Ravens cornerback Cary Williams declined a three-year contract extension offer from the Ravens worth about $15 million, according to Aaron Wilson of The Baltimore Sun.

The 27 year old had signed his $1.972 million second-round tender in May and said at the time that he hoped the two sides would get back to the negotiating table.

Now, he is choosing to play out that tender in hopes of getting a better offer when he becomes an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

“My philosophy on doing that was just having confidence in myself,” Williams told Wilson. “I know myself, I know my ability. I know my work ethic. At the end of the day, the offer, I felt like I could always make that. I felt it wasn’t good enough and my agent said it wasn’t good enough. I love playing for the Ravens. I would love to be here, but right now we’re just in the negotiation stage.

“For me to say the money ain’t good, that wasn’t the case. It’s good money, but my job is to make the most money I possibly can for my family. I’m thinking about my daughter and any future children I want to have. I want some kind of security, and the deal we had wasn’t like that.”

Williams’ play was a pleasant surprise last season, as he emerged as a starter for the Ravens after a slow start to his NFL career. He was drafted by Tennessee in the seventh round out of Division II Washburn. The Ravens picked him up off the Titans’ practice squad in 2009.

Williams underwent surgery on his right hip last offseason after recording a career-high 77 tackles and 18 pass deflections in 2012. Williams says his hip is 100 percent, but he now favors his left hip because of overcompensation.

He will have to overcome any health obstacles, plus the competition from teammate Jimmy Smith, if he is going to get the contract he desires.

Just as he has his whole life, Williams is betting on himself.

“Cary was fired up about his value and what he’s worth after a successful year,” Marc Lillibridge, Williams’ agent, told Wilson. “We feel like if he can play as good or better than last season and lead the Ravens to a Super Bowl, then he’ll get his just due. I completely agree with that. You roll the dice on yourself your entire life.”

Wilson believes there could be  middle ground for Williams in the future, noting there are many starting cornerbacks that average above $5 million, but won’t get Nnamdi Asomugha, Darrelle Revis or even Lardarius Webb money.

Williams hopes that middle ground will be found in Baltimore.

“Although Williams turned down the Ravens’ contract offer, that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s engaged in an exit strategy,” wrote Wilson. “Ideally, Williams would like to remain with the Ravens depending on the level of contract talks.”

Birk Sympathetic To Replacement Refs, Boldin Not So Much

After playing in two preseason games with the league’s replacement officials, Ravens receiver Anquan Boldin sees a need for change.

The 10-year veteran told The Sun’s Peter Schmuck, “they’ve really got to do something” about officiating. “Some of the calls out there … the way the game was being stopped. It just looked unprofessional,” Boldin said.

The officials have made a few blunders in each of the Ravens games, the most memorable from the first game when the official referred to Atlanta as Arizona on more than one occasion. In Friday’s contest against the Lions, the officiating crew needed nearly three minutes of conferences to figure out how to mark off an 18-yard facemask penalty on Detroit near the end of the first quarter.

The Lions team website writer Mike O’Hara said the refs were a “disgrace on any level of officiating football.”

But Ravens center Matt Birk is more sympathetic to the situation these men and women have suddenly found themselves in.

“They’ve been thrown into the fire on the biggest stage of the world,” he told Schmuck. “These guys have been thrown together and probably have never worked together before.”

In the CSNBaltimore.com video below, former Vice President of Officiating Mike Pereira discusses the latest in the league’s negotiations with the referees.

Zenitz: Cundiff Coming Across As ‘Very Bitter’

After Friday’s home preseason debut, in which both incumbent kicker Billy Cundiff and rookie challenger Justin Tucker were perfect on field-goal attempts, Cundiff told reporters he isn’t competing against Tucker.

Instead, he said he is competing against himself because it’s his job to lose.

“The way the coaches have approached me and the way everybody in the organization has approached it is that if I kick well, this is my job,” Cundiff said after the game. “This isn’t necessarily a competition between myself and Justin. This is really a competition with myself and how good I can be.”

The Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz believes Cundiff’s comments aren’t coming across in a positive light.

“Cundiff [is] coming across very bitter towards the competition with Tucker,” Zenitz tweeted. “Almost seems resentful that the comp. is even being viewed as close.”

J. Smith Developing ‘Serious Issue?’

Cornerback Jimmy Smith was right there in coverage with one of the league’s best wide receivers, Calvin Johnson, in Friday’s preseason contest. But Smith didn’t look for the ball at the last moment and ended up allowing a touchdown reception.

Turns out, he did the same thing in practice on Sunday, giving up another touchdown to 2011 Seattle Seahawks practice squad player Patrick Williams.

CSNBaltimore.com’s Ray Frager says it’s a forgivable mistake against a man called “Megatron,” but not with a receiver trying to make the roster.

“So, is this a serious issue with Smith’s technique or concentration or some other cause?” asked Frager. “Preseason is the time to figure this stuff out.

“As others have pointed out, the absence of Terrell Suggs likely means more blitzing, which means more leaving cornerbacks by their lonesome. So you can’t have a corner who’s not able to locate that oblong brown thing flying through the air.”

Dickson, Pitta Still On Schedule For Season Opener

So far, so good.

Tight ends Ed Dickson (shoulder sprain) and Dennis Pitta (broken hand) are still on schedule to play in the Ravens season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night, according to The Sun.

