Offensive Tackle

The Ravens signed Bryant McKinnie right before the season and he did a solid job at left tackle this year, though he declined down the stretch. However, McKinnie will be 33 this offseason and has a history of weight problems, hence why he was available right before the season. Michael Oher has proven to be so much better on the right side in his career (ironically for the star of the Blindside novel), so the Ravens should start looking for a new left tackle. Unfortunately, this is a weak class for left tackles and they don’t pick until 29, so they may have to settle for a developmental prospect. They drafted Jah Reid in the 3^rd round last year, but his long term future may be guard.

Middle Linebacker

Ray Lewis will return for the 2012 season, but there are no guarantees about 2013 for him. Remember, he’ll be 38 heading into that season. Even if he can stay play at a high level (wouldn’t doubt it), he just might not want to. Meanwhile, they lack a solid starter inside next to him when they go to a 3-4. Expect them to target a young linebacker, groom him next to Lewis and have him eventually take over in 2013 or 2014. Dont’a Hightower makes a lot of sense if he’s available at 29.

Rush Linebacker

It may sound weird because their 48 sacks was one of the highest totals in the league, but only Terrell Suggs had more than 5.5 sacks this season. When Suggs struggled in the playoffs, they couldn’t get to the quarterback. They need to find someone else capable for doing so. Jarrett Johnson is great in coverage and against the run, but isn’t much of a threat rushing the passer. He might not even be back anyway as he’s a free agent and may leave to join Chuck Pagano in Indianapolis. They need a capable pass rusher opposite Suggs.

 

Safety

It might sound unbelievable, but Ed Reed turns 34 in September. He’s had some injuries in his past so he might not be someone you can count on for 3-4 more years. They should look for a successor for him. In the meantime, they could use someone to play next to him. They missed Dawan Landry this season. Bernard Pollard was only good for injuring Rob Gronkowski and he’s a free agent anyway.

Center

Matt Birk is another aging player the Ravens have. The NFL’s Man of the Year, Birk turns 36 this offseason and, always a class act, has offered to train his eventual successor. They should try to find one through the draft.

Running Back

Ricky Williams is retired. However, they need someone to spell Ray Rice for a few carries per game, assuming Rice is resigned, but it sounds like he’ll be franchised so he should be back next season.

Guard

Ben Grubbs is another prominent free agent of the Ravens. They shelled out big bucks to Marshal Yanda opposite him last year and they might not be able to give Grubbs what he wants. If he leaves, 2011 3^rd round pick Jah Reid could be an internal replacement. If not, they may have to go external.