Here’s a collection of rumors that pertain to the Baltimore Ravens.
“He’s coming in to compete to be a starting wide receiver,” said Ravens GM Ozzie Newsome regarding the possibility of starting rookie WR Torrey Smith. Of course that’s the intention for every player drafted in the first-two rounds but Smith will have his work cut out for him considering that he’ll be competing with Anquan Boldin and Derrick Mason. The good news for him is that these players are used more as possession receivers rather than vertical threats which is what the Ravens plan on using Smith for.
Ozzie Newsome discussed Sergio Kindle’s status for the upcoming season with season ticket holders during a conference call held on Wednesday.
“Well, Sergio has made a lot of progress from the time he fell down the stairs,” Newsome said, via the Baltimore Sun. “Right now, it’s still in medical hands. We are very optimistic that there may be an opportunity for him to get back on the field. When will that happen? We’re not sure. We’re very optimistic that Sergio will get back on the field at some point.”
It’s hard to project when Kindle will be available for to the team because he’s recovering from a head injury suffered before the start of the 2010 season. Even if he is ready to return there’s no guarantee that he’ll be effective right away. Baltimore needs to improve their pass rush and the uncertainty that surrounds Kindle could force them to look at free agent options.
In the same conference call, GM Ozzie Newsome mentioned that there’s a chance that OT Jared Gaither will be back come next season.
“If we operate under the 2010 rules,” Newsome said, per Jamison Hensley of the Baltimore Sun, “we would still have Jared Gaither. . . . He’d get a chance to come back and start also.”
Gaither had a largely disappointing season in 2010 to say the least. A back injury wound up costing him the entire season and the Ravens have since drafted OT Jah Reid to give them depth at the position. Newsome’s comments aren’t exactly an endorsement of Gaither and his ability but instead suggest that they’re willing to bring him back at discounted price. Will only four-years of service, Gaither is likely to be a restricted-free agent once the offseason is finally underway so the Ravens could keep him for a limited amount of money and add depth at an important position.
Free Agents
Newsome also mentioned that the Ravens will be targeting a pass rusher, a backup quarterback and a full back in free agency.
Looking for the latest NFL Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow NFL Trade Rumors on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NFL News and Rumors for all 32 teams!