“It’s much better, a lot better,” Dickson said of his shoulder. “I can actually do some catching and stuff, and more conditioning. The progress is definitely pretty good. Hopefully I can get back there in a week or so. I’ll do anything possible to get out there for the season opener. I don’t want to miss those. I want to play [now], but I’m glad I still have these preseason games to get healthy.”

Pitta still isn’t cleared to catch any passes, but says he’ll be ready to go.

“With the hand, you’ve got to let the bone heal,” Pitta told The Sun. “We’re being smart with it and making sure that we’re doing all we can at the proper time. If we prepare right, we’ll be ready to go when the season starts.”

So Is T. Smith Fine Or Not?

There were some conflicting opinions about how receiver Torrey Smith looked in his return to practice yesterday after being held out of a few days of practice last week and the Lions game.

“Doesn’t look like Torrey Smith is affected by that ankle,” tweeted Ryan Mink. “He’s flying around the field.”

But CSNBaltimore.com’s J. Michael Falgoust saw something completely different, saying Smith “hobbled” through parts of practice.

“Smith clearly favored the ankle when he had to come to a sudden stop, plant and push off. When Smith had to do that, he came away with a limp. Flacco went to Smith on a short pass over the middle that went off of his hands. Smith limped away.

“That could jeopardize Smith’s ability to play in Thursday’s home game vs. the Jacksonville Jaguars. Coach John Harbaugh is more optimistic.”

You can take a look at some footage of Smith from yesterday’s practice in the video to the right. It’s limited, but what do you think?

Quick Hits

• @RavensInsider: Calvin Johnson: ‘They were blitzing a lot. They leave their DBs on an island. When that happens our guys get wide and we can’t wait.’ [Twitter]
• mattvensel: Jacoby Jones with a big gain on an end around. Why didn’t that work the 448 times they tried that with Donte Stallworth? [Twitter]
• Tweet after Omar Brown already notched three fumble recoveries and an interception in two preseason games. … @mattvensel: Sweet Jesus. Omar Brown recovered the onside kick. Word of advice, #Ravens fans: If you’re at a wedding with Omar Brown, don’t even bother trying to catch the garter or the bouquet. [Twitter]
• @RavensInsider: Courtney Upshaw said he’s down to 274 pounds. “With the cardio and losing the weight,” Upshaw said, “it really helped me a lot.” [Twitter]
• @RavensCommunity: @Ravens Matt Birk kicks off back to school! Distributing school supplies to 150 Baltimore-area students! [Twitter]
• @BPierce_30: Love the fan base in bmore!!! Shout out to everyone that came out last night
• Hey Jamison Hensley, who will be the starters on the Ravens’ offensive line? “By the end of the season: LT McKinnie, LG Osemele, C Birk, RG Yanda, RT Oher.” [ESPN]

A few scuffles during training camp are a pretty regular occurrence in the NFL, especially since players endure regular three-hour practices in the intense heat of the sun.

But the fight between wide receiver Antonio Brown and cornerback Ike Taylor – for the second time at Steelers training camp – was not considered “normal.”

“[T]his went beyond the usual training-camp tussle,” wrote Gerry Dulac of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

The altercation began when Taylor tried to wrestle a ball away from Brown in the end zone, according to the report. They fought for the ball on the ground, and when they eventually got back on their feet, Brown threw a punch at Taylor.

Several teammates intervened, but it didn’t stop there.

A “spirited” goal-line drill toward the end of practice seemed to further incite the players, especially safety Ryan Clark and Taylor.

Once practice concluded, Taylor went after Brown in the middle of the field and the players had to be separated again, this time even by Steelers General Manager Kevin Colbert.

The teammates eventually walked off the field together with Taylor holding an ice pack to his forehead.

Head Coach Mike Tomlin downplayed the Sunday fight.

“These guys understand what we’re working for, and when we step into stadiums, we’re together,” Tomlin said. “When you fight your brother, sometimes, it gets a little heated … the guys understand what that’s about, and they’ll leave it on the grass where it should be.”

But he won’t be able to give the same speech if a third brawl occurs, says ESPN’s Jamison Hensley.

“If a third altercation occurs between Brown and Taylor, head coach Mike Tomlin can’t chalk it up to ‘those things happen’ like he did Sunday,” wrote the AFC North blogger. “Brown and Taylor are the best at their positions on this team. Tomlin can’t allow them to keep butting heads (sorry, Chad Johnson).”

Does Thompson Have Edge Over Streeter?

It’s unclear how many receivers the Ravens will keep on the roster in 2012.

If they keep six like they did the two last seasons, that final spot could come down to undrafted rookie free agent Deonte Thompson and sixth-round draft pick Tommy Streeter. (David Reed could also be in the mix once he returns from an ACL injury.)

In order to get that sixth spot, if available, Head Coach John Harbaugh said each competing receiver will have to 1) make plays on offense and 2) play an important role on special teams.

“Thompson would appear to be the more capable of the two to help out on special teams,” wrote the Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz.

The undrafted rookie also appears to be making more plays on offense. After a standout performance in the preseason opener with three catches for 53 yards and a touchdown, Thompson continued his streak in practice. He’s since caught a few more touchdown grabs from quarterback Tyrod Taylor.

