the heat wave.” While players expressed their enthusiasm for returning to work, Monday’s news of the impending cuts of veterans Derrick Mason, Todd Heap, Kelly Gregg, and Willis McGahee put a damper on an otherwise exciting day in Owings Mills. Some players such the third-year cornerback Webb

With 2011 Ravens training camp in Westminster history, community finally feels cruel reality of lockout

Luke Jones

On a night in which Baltimore was abuzz with the legendary rock band U2 playing a monumental show at M&T Bank Stadium, Ravens fans took a hit unlike any they’ve felt in the 16-year history of the franchise. With Wednesday’s announcement of the Ravens moving their 2011 training camp from McDaniel College in inviting Westminster to the inaccessible confines of their training facility in Owings Mills, the NFL lockout just became very real for fans and a local community itching for the annual return of football in late July. The annual day trips to a Wednesday morning practice — accompanied with a stop at Baugher’s for breakfast or dessert or Harry’s Main Street Grille for lunch — will be wiped out, even as the owners and players appear to be moving closer to an agreement to end the more than three-month-long work stoppage. The economic impact on the Westminster community will be substantial as an estimated 112,000 fans flocked to the Carroll County town in late summer of 2010. “We’re disappointed we won’t be back at McDaniel and in Westminster this summer. We delayed the decision as long as we could,” said Ravens vice president of operations Bob Eller in

Who can concentrate on sports with U2 landing a spaceship in Baltimore?

Nestor Aparicio

For the 70,000 who will gather tomorrow night for a hot, steamy Baltimore sermon from Bono and U2 under the stars in the Charm City, the journey with the lads from Dublin began somewhere. For me, it all began with a simple little video called “I Will Follow” from just another nameless, faceless MTV Euro band with punker haircuts. I’ve now witnessed all of this U2 growth and glory over the past 30 years and I haven’t missed a tour since The Unforgettable Fire, when I camped out with Richard Abrahams in the Towson Hecht’s parking lot to score tickets. So while I’m planning a giant pool party at the Tiki Barge tomorrow that moves over to the Stalking Horse for some pre-show refreshments and Bud Lights, just know I’m not the average tourist U2 fan. This one’s kinda special for me — the most relevant band in the world is playing six blocks from my crib and I’m treating this like a national holiday. But I’ve got 27 years worth of blood on the bricks with Bono and the boys. And their music has helped create the soundtrack for the story of my life. I could tell you about

For Ravens' new Smiths, support is key, but in different ways

Luke Jones

Draft picks have been linked together throughout the history of the NFL, the 16-year existence of the Baltimore Ravens being no exception. Jonathan Ogden and Ray Lewis in 1996, two future Hall of Famers selected with the first two picks in franchise history. A year later, Peter Boulware and Jamie Sharper were chosen in the first two rounds, completing a linebacker trio that led one of the greatest defenses in league history to the Ravens’ only Super Bowl a few years later. More recently, Joe Flacco and Ray Rice came off the board as the 18th and 55th overall picks in 2008, signifying a transition from a decade of defensive domination to a heightened attempt to create more balance on the offensive side of the football. But no other pair of draft picks in franchise history has perhaps produced as unique a dichotomy in some ways but common threads in others as cornerback Jimmy Smith and wide receiver Torrey Smith in the first two rounds this weekend. As the two top draft picks were introduced to the local media in Owings Mills on Saturday, the two sat between general manager Ozzie Newsome and coach John Harbaugh, the juxtaposition of their

For Ravens’ new Smiths, support is key, but in different ways

Luke Jones

Draft picks have been linked together throughout the history of the NFL, the 16-year existence of the Baltimore Ravens being no exception. Jonathan Ogden and Ray Lewis in 1996, two future Hall of Famers selected with the first two picks in franchise history. A year later, Peter Boulware and Jamie Sharper were chosen in the first two rounds, completing a linebacker trio that led one of the greatest defenses in league history to the Ravens’ only Super Bowl a few years later. More recently, Joe Flacco and Ray Rice came off the board as the 18th and 55th overall picks in 2008, signifying a transition from a decade of defensive domination to a heightened attempt to create more balance on the offensive side of the football. But no other pair of draft picks in franchise history has perhaps produced as unique a dichotomy in some ways but common threads in others as cornerback Jimmy Smith and wide receiver Torrey Smith in the first two rounds this weekend. As the two top draft picks were introduced to the local media in Owings Mills on Saturday, the two sat between general manager Ozzie Newsome and coach John Harbaugh, the juxtaposition of their

