Quarterback
Robert Griffin III is battling the Ravens' history of keeping just two quarterbacks, something they've done every year since 2009 when they had Troy Smith and John Beck backing up Joe Flacco. Head Coach John Harbaugh has been greatly impressed with how Griffin has carried himself on and off the field. The No. 2-overall pick and 2012 Offensive Rookie of the Year looks to restore his former shine.
Running Back
The No. 2 spot is up for grabs between Javorius Allen and Kenneth Dixon. Allen was one of the Ravens' most improved players last year and coaches trusted him with the ball. But Dixon is also an alluring talent if he can stay healthy and eligible. Both are looking to prove they should be the first option to step in behind Alex Collins.
Wide Receiver
Breshad Perriman, the Ravens' 2015 first-round pick, is on the bubble. He's been healthy thus far this offseason, but had some drops in practice this summer and didn't shine the same way he did last year in Organized Team Activities and minicamp. He has to put it together, and fast, because he's working against younger competition who may offer more on special teams. Tim White was very impressive last offseason before injuring his thumb and is one of the leading kick/punt return options. The Ravens' pair of rookie draft picks, Jordan Lasley and Jaleel Scott, need to prove they can make an immediate impact on offense and special teams.
Tight End
Maxx Williams, a second-round pick in 2015, has to prove Baltimore needs his services. The Ravens love their tight ends, and it wouldn't be a surprise if they kept four. However, Baltimore could keep an extra quarterback this year, which could mean a cut elsewhere. Thus, Williams will battle Nick Boyle and Patrick Ricard as the top blockers and Hayden Hurst and Mark Andrews as the primary pass-catchers.
Offensive Line
The domino on the offensive line is at right tackle, where it appears to be James Hurst versus Orlando Brown Jr. Hurst did well at guard last season, and it may be his best position. With that said, he's also shown he's a capable starting tackle and his experience (32 career starts, plus playoffs) is a major plus. Brown is switching from left to right tackle and working to hone his craft and get in better physical shape. He has the ability to be a Week 1 starter, but will have to prove it throughout training camp. If Brown is ready, Hurst and Lewis will have a good battle for the starting left guard spot. Lewis is also an option at center, where Matt Skura is hoping to emerge as the starter like Ryan Jensen did a year ago. While it's not a glamorous position, this year's offensive line competition should be one of the best in camp.
Defensive Line
The Ravens have a lot of young, talented players on their defensive line. Despite being a third-round pick in 2016, Bronson Kaufusi has to show he's ready to make an impact or he could find himself on the wrong side of the bubble. Ricard must continue to prove that he's still versatile enough to play on either offense or defense, as well as special teams. Brent Urban and Willie Henry are both looking to prove that they're starters deserving of a lot of snaps.
Inside Linebacker
Albert McClellan has been an integral part of the team for a long time, but he's going to have to fend off younger, healthier options at his position. Kamalei Correa has primarily moved to outside linebacker, but if he's going to make the team, he has to show that he's position flexible and can contribute inside if needed. Bam Bradley will need to show that he's healthy and can pick up where he left off if he's going to challenge Patrick Onwuasor for the starting job next to C.J. Mosley.
Outside Linebacker
Correa will be the player to watch among this group. The 2016 second-round pick requested to move back to outside linebacker after spending last season inside. He feels more comfortable and has looked good, but has more competition outside. Correa has to make himself useful on special teams. Myles Humphrey is an undrafted rookie to keep an eye on, as the Ravens have moved the college defensive end to linebacker (both inside and outside). Tyus Bowser, Tim Williams and Za'Darius Smith are all competing for reps behind projected starters Terrell Suggs and Matthew Judon.
Cornerback
The competition for the starting spot opposite Jimmy Smith (if he's back) should be the best. The younger Marlon Humphrey may have the inside track, as the team believes he could be a Pro Bowler in the making, but 10-year veteran Brandon Carr is a competitive veteran who has only known starting, so he won't give up his spot easily.
Safety
The Ravens have six talented safeties and can't keep them all. Often, special teams plays a big role in determining who makes the roster at this position because safeties are well-suited for multiple special teams groups. This could come down to youth versus experience as second-year standout Chuck Clark, rookie sixth-round pick DeShone Elliott and free-agent addition Kai Nacua will compete with veteran special teams standout and versatile defensive contributor Anthony Levine Sr.
