Baltimore Ravens Minicamp Review

First, the offensive line: Michael Oher moved to the left side (insert Blind Side quip here) in replace of Jared Gaither, who sat out with an injury. This isn’t just due to injury, but because Oher showed he could handle left tackle last year when he started five games for Gaither. I do not expect Oher to relinquish this position for a decade or so. There’s also still speculation about a Gaither trade, with rumors of him going to Buffalo. Depending on the return, I’m not sure parting with Gaither is a good idea. Oniel Cousins would probably take over at right tackle if Gaither were to leave, and I would rather see him as a backup.
 
Top draft picks Sergio Kindle and Terrence Cody both took some snaps with the first team defense. I’m a big Cody fan, and he was my favorite Ravens pick in the draft. He has already dropped about 20 pounds from 370 to 350, and plans to be at 335 by the start of the season. Cody showed athleticism and agility for a large man, and impressed veteran center Matt Birk. With Cody and Ngata in the middle of the defensive line, you have to be excited. They should be a top tandem for years to come. I expect Cody and Ngata plugging the middle of the line to lead to big years for Kindle as well as for Terrell Suggs to get back to double-digit sacks.
 
Newly acquired wideouts Anquan Boldin and Donte Stallworth had a rapport with quarterback Joe Flacco. Stallworth looked good after missing all of last year due to suspension. Boldin ought to be exactly what he was in Arizona, and what the Ravens have been missing.
 
Cornerbacks Lardarius Webb and Fabian Washington didn’t play, which leaves me very worried about the position. Sixth round pick Ramon Harewood went down with a knee injury and will miss three to four weeks. I was intrigued to see this behemoth (6’7” 360 lbs.) work out in pre-season. He is definitely a project having only played four years of football, so I hope he can get back on the field and impress.