oldno82

I don't think its to win the SB now as much as it is to protect the investment in Joe. With a lack of blindside protection, its just a matter of time before he gets knocked out. In that same vein, I'd like to see us replace Taylor with a more veteran, or more able, backup. I don't dislike Tyrod, I just don't think he could lead us to some victories if needed. I do think the Ravens FO goal is to reach the playoffs every year.

Pees did do a good job what with all the injuries and age, but I'm hoping to see more 'hell unleashed' this coming season.

I think Williams is going to be a keeper.

I like this guy too. I think he'll be starting by mid-season. Maybe sooner.

He was a beast at blocking but very few WR's are.

I don't have any details other than its reported to have incentives and workout bonuses that push it up to the 7 million number, so it sounds like the Ravens protected themselves and got a good LT for a year or two. I agree that we need to get an LT for the future next year, Papa. The Sun says there are weight clauses as well.

LaQuan has looked at least decent at times. Don't know what happened to Doss' hands---that was supposed to be his big talent. He might get it back.

Well McKinnie's back. That was key. Yes we could use another WR like Boldin but there is a chance that one of the guys already on this team will step up. Lets not forget that Boldin wasn't getting much separation the last 2 years. (But man could he fight for the ball!)

This is great news though I hope they got him cheap. Nonetheless, if he stays fit, he should do the job of protecting Joe until we can get a young stud to take his place. This year's Ravens is shaping up to be one helluva of an interesting team!!! (Kudos to Oz, the coaches, and the rest of the FO for making all this happen). Really looking forward to this year now.

Powerful story!

Not nearly as worried about WR as I am about LT. I wonder if FA Winston could move back to LT like he did in college.

I'm beginning to think the Ravens don't want him under any circumstances. I think (my opinion only) they don't like his weight problems and motivation, especially after he's got a ring now. He's probably just looking for a big bonus so he can 'retire on the job'. Still, its incredible that we don't have a LT on the roster and there's none but him left in FA. Oz ought to pull a trade even if means giving up a second or third round draft pick because this position is so important and you don't find good LTs in the lower rounds.

Well the draft has come and gone and it doesn't appear we picked up a starter at LT. And McKinnie is talking to the Dolphins in his home town of Miami. I'm getting a bad feeling about this again.

The way he goes up for the ball is reminiscent of Boldin.

The Ravens are the first team mentioned in this article: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1621026-nfl-draft-2013-results-biggest-winners-losers-of-the-nfl-draft/page/2

I just don't have any confidence in Harewood or Reid. They need to protect Joe's blind side and I don't think they have anybody on the roster that can do that consistently. McKinnie's price may have to be met.

Osemele should stay at guard and Oher at RT. Somehow, Oz needs to address this either through FA, trade, or this draft. And there ain't much out there now.

We won't repeat this year but we will be a very good team that may make the playoffs. We may surprise a lot of people too---including myself. Our D looks to be better this year than last year's version. Anybody know how we're going to replace Boldin and get a LT?

The first three picks have been awesome! I wouldn't change a thing. Now if we can just pick up a LT. Will be difficult in these last rounds.

Sounds like a very good pick. They said Ray Lewis was too small too.

I like the pick and it will really help our secondary. Elam is a hitter that flies around and fits the Ravens' mold.

Here comes the old fart with a comment now: I remember when the draft consisted of 25 picks or so and was completed in a day if I remember correctly. This would have been back in the 50s and 60s. Does anybody know why we just have 7 rounds today? I'm guessing its because we have 32 teams instead of the 12-14 that existed back then.

You guys are making feel better.

I want to see an LT get drafted that can start either Day one or soon thereafter (if McKinnie is back). I don't care what round, what college, just so long as he can protect Joe because this talk about Osemele starting at LT is crazy---he's a great guard but an inadequate LT who can't stop the speed DE's and LB's in pass protection.

It all depends how much heat is generated by the media...if the answer is 'none' Papa is right. Otherwise, so long knucklehead and don't let the door hit you in the ass on the way out of the training room.