Harbaugh said that Thompson had a lull for a couple days in camp prior to the contest in Atlanta, but said he’s enjoyed another big spark.

“He’s making a little bit of a move,” the head coach added.

But don’t count out Streeter.

He’s still a little raw and lacks polish as a route runner, say Zenitz, but he’s 6-foot-5, 220 pounds and ran a 4.40 in the 40-yard dash at the combine.

“Streeter, though, could be tough to get rid of because of his combination of size and speed,” wrote Zenitz. “[He] has big upside as both a deep threat and a weapon inside the red zone.”

C. Williams Losing Ground, Has A Weakness To Correct

Cornerback Cary Williams is losing ground to second-year player Jimmy Smith in the battle for starting cornerback, says Hensley.

Despite not playing in the Ravens preseason game (back), Smith may have helped his chances because Williams struggled to cover Falcons receiver Julio Jones. Williams gave up five passes for 79 yards and a touchdown in the first quarter.

“The numbers are worse than the effort,” wrote Hensley. “On the first catch allowed, Williams tried to jam Julio Jones, who was able to get inside position for a 26-yard gain on a slant. The next two passes were completions to Jones when Williams played seven to eight yards off the line.”

The five year veteran’s weakness, according to Hensley, is that he plays the receiver rather than the ball. There were two plays in which Williams ran stride for stride with the receiver and was in good position, but just needed to turn to deflect the pass.

“When the regular season begins next month, Williams could look back at this game as a missed opportunity,” wrote Hensley. “The Ravens need to give Smith, a first-round pick from a year ago, a hard look with the first-team defense over the next three preseason games.”

Reed Sneaks Into Offensive Huddle

A playful Ed Reed was on display during Monday’s practice.

The veteran safety snuck into the offensive huddle as quarterback Joe Flacco was calling a play during 11-on-11 drills.

He found a nice little hiding place, standing next to the gigantic Bryant McKinnie (6-foot-8, 360 pounds).

“Reed blended in nicely. However, he was eventually noticed, prompting him to jog away,” wrote The Baltimore Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec.

Reed’s shenanigans come just a few days after the Ravens announced he wouldn’t play in the preseason opener, but the All-Pro ended up out there anyway because he didn’t have anything else to do and he needed to break in his jersey.

Which Defender Should Play On Offense?

With the New York Jets allowing cornerback Antonio Cromartie get some action at receiver, CSNBaltimore.com’s Ray Frager wonders which Ravens defender fans would like to see play some offense.

He throws out a few ideas:

Reed = a pass-catching running back
Ngata = fullback
Terrence Cody = guard
Lardarius Webb = wideout
Ray Lewis = tight end

Quick Hits

• This has got to be the first time Ma’ake Kemoeatu (6-foot-5, 345 pounds) was called a mini anything … mzenitz: P. McPhee on Kemoeatu: “Dude’s a beast. He’s a mini Haloti Ngata.” [Twitter]
• Oh perfect, just when he is switched back to left guard in practice yesterday … mzenitz: [Kelechi] Osemele on position he’s most comfortable at: “I feel like I’m actually more comfortable at tackle in general. … But, I’ve been hearing from a lot people that my frame would work really well at guard.” [Twitter]
• Marshal Yanda brought in a T-shirt with a saying that players are embracing … KOsevendeuce: Just posted a photo [Twitter]
• Haloti Ngata feels much more comfortable with his added weight. He’s gone from 335 at the end of the season to 342 now. Not only does he feel stronger with opponents double-teaming him, but he doesn’t feel like his conditioning is any worse. He says he is breathing just fine in camp. Listen to more of his explanation. [CSNBaltimore.com]

A little over three weeks removed from shedding the protective boot, linebacker Terrell Suggs says he is taking “giant” steps forward in the rehab process of his Achilles tendon injury.

Suggs says he no longer feels discomfort and is enjoying some of the normal movements he can make again.

“I feel great. I’m going up and down stairs. I’m going through rehabbing as we speak,” Suggs told WBAL’s Brett Hollander. “I feel very optimistic about my time and when I told y’all I was going to come back.”

Wait. Is he speaking of the timetable he originally gave when first injured: end of October, November by the latest? Because he has since backed off that timetable and more generically said he will return this season – no specific date.

Anyway … as the team kicks off the week with its grueling training camp practices, Suggs will endure his own intense training camp rehab schedule.

He jokingly insinuated that he will be working even harder than his teammates.

“I’m probably going to be in three-a-days while the guys are in two-a-days,” Suggs said. Of course the new CBA prohibits two-a-day padded practices. So that second practice will be a nice walkthrough.

The 10-year veteran will attend every meeting so he doesn’t “miss a beat” when he returns. Plus, the always-entertaining linebacker won’t let his teammates forget his voice and influence.

“I’m definitely going to be out there in the hot sun with the guys just because that’s where you build your team, in [those] trenches,” he said. “Right there preparing and working and trying to win the championship and there’s where it’s won.

“You don’t win the game on Sunday; you win it in your preparation. That’s everything you do leading up to [it]. Sunday is just the icing on the cake, to fine tune it. That’s where you get to have all of the fun of your hard work.”

Reed’s Contract Year = Big-Time Production

With Ed Reed (and his amazing ripped abs) practicing at the Under Armour Performance Center in Owings Mills last Thursday, concerns have died down some about his status for training camp and the season.

