The Ravens should have everyone back in Baltimore this week.
The team will hold its three-day mandatory minicamp beginning Tuesday, which will wrap up the offseason calendar. All of the veterans are expected to participate in the practices, and here are some storylines to watch:
Arrival of Terrell Suggs
This week will be the first time since the divisional-round playoff loss in January the veteran outside linebacker takes the field. The 13-year veteran trains on his own during the voluntary portion of the offseason, and he has impressed reporters in recent years with how he's reported to minicamp in great shape. Suggs adds another element to the field with his demeanor, leadership and propensity for trash talk, and practices with be a little more entertaining with Suggs in the mix.
Starting Offensive Line (Mostly) Back
One of the expected strengths of the roster going into next season is the offensive line, which will return all five starters from last year's group. During OTAs, however, the line has looked much different because some veterans haven't been practicing. That should change this week when left tackle Eugene Monroe, left guard Kelechi Osemele, center Jeremy Zuttah and right guard Marshal Yanda all return. It's unknown if Zuttah will participate fully in practice after reportedly having offseason hip surgery. Right tackle Rick Wagner could continue to be sidelined as he recovers from a foot injury he suffered at the end of the season.
Rookie Development
The rookie class has spent the last six weeks soaking up as much information as possible since joining the Ravens. Minicamp is a bit of a midterm exam for the newcomers, as this is their first opportunity to line up next to all the veterans. The rookies have drawn strong early reviews, but the veterans will certainly challenge them this week. Minicamp practices will give an early indication of which players are poised to make an immediate impact in 2015.
Revamped Secondary
Improving the secondary was a top priority this offseason, and the Ravens have high expectations for the unit. Veteran cornerback Lardarius Webb will be back at practice to start building camaraderie with newcomers like safety Kendrick Lewis and cornerback Kyle Arrington. Cornerback Jimmy Smith may also participate in drills as he continues to recover from a season-ending foot injury. The state of the secondary will attract plenty of attention leading up to the season opener, and this week will be the first time to see the full group in action.
Keep Everyone Healthy
Nothing can derail a practice like having a player go down with an injury. The Ravens have already lost undrafted rookie cornerback Julian Wilson (broken foot) for the season, and also had receivers Michael Campanaro (thigh) and Aldrick Robinson (knee) get sidelined until training camp. Full contact still isn't allowed during minicamp practices, but injuries can occur even without the pads. Just as important as getting the reps, the Ravens want to ensure that the players leave Baltimore healthy at the end of the week.