Baltimore loses its No. 1 fan with passing of William Donald Schaefer

Nestor Aparicio

There will be a lot written and said about the honorable William Donald Schaefer today in Baltimore and throughout the state of Maryland. I can honestly say that I knew the man a little and as a kid who grew up watching him shape the landscape of my beloved hometown and later knew him in the “real” world, what you saw was what you got: he loved Baltimore and he loved Maryland and he literally put the “public” in a phrase that has now become trite: public servant. Schaefer served us all, especially those of us who love sports. I’m not sure Schaefer could recite the statistics of the 1958 Colts or the 1966 Orioles, but he could recite the statistics for what the economic impact and loss of the Colts did in 1984 and the value of the Orioles playing baseball in downtown Baltimore in 1992 and beyond. Every time I see a crowd like the pathetic one last night at Camden Yards, I think of what Schaefer would really think of the travesty the Orioles have become in terms of economic impact to stimulate the downtown business district. There’s no way he would’ve been Mayor and watched this

Get prepared for the summer of the NFL S**tstorm because it has arrived

Nestor Aparicio

I wanted to give the NFL skirmish 48 hours and a full weekend to let my emotions settle before I officially opined and got long-winded and loud-mouthed. So for those of you who love my rants and tirades, this blog is for you. For those of you who don’t like facts, figures, education and well-founded opinions about business in America circa 2011 and having a corporate and civic soul, this is a not going to be a happy read for you today to start your week. To whom much is given, much is expected. (That’s always been my battle cry and unrequited expectation from Orioles owner Peter Angelos, who has taken hundreds millions of dollars from our citizens only to leave our city empty and penniless on summer nights with 14 years of mostly last-place baseball.) And even though I know I should’ve known better knowing what I know about money, greedy people, big business and political influence (if not sheer corruption) I expected this NFL money grab to end somewhat amicably with both sides getting more than their fair share of wealth and happiness. But, the demon seeds of greed have given way to what has now become standard

Do you really care about this NFL money brawl?

Nestor Aparicio

I saw all of this coming three years ago in Palm Beach, Fla. at the NFL’s annual winter meetings amongst owners, NFL front office leaders and coaches. The owner’s voted to terminate the collective bargaining agreement, the words “uncapped year” become all the rage and here we are now at the fringe of a full-scale work stoppage, meltdown and the end of the world as we know it. I’ve spent a LOT of time over the past three years talking to virtually everyone I know in the NFL community about every facet of this negotiation in the hopes that I’d somehow be “expert” on what’s happening down in D.C. this week. I really thought that fans would be thirsty for what’s really happening behind the scenes and that somehow, there could be a happy ending behind the red, white and blue shield for 2011 football. Now that the witching hour has arrived it’s become very clear to me that the issues that are making the fight — percentages, salaries, trust, open books, medical insurance and a myriad of other arguments that have made 66 rounds of negotiating feel worthless — none of these are of any interest to most NFL

With latest win, Pittsburgh isn’t just our Daddy — but now our Granddaddy, too

Nestor Aparicio

These postseason losses are getting harder and harder for Baltimore to shake off. Like you, I awakened on Sunday to the sounds of silence. Like you, I spent the better part of Saturday night and all day Sunday and parts of the last two days trying to figure out and process just what the hell happened after 6 p.m. at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. Drew, Glenn and I have a little tradition going now where we shoot the postgame “gut reactions” as we cross the Fort Pittsburgh Bridge back into the city and as we chatted that same sick, sinking feeling grabbed me as I saw the city and the bridges behind me as we pulled out of the city – we lost to Pittsburgh again and we have to wait another year (at least) and wait for the stars to align yet again to have a chance to vanquish our oppressors. [youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTWmmvvef4Y[/youtube] No matter the opponent, all of these postseason wins and losses take on memorable twists and turns but this recent vomiting of a 14-point, halftime lead to the dreaded Pittsburgh Steelers after blowing the home field advantage six weeks earlier on a blown assignment on Troy Polamalu