Not only does Jamison Hensley believe Reed will play in 2012, but the ESPN blogger believes the future Hall of Famer is primed for big things in a bounce-back year.

“He is in a contract year, which usually brings out the best in players,” Hensley wrote. “Reed will have something to prove, which is strange to say about an eight-time All-Pro.”

When judging his 2011 season purely by normal “Reed standards,” the safety did have a dip in production. He notched three interceptions, which was his fewest in a 16-game season. Plus Reed admitted to missing some tackles with a shoulder injury.

But Hensley predicts that Reed will be the sixth-best player in the AFC North next season because, well, he has to, as he enters the final year of his contract.

“Reed has made it clear this offseason that he wants more money,” Hensley wrote. “He won’t get it this year from the Ravens, but he could boost his price tag with a more typical Reed-like season.”

The Ravens reportedly offered Reed a new contract two days before last year’s season-opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers. ESPN’s Chris Mortensen believes the Ravens will offer another deal at the end of this season, but won’t prohibit Reed from hitting free agency by applying the franchise tag to him.

What will Reed find if he tests the market? A number of interested teams, says CBSSports.com’s Jason La Canfora.

“There will certainly be a market for Ed Reed if he’s healthy and anything like the Ed Reed we’ve seen through his career,” La Canfora told 105.7 The Fan Friday.

Williams Is Baaaack

It’s one of the most-anticipated battles in training camp – the starting cornerback position opposite Lardarius Webb.

And now one of the main contenders can finally compete.

Cary Williams, 27, had a procedure on his hip in February after sustaining an injury in Week 10 vs. the Seattle Seahawks. He played through it for the rest of the season, starting all 18 games.

He reported to camp yesterday, as can be seen in the video to the right, and he says he’s ready to jump right into practice.

“I plan on just going right out there with the guys,” Williams told reporters at a benefit for the Special Olympics of Maryland Saturday night, per The Baltimore Sun. “I don’t expect to take any days off unless they tell me that’s what I need to do. As far as I’m concerned, I’m full go.”

Kicker Tucker Ready For Faceoff

Rookie free agent kicker Justin Tucker is ready to face off with veteran Billy Cundiff and try to win his first job in the NFL.

Tucker has been working out, kicking, lifting weights and running in his home state of Texas, preparing for his shot to unseat Cundiff, who misfired on a potential game-tying field goal in the Ravens’ AFC championship loss last season.

But the Longhorn is trying not to look at it in those terms.

“I don’t look at it so much like I’m competing with Billy as much as I’m competing with myself to be at my best,” Tucker told the Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson. “I look forward to it, competing with a guy who’s had success. You’ve got to be mentally strong. You have to be ready to perform in any situation.”

He added, “I know he’s a good kicker, and he’s certainly done some good things. I’m going to do my thing and make the most of the opportunity. I feel like my strength is clutch kicking. You have to want to be in that position where the game’s on the line.”

Ravengers

I’m not a comic book aficionado, but I thought this was pretty cool.

Receiver Torrey Smith re-tweeted a comic book superhero T-shirt of himself, which was created by Ravengers.com, a spinoff of the Marvel Comics superhero team, The Avengers.

“I need some!!” Smith wrote.

I checked out the website and got a big grin on my face when I saw the awesome superhero sketch for Suggs. I love his tiny purple-screaming head popping out of his massive muscle-bulging body. If I were to spend the 25 bucks it takes to purchase a T-shirt that would be my selection.

The story behind the Ravengers, per the website: “The road ahead is long and paved with the blood, sweat and tears of the fallen. The Gridiron of Charm City is where it begins. There will be danger, there will be struggle… and those less worthy will fall by the wayside. Our Gridiron Warriors are this city’s only hope. They stand and fight tirelessly week after week until only one force remains – THE RAVENGERS”

Great work, guys. Ravens fans are so creative, and it’s always fun to see what they come up with next.

Quick Hits

• @334Upshaw41: Back in Baltimore to put in this work #RavenNation [Twitter]
• @_KIDRaven_ [Ravens' 5th-rounder Asa Jackson]: Today… I start the biggest challenge of my life. But I wouldn’t have it any other way [Twitter]
• @TeamSizzleFilms: I’ve had a great weekend! Met a lot of fans and just hung out in Baltimore! What did YOU do? [Twitter]
• @TwentyER: Bless you bro. … This was Ed Reed’s tweet to @AdamFluharty3, who is currently serving in Afghanistan and posted this awesome picture. [Twitter]
• “Be worried about seeing replacement officials in August, and quite possibly September,” wrote Peter King. “I’m hearing the talks are not going well.” [SI.com]
• In their preseason power rankings, the peeps at ProFootballTalk listed the Ravens at No. 5 because of their “talented roster, from top to bottom.” [PFT.com]

Ron Jaworski’s ranking of Joe Flacco as the ninth-best (and strongest-armed) quarterback in the league stirred up reaction from both fans and the media.

One argument that’s gained traction once again is who’s better between Flacco, the 18th-overall pick in the 2008 draft, or Ryan, the third-overall pick.

Flacco was ninth on Jaworski’s list while Ryan was 11th.

