Six Observations From Week One Of Ravens Training Camp
Baltimore (WJZ) -- The Ravens have wrapped up the first week of camp and it wasn't without its fair share of excitement. Here's a look at some of the notable observations in the first week of camp:
Mike Wallace Could Be A Steal
Not much was made of the Mike Wallace acquisition when it took place in the offseason, but the Ravens sure do look smart with this move. Mike Wallace has been nothing short of spectacular since signing with the team. His rapport with Joe Flacco has been almost instantaneous. One of the reasons why Baltimore struggled last year was due to lack of speed on the outside. Wallace addresses that issue and then some with his presence on the football field. He's not just a go-route player either. His route tree is versatile as Ravens fans will soon find out.
Joe Flacco Is Back
Those who failed to truly appreciate what Joe Flacco brought to the franchise were given a rude awakening last season when he went down with an ACL and MCL tear. The remaining options for the Ravens were pedestrian to say the least. Flacco has always made it known to anyone who would listen that he would be ready for the start of camp and he remained true to his word.
It's been clear since the beginning of camp that Flacco is suffering no ill-effects from his knee injury. He's looked sharp since Day 1 and looks to be enjoying being back out on the football field. Having his best friend Dennis Pitta back on the field likely makes things a whole lot better for the former Super Bowl MVP.
Kamalei Correa Looks Good -- Really Good
Players and coaches alike are starting to take notice of Kamalei Correa. During the practice open to the public on Monday, Correa got into it with Dennis Pitta and neither Joe Flacco or Coach John Harbaugh cared for it. But what can't be denied is the impact he's having on the defense. He's already practicing with the first-team at both the inside and outside linebacker position. His ability to react quickly and correctly on any given play makes it difficult for coaches to keep him away from the football field. Preseason has yet to commence, but fans shouldn't be too worried about this guy. He's going to be special.
Secondary Will Be Better Than Last Year
How much better will the secondary be than the previous season? That remains to be seen. The secondary is always the toughest unit to gauge in camp simply because of the way practice is run. But the pieces are in place to get the job done. Newly acquired safety Eric Weddle looks comfortable in his role on the team. Baltimore will ask a lot from him early on as the coaching staff aims for this unit to improve mightily this season. Jimmy Smith has struggled so far, but fans shouldn't be too concerned with him. He's likely taking it slow after dealing with minor foot surgery a few weeks ago.
Terrance West Shines As Trent Richardson Exits
There's a lot of buzz surrounding Terrance West and it's not hard to see why. He's looked incredible in camp and has pushed himself into getting some work with the first-team offense. Justin Forsett hasn't been awful by any means but the starting spot will go to the best player on the team. Right now that player is Terrance West. On the other hand, Trent Richardson was released by the Ravens on Monday to make room for WR Chuck Jacobs. This is simply a case of Baltimore needing more wide receivers on the field and Richardson is clearly the odd man out for failing to stay healthy. We may not have heard the last of him however as the Ravens have worked with him closely for a few months and liked what they saw.
Injured Stars Yet To Return
The young players have taken advantage of the opportunities present due to big-time stars missing in action, but you know the team is excited to get some of these guys back. Terrell Suggs, Steve Smith, Elvis Dumervil, and Lorenzo Taliaferro are all huge contributors to the team who have yet to see the field. When they return, their presence will certainly change the landscape of the roster.