Returning Players
Free-Agent Signings
Rookies
Projected Starters
Smith is a lock for the starting lineup, barring any injuries. He is one of the team’s top defenders and most important players, and he expects to have a better season in 2016 now that he’s more than a year removed from a Lisfranc foot injury. It’s not quite as clear who will get the starting nod opposite of Smith. Wright is the favorite going into training camp, as his impressive play in the second half of last season earned him a three-year contract extension in the offseason. But Davis will push for the starting job. He looked good in limited action last season before suffering a torn ACL. He is expected to get back on the field at the start of training camp, where the competition for the starting job will really get underway.
Key Role Players
Powers, a former starter with the Arizona Cardinals, is in line for a critical role as the team’s nickel cornerback. He thrives as a slot corner, and the Ravens often have three cornerbacks on the field. Powers impressed during the offseason practices, and this season is critical for him because he’s on a one-year contract. Young will likely back up Powers in the slot, and the fourth-round pick will have time to get acclimated to the NFL. The Ravens are thin at outside cornerback, so Price could find himself in an important role if any of the outside starters go down with injuries.
Most Anticipated Battle
The competition between Wright and Davis for the starting job is one to watch during training camp. The veteran Arrington is also likely to find himself in a competition for a roster spot given then additions of Powers and Young. The Ravens typically keep five or six cornerbacks, so he’ll likely be battling with Canady, Price and Wilson for a roster spot.