NFL.com’s Bucky Brooks put together a detailed comparison of the two quarterbacks. Here’s what he came up with:

Flacco wins on arm talent: “Flacco is a gifted passer with extraordinary physical tools. He boasts one of the strongest arms in the NFL, routinely delivering balls with exceptional zip and velocity. Combine this with pinpoint accuracy, and Flacco is able to fit balls into tight windows between multiple defenders.”

Flacco also wins on athleticism: “Flacco is an underrated athlete with uncommon movement skills for a big man (6-foot-6, 245 pounds).”

Ryan won in game management: “Flacco is an efficient game manager in his own right. He routinely avoids the big mistake in the pocket and his ability to keep the Ravens offense on schedule allows them to take advantage of scoring opportunities created by an aggressive defense.”

They tied on leadership: “Flacco’s leadership role is overshadowed by the presence of the Ravens’ veteran defensive core of Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Terrell Suggs. However, he has started to assert himself over the past few seasons and the offense has responded favorably to his leadership style.”

Ryan won in the clutch factor: “Flacco has been solid in the clutch, as well. He has directed 11 game-winning drives in four seasons, including six fourth-quarter comebacks, showing tremendous growth as a clutch player.”

Overall, Brooks said he’d take Ryan over Flacco, but said the debate is “as close as you will find in pro football.”

“Both players have won at a high level as young quarterbacks, and their consistent play has helped their respective franchises contend on an annual basis,” Brooks said. “I would rather have Ryan as my quarterback due to his ability to run the offense from the line of scrimmage and his history of engineering fourth-quarter comebacks. While I certainly recognize his playoff failures, I believe he is the more consistent playmaker and game manager, which gives him the nod in my mind.”

What do you think?

Also, Gregg Rosenthal waded into the strongest arm debate. He said putting Flacco as the strongest-arm quarterback is a “bold statement and one that is backed up by a ton of research.” Rosenthal has Flacco, Matthew Stafford, Michael Vick, Jay Cutler and Cam Newton on his list of top-five arms.

Best Ravens Training Camp Battle

Over the past week or so, Garrett and I have been running through all the competitions set to take place during training camp.

So which is the best?

ESPN blogger Jamison Hensley points to the one at cornerback between Jimmy Smith and Cary Williams for the No. 2 cornerback position.

Smith is the Ravens’ 2011 first-round pick who began his rookie campaign by injuring his ankle on the opening kickoff. That gave Williams, who was already slated to be the starter, the avenue to blossom and he never relinquished his spot. Williams was the team’s third-leading tackler (77) and second in passes broken up (18).

“Now, the roles are reversed,” Hensley wrote. “Williams couldn’t participate in team drills this spring after having hip surgery, which provided the opening for Smith to work with the starting defense all offseason.”

Smith came back to play in 12 games and start three last season. He notched three interceptions (including one in the AFC championship) while Williams didn’t snag one.

So what’s Hensley’s prediction?

“It looks like this is Smith’s job to lose in training camp,” he said. “The 2011 first-round pick has prototypical size and speed to be a shutdown cornerback in this league. Williams, though, has surprised before.”

Which AFC North Team Ain’t Making The Playoffs?

The AFC North had three playoff teams last season, a rare feat.

But one of them is likely not to make it this year. Who will it be?

Dating back to 1996, at least five teams have qualified for the playoffs that missed the postseason before. That means five teams that were in the year before were out the next.

Fans voted, and they don’t think the Ravens will suffer that fate.

Instead, the Bengals take the cake with 53 percent while the Ravens and Steelers are almost in a dead heat with 24 and 23 percent of the votes, respectively.

The Bengals haven’t put together back-to-back winning seasons since 1981-82. The Ravens have made it four years straight, the only team in the NFL to do so.

ESPN pundits Damien Woody and Marcellus Wiley agree with the fans. Hensley says he likes the Bengals’ chances of returning, but didn’t specify if he thought the Ravens or Steelers would be out.

No Leader In Running Back Competition

Speaking of good position battles, the one for the No. 2 running back spot is also a dandy.

There’s rookie third-round pick Bernard Pierce vs. Anthony Allen vs. Damien Berry.

And after Organized Team Activities and minicamp, there isn’t a clear leader yet, says the Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson.

“Although all had their moments during spring minicamps and organized team activities and Allen took the greater portion of the workload with the first-team offense in Rice’s absence, no one has separated himself from the pack yet,” he wrote.

This competition will heat up in training camp once the pads are on and hitting begins.

No Love For Ravens-Steelers?

When NFL.com put out a list of 2012 games that should be considered a national holiday (in observance of the 4th of July), I was just scrolling waiting to see Ravens-Steelers.

Wait a second…

Tom Brady’s Patriots versus Peyton Manning’s Broncos on Oct. 7 got three of seven votes, and there wasn’t a single one for the Ravens-Steelers, who play on Nov. 18 and Dec. 2.

Do we have to drum up the best rivalry in the NFL debate again?

