Storyline: The Ravens’ offense in 2016 is loaded with high-quality skill players.
The Baltimore Ravens are primed to go from third to first in the AFC North. Why? It’s offensive depth. Baltimore is loaded at key positions.
Courtesy: Fansided.com
Let’s start at RB where Justin Forsett is the clear starter. Although he’s coming off a season-ending broken arm, he should be able to rush for 1000 yards or more. And the Ravens really improved the RB position in the off-season. They re-signed Terrance West, brought in Trent Richardson as a free agent, and drafted Kenneth Dixon (Louisiana Tech) in the 4th round — plus they still have Lorenzo Taliaferro and Buck Allen on the roster.
At WR there’s speed, speed, and more speed. It starts with Steve Smith, who’ll come back faster and hungrier than ever in what will likely be his final NFL season. Behind Smith there’s that surprise playmaker from last year, Kamar Aiken, who will be competing for the second receiver spot along with speedsters, Mike Wallace and Breshad Perriman, who were 1st Round draftees last year.
And it will be interesting to see what happens with the 4-6 guys who’ll be competing for roster spots. That group includes Michael Campanaro who, when healthy, is a Wes Welker-type receiver and can be used in the return game, too. Then there’s Jeremy Butler, who played well in limited action towards the end of last year; Kennan Reynolds, the highly publicized former Navy QB, drafted in the 6th Round; and Chris Moore, who was drafted last year out of Cincinnati.
Courtesy: bsndenver.com
At TE I agree with Crockett Gilmore’s comments: “This is the best group in the NFL.” I expect a lot of production at this spot and it all starts with Gilmore, who should have monster numbers and make the Pro-Bowl. The other TEs provide plenty of depth. Benjamin Watson, who signed on the first day of free agency, brings veteran leadership to this young group. And it will also be interesting to see how Maxx Williams develops in his second NFL season. Dennis Pitta and Nick Boyle are the big question marks. For Pitta it’s about staying healthy and for Boyle it’s about avoiding suspensions.
With Joe Flacco coming back at QB, and depth all around at skill positions, the Ravens’ offense should carry the team to another AFC North division crown.