5 lowest moments of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry

Luke Jones

You have to remember where you’ve been in order to get where you want to go. In this case, Ravens fans can only hope it’s a trip to the AFC Championship after a win at Heinz Field on Saturday after countless disappointments against their biggest rivals. Perhaps you’ve clicked this link because you’re a football masochist, secretly preparing yourself for the worst should Baltimore fall short yet again with the stakes as high as they’ve been since the conference championship game two years ago. A bloodcurdling look back at the low points in the history of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry reminds us that as enjoyable as the highs have been for the Ravens, the lows have been that much more devastating over the 15 years the two teams have battled on the gridiron. Beating the Steelers on Saturday would immediately become the greatest Baltimore moment in the rivalry’s history while a loss would only mark the latest chapter of bitter disappointment. With a few honorable mentions to get things started, here are the five lowest Baltimore moments of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry: Honorable mention >>>

Confessions of a lifetime of hatred for Pittsburgh from a real Baltimore sports fan

Nestor Aparicio

It’s a big, emotional week of football in Baltimore and the reason it’s so significant is because of our civic desire to have another purple parade at the Inner Harbor and the sheer nausea we all feel in the pits of our bellies about the fact that at 8 p.m. on Saturday night this could be the worse loss of our lives all over again. Just like all of our January losses to the likes of Indianapolis and Pittsburgh and Cleveland and New York. Or, it can potentially extinguish the 40 years of domination from the city of Pittsburgh, but specifically the Steelers and their arrogant, obnoxious fan base here in the region. This is an epic throwdown between two cities that don’t like each other but a rivalry that is so embarrassingly lopsided that it makes the Roadrunner look like a winner. I’m up to my eyeballs in rattlesnakes throwing parties, organizing bus trips and running WNST.net – 12 hours of radio, the daily newspaper, text service plus all of our social media endeavors on Facebook and Twitter that truly is Baltimore’s best and most comprehensive sports coverage in the world. And for those of you who know me,

Top 5 moments of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry

Luke Jones

Saturday marks the 33rd meeting (including playoffs) between the Ravens and Steelers in the 15 years since the NFL returned to Baltimore. With Pittsburgh holding a 20-12 all-time edge and always coming out on top when the stakes are at their highest, the highlights are admittedly scarce from the Baltimore perspective despite the matchup blossoming into the most intense rivalry in the NFL. A conflict bred from off-field venom and disdain (circa 2001) has morphed into mutual respect and even tighter competition in recent years as the last six meetings in the regular season have been decided by four or fewer points (the Steelers won 23-14 victory in the 2008 AFC Championship). The divisional-round encounter will add another memorable chapter to Baltimore-Pittsburgh lore, but before looking ahead to potential triumph or bitter disappointment, we look back at the top 5 moments (with a couple honorable mentions added for good measure) in the history of Ravens vs. Steelers — from the Baltimore perspective. And for our Pittsburgh brethren lurking and ready to chime in, be sure to check back later in the week for the five worst moments in the Ravens-Steelers rivalry. Honorable mention >>>

All Pittsburgh bustrips and major purple party on sale now!!!

Nestor Aparicio

With the Ravens moving on to Pittsburgh for a 4:30 p.m. AFC Divisional Playoff game this Saturday, WNST proudly continues out tradition of taking you to the game and planning the best purple pre-game parties on the planet. You can buy tickets for our bustrip ($350 all inclusive) or our Purple Playoff Pep Rally & Indoor Tailgate Party at the Pittsburgh Westin ($12) here now…

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