Quick Hits

• Bryant McKinnie is apparently continuing his workouts during the time off before training camp. BryantMckinnie: Just finished a good workout, & it hot as hell outside [Twitter]
• Ravens: Show your #Ravens pride by designing our team flag & you could WIN a trip to 2012 #NFL Kickoff! Fan Flag Challenge [Twitter]
• RT @TonyVillani: Now [former NFL receiver] Cris Carter spending time with @Ant_Allen working on routes. [Twitter]
• Yes, the use of fireworks is illegal in Maryland unless you have a permit. Bummer. BryanHall68: So… I can’t pop no fireworks in Maryland? Smh… [Twitter]
• Looks like Courtney Upshaw is meeting some fiiiiiiine Americans during his time off back home in Alabama. 334Upshaw41: Check out the ride yo lmao[Twitter]
• Torrey Smith ran into his advertisement. TorreySmithWR: Prince is famous….#pitbull love [Twitter]
• I really hope I see Kelechi Osemele on MTV. KOsevenDeuce: Getting ready to shoot the music video w/ @Chiefdoodle [Twitter]
• Crushboy31 [Bernard Pollard]: Just arrived at Towson University for the Youth football camp, and they are wearing equipment… Head knocking!!! Good ole memories… [Twitter]
• Anquan Boldin is busy with the Q81 Summer Enrichment Program. AnquanBoldin: In #Pahokee to speak w/ Everglade Prep. Let’s encourage our high school seniors to get those college submissions in! [Twitter]
• Check out this video shout out from Kabul, Afghanistan on this 4th of July holiday. [Defensive Video & Imagery Distribution System] 

Two wide receivers stood out to media during yesterday’s OTA practice, but for different reasons.

Second-year receiver LaQuan Williams, who believes he is still fighting for a roster spot after becoming the Ravens’ Cinderella story last year, reportedly had one of the highlights of the day with a beautiful catch on a fade in the corner of the end zone and a one-handed snag on a laser over the middle.

The former undrafted free agent was even making plays against Lardarius Webb, beating the Ravens top corner along the sidelines on more than one occasion, according to The Baltimore Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec.

“Williams looks to be in great shape,” he wrote.

Meanwhile, new addition Jacoby Jones appeared to have trouble holding onto passes, as he reportedly dropped a “handful,” says Zrebiec.

His performance prompted a few tweets from various spectators.

“LaQuan Williams has amazing hands,” wrote WBAL’s Gerry Sandusky. “Jacoby Jones still has consistency issues catching.”

“Jacoby Jones had a rough day as far as catching the football,” added RavensInsider Aaron Wilson. “In contrast, LaQuan Williams looked very sharp.”

For Ravens fans, Jones’ consistency issues with holding onto the football stem back to the AFC divisional playoff game against Houston when he fumbled twice – but not on receptions, on punts.  One of his muffed punts led to a Baltimore touchdown.

Having said all that, Jones did leave several positive impressions too.

He used his quick first step to get open and snag a touchdown in 11-on-11 drills. His speed and work ethic are big pluses in the eyes of Special Teams Coordinator Jerry Rosburg, who is evaluating Jones as a returner (which Ryan Mink will get more into later today).

Leach Ranked 45th Best Player In NFL

Ravens fullback Vonta Leach was ranked as the 45th best player on the NFL Network’s Top 100 Players of 2012, a list determined by the players themselves.

“I’m humbled to be on the list with a league full of great players no matter where I was ranked,” Leach tweeted after his ranking was revealed last night.

The nine-year veteran has a throw-back style that isn’t easily found in the NFL these days.

“He reminds me of the Lorenzo Neals of the day, those 1990s/80s fullbacks that were just big, raw, mauler-type guys that have no neck, just head and shoulders,” said Saints linebacker Jonathan Vilma of Leach. “They are going one way.”

Leach was brought to the Ravens in 2011, making running back Ray Rice a very happy man. But as can be seen in the network’s video package of Leach, it took some time for Rice to adjust and learn how to follow his Pro Bowl fullback.

Ray Lewis found Rice on the sidelines during the season-finale in Cincinnati, encouraging him to trust and follow Leach.

“We’re too great. Forty-four is your Pro Bowl fullback. That’s your glory,” Lewis told Rice. “Follow him. Make somebody come through him, baby boy, to get you. Don’t do it by yourself.”

Rice got the message, churning out 1,364 rushing yards in 16 games, good for the second most in the league last season.

Flacco is the only other Raven to make the list so far, coming in at No. 74.

Lighter Attendance In Week 2 Of OTAs

Various reports indicated the attendance in Week 2 of Ravens organized team activities (OTAs) was lighter than Week 1.

While veteran center Matt Birk returned after missing last week, several other veterans that were present last week weren’t in attendance yesterday, including Jimmy Smith, Marshal Yanda, Pernell McPhee, Bernard Pollard and Leach.

A total of 20 were reportedly missing for various reasons.

There were also many starters who did participate including Joe Flacco, Torrey Smith, Jameel McClain, Sam Koch, Billy Cundiff, Lardarius Webb, Terrence Cody, Michael Oher, Ed Dickson, Art Jones, Courtney Upshaw and Paul Kruger.

Williams Hopeful For Long-Term Deal

Cornerback Cary Williams, who is aiming to return to individual drills June 12 after undergoing offseason hip surgery, has been attending OTAs despite his inability to fully participate and a murky contract situation.

Williams signed a one-year tender in early May, but is still optimistic that he can sign a long-term contract extension with the team.

“It’s the money business. I don’t worry about it,” Williams told The Baltimore Sun. “I let my agent take care of that, whether there are discussions or not, and I take care of what I can control and that’s me getting back from rehab and playing at an exceptional level. … I would love to be in Baltimore. I would love to end my career here. I would love to have a long-term deal. But you just never know what direction the organization wants to go. And at the end of the day, we’re not settling either.”

