Are The Baltimore Ravens Ready For The Big Show?

Scribe Written on May 12, 2009

OWINGS MILLS, MARYLAND - MAY 8: Linebackers Ray Lewis #52 and Tavares Gooden #56 of the Baltimore Ravens seen during minicamp at the practice facility on May 8, 2009 in Owings Mills, Maryland. (Photo by Ned Dishman/Getty Images)

(Photo by Ned Dishman/Getty Images)

Now that free agency and the NFL Draft are in the rear view mirror and the dust has settled, the Baltimore Ravens have geared up for a run at Super Bowl 44.

Several key players are gone, and many fresh faces have been brought in. Are the new additions enough to push the team that were four minutes away from last year's Super Bowl over the hump? We will break it all down, and see where Baltimore is left standing.

Key Departures

Bart Scott, LB
Jason Brown, C
Chris McAlister, CB
Lorenzo Neal, FB
Jim Leohnard, S

The loss of Brown to free agency (STL) was a massive blow to an up and coming offensive line.

In his first season as a starter, following the release of incumbent Mike Flynn, Brown emerged as one of the league's elite centers. Displaying great power in the running attack, solid pass protection, and the mental capacity to make necessary adjustments on the line, Brown proved to be invaluable to one of the league's youngest lines.

After Scott left for the NYJ, many have questioned who will follow the Ravens motto of 2008 and become the "Next Man Up." The Mad-Backer posted another excellent showing playing ILB, and leaves a big void in the heart of the Ravens' defense.

After battling injuries for several years, and alleged conflicts with staff, McAlister was released after a stellar career in Charm City. When healthy, McAlister is still capable of playing on a Pro Bowl level, and brings a lot of experience and attitude to the table.

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