Welcome to this weekend’s discussion. As always, comment with your opinions, but try to keep it fairly clean and friendly.
This weekend’s question: Which new Ravens player (rookie or new acquisition) have you been most impressed with thus far in the preseason?
This question will be up all weekend, so while you’re stuck inside waiting out Hurricane Irene, comment with your thoughts!
I’m loving what Vonta Leach brings as a replacement to Le’Ron McClain. He’s a bruiser and an awesome blocker, always happy to give up his own body to help Ray Rice pound out another yard or two. I think he’ll do a lot for the offense this season, and help out for some of the offensive line’s shortcomings.
I’ve also been very impressed with both Jimmy Smith and Tyrod Taylor as rookies.
This is an easy one…the trade for Lee Evans is easily the bright spot for the Ravens’ offseason.
Agree with mgw. I’m optimistic about the maturing tight ends as well.
All great answers thus far. I’m going to cheat and provide two.
On offense, Evans can provide what the Ravens have been looking for as a compliment to Flacco’s strong arm. Between Evans on deep routes and Boldin as a strong, savvy underneath/possession receiver, the passing game should stretch defenses and let Ray go to work.
On defense, Jimmy Smith looks like he could be a stud. While he gave up a few passes to Dwayne Bowe, he was all over Bowe and just didn’t turn his head. This type of miscue, along with the blown coverage assignment against Washington, seems like something that could be easily corrected. I can’t wait to watch him progress all season.
Lee Evans has been huge for the Ravens. Especially considering a disappointing camp for Torrey Smith. On defense I’m also impressed with Bernard Pollard.
I’ll be honest, I think Leach is just an OK addition. He’s not going to carry the ball, he’s not much of a pass cacther, both of which McClain had an advantage over him.
I understand what you’re saying, but Leach is the best blocking back in the league, and knows that he is the key to Ray Rice’s success. Moreover, Leach is not the type of headache that McClain was at times. With Leach, there won’t be any more spitting at punters or clamoring for carries. Leach knows his role, and will do it to the best of his ability.
Just my point of view on him. I think we both agree that he will be a good addition to the offense.
-E