Williams started every game last season, notching 78 tackles, 18 pass breakups and two forced fumbles. He is competing with second-year corner Jimmy Smith to keep his starting role.

How To Make The Pro Bowl Exciting

After giving serious consideration to canceling the Pro Bowl, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell agreed with the NFL Players Association to hold the All-Star game in Honolulu on Jan. 27.

The agreement came only after the commissioner received a promise from players that they will make the game more competitive. Fans and some players, like Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, were disappointed with the uninspired play after last season’s 59-41 AFC victory.

“The players have made it clear through the NFL Players Association that they would like the opportunity to continue to play the Pro Bowl in Hawaii,” NFL Executive Vice President Ray Anderson said. “We look forward to working with the players toward the goal of improving the competitiveness of this season’s game.”

Exactly how the players will make the game more exciting is unknown, but Sandusky has a pretty good suggestion.

“If the NFL really wants to make the Pro Bowl competitive then they should put up a pot of money and make it winner take all,” he tweeted.

Quick Hits

• GerrySandusky: I can’t wait to see rookie RB Bernard Pierce in pads. The battle for backup QB could get interesting. Rookie S Christian Thompson makes plays. [Twitter]
• RavensInsider: Tough day for Ramon Harewood as far as holding penalties, acknowledged he’s knocking off a lot of rust. [Twitter]
• OJBrigance: When you think about it, what other choice is there but to hope? We have 2 options: medically & emotionally: give up, or fight like hell. [Twitter]
• Ravens seventh-round pick DeAngelo Tyson was selected as the team’s “rookie long shot,” a low draft pick or undrafted free agent who could make the roster and contribute. “The Ravens’ defensive-line depth took a hit with the departure of Cory Redding in free agency,” Pro Football Weekly wrote. “Veteran Ryan McBean, whom Baltimore signed in May, will miss the first three games because of an NFL suspension. A team captain at Georgia, the tough and hardworking Tyson would not be the most unlikely seventh-rounder to make a roster out of camp. The Ravens did not draft another defensive lineman.” [Pro Football Weekly]

The Ravens have a handful of players working their way back from season-ending injuries and offseason procedures, and here is a look at the most recent injury updates:

WR/KR David Reed (knee surgery): Reed had knee surgery following a torn ACL on Dec. 24 that forced him to finish the season on injured reserve. He has been one of the most consistent faces in the building during the offseason, making sure that the injury gets proper treatment during rehab.

He said that he is ahead of schedule with the recovery process and hopes to be completely healthy by training camp in late July. He did not participate in contact drills during OTAs this week.

CB Cary Williams (hip surgery): The fifth-year cornerback had surgery in February to repair a torn labrum and has been rehabbing throughout the offseason. He has participated in the team’s voluntary conditioning program since signing his second-round tender earlier this month.

Williams suffered the injury in the game against Seattle on Nov. 13, but he played the remainder of the season and started every game. He described his health as at about 80 percent in early May, and expects to be fully recovered by the time training camp starts. Williams also was not on the field during OTAs.

OLB Terrell Suggs (Achilles tendon surgery): The reigning Defensive Player of the Year suffered an Achilles tendon injury while working out this offseason, and he underwent surgery on May 8 to repair the tear. Suggs described the injury as a partial tear and still hopes to make a return by November.

The Ravens have not provided an exact timetable for Suggs’ return, but Head Coach John Harbaugh said Wednesday that right now Suggs is simply allowing the surgery scar to heal and will likely begin rehabbing next month.

“The rehab doesn’t start until all that healing takes place,” Harbaugh said. “He is going to have a doctor’s appointment the first week of the minicamp. Then, he is going to come up here, and then we’ll start to rehab at that point.”

DT Haloti Ngata (thigh): The Pro Bowl defensive lineman was beat up by the end of last season and had a procedure after the season to repair an injury. The exact injury or procedure has not been reported, but Ngata said that he now feels “really good” after taking time off to rest and recover.

WR Torrey Smith (sports hernia): Smith had surgery after the season to repair a hernia injury that he played through for most of last season. He said last month that he is fully recovered from the injury and is expecting to have a big season in his sophomore campaign.

He was a full participant in OTAs and did not look hindered at all.

But the battles for positions don’t have to wait until camp.

Rookies and veterans are fighting for roster spots and starting jobs right now, and many of those competitions will continue up until the start of the season.

Here are some of the key positions battles to watch throughout the remainder of the offseason:

Outside Linebacker: Both outside linebacker positions will be up for grabs in training camp this year, as Jarret Johnson left in free agency and Terrell Suggs is out for an unspecified amount of time with an Achilles tendon injury.

The likely candidates for the starting jobs are Paul Kruger, Sergio Kindle, Albert McClellan and rookie Courtney Upshaw.

Kruger has the most experience at outside linebacker of anyone in the group, as he has spent much of his three years in the league as a pass-rush specialist.

Kindle is heading into his third season and still has to prove himself after a head injury set him back during his rookie season. He has potential, but hasn’t had much of an opportunity to show it early in his career.

McClellan spent most of last season as an inside linebacker, even starting in place of Ray Lewis when Lewis was down with a toe injury. He is a versatile player and could make the switch outside.

Upshaw played the rush linebacker position in college, which is similar to the role that Suggs plays. Moving into that position while Suggs is out could be a natural transition for the Ravens’ second-round pick.

Left Guard: This battle will likely come down to three of the Ravens’ youngest lineman: second-year lineman Jah Reid and rookies Kelechi Osemele and Gino Gradkowski.

Reid came into the NFL as a right tackle, but has made the position switch this offseason and was the favorite to win the job before Baltimore drafted Osemele and Gradkowski.

Osemele played  left tackle in college, but is comfortable moving over to guard. He performed well at rookie minicamp last week, as he was one of the biggest players out on the field. Gradkowski played center and guard at college, but he doesn’t have the size of Reid or Osemele, which could make it tough for him to beat them out for the spot.

Wide Receiver: The first two receiver spots appear firmly in the grasp of Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith, but after that there are five players vying for the third and fourth receiver jobs.

Free-agent acquisition Jacoby Jones, Tandon Doss, LaQuan Williams, David Reed and rookie Tommy Streeter are all competing for time. Jones is the likely favorite for the No. 3 job, but a strong camp from the other candidates could make this one of the most tightly contested positions battles of the offseason.

Cornerback: This is one of the deepest positions for the Ravens, as former first-round pick Jimmy Smith and last year’s starter Cary Williams will compete for the No. 2 spot next to Lardarius Webb.

Williams played well last year season in his first season as a starter, but Smith showed glimpses of his potential in the chances that he got after an early-season injury.

Regardless of who wins the job, all three players will get plenty of time on the field, as the Ravens often use three corners to offset pass-heavy formations that more teams are using.

Running Back: Ray Rice has the starting running back position locked up, but behind him is a different story. After Ricky Williams suddenly retired this offseason, the No. 2 running back spot will be a battle between second-year backs Anthony Allen and Damien Berry and rookie Bernard Pierce.

All three backs bring different running styles to the mix, as Allen is a power runner, Berry is more a speed back and Pierce has a slashing style. None of the three appears to have a leg up in the race right now.

Williams signed his $1.972 million second-round tender this afternoon, taking the Ravens’ final restricted free agent off the market.

The fifth-year cornerback had hip surgery to repair a torn labrum on Feb. 15, and has been rehabbing and waiting to see what happened with contract negotiations before returning.

He said there hasn’t been talk of a long-term contract extension since the draft.

“Hopefully we’ll get back to the table,” Williams said. “But right now I just want to rehab and make sure my hip is right and that I can play at a high level. Contract talks can go from there. I just want to make sure that I can play for the Ravens this season.”

Williams became a first-time starter last year, lining up opposite Lardarius Webb for all 16 games. He notched 78 tackles, 18 pass deflections and two forced fumbles.

He was playing the final seven weeks of the regular season and playoffs in pain.

Williams hurt himself during the Seattle Seahawks game on Nov. 13. He thought it might go away, but the problem persisted and would shoot pain down his right leg when he opened his hips inside.

Williams has his range of motion back now and says he’s at about 80 percent. He is hoping to be back on the field in time for the Ravens’ minicamp starting June 11, but expects to definitely be fully healthy in time for training camp.

“That’s already set in stone,” Williams said. “I’m eager to get out there and run with the guys. My body is saying, ‘Yeah, it’s that time.’ But I just can’t. I’m just trying to stay within the limits and take it slow.”

Williams will compete with second-year cornerback Jimmy Smith to keep his starting spot. Smith earned more playing time as the season went on last year, and notched two interceptions in the regular season and another in the playoffs.

“I welcome competition. I’ve competed all my life,” Williams said.

“I think all the guys are excited about the opportunity. We understand what we had last year and this year we’re going to be tested with the schedule. We’re all happy about the situation. It doesn’t matter who’s out there or who the three may be or whatever order you’re in. Regardless, we’re three of the top corners in the league and we’re going to be a force for a lot of people out there on Sundays.”

Ozzie Newsome said he has been trying to find an heir to future Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis for six years.

Luckily the seemingly immortal Lewis continues to defy odds, buying Ravens brass time to find the right player for the right price.

Could Dont’a Hightower be the right player? Could Thursday night be the right time? And could a rookie salary be the right price?

That’s the growing consensus.

Listen to Peter King, one of the first to propose that the Ravens trade up to snatch Hightower if the Alabama linebacker is still on the board in the low 20s, in the video below.

The long-time SI scribe provides compelling reasons to make a bold move, saying Hightower is not only a playmaker, but an incredible leader the Ravens defense will need.

“While nobody will ever replace the ability and the fire of Ray Lewis, I think they could have in mind this year a guy late in the first round … who could be the long-term replacement that they’ve been looking for Ray Lewis, for a long time. That player is Alabama linebacker Dont’a Hightower.

“Hightower is a guy who, and Ozzie Newsome the general manager knows this because he’s an Alabama guy and he has great connections there, he knows what an incredible leader Hightower is. He’s been a two-year captain. When [Head Coach] Nick Saban has a captain for two years, that guy’s a leader. He’s also been a great playmaker for the Crimson Tide.”

The 6-foot- 2, 265-pound linebacker is explosive and versatile.

He played at both inside linebacker positions at Alabama, he can rush the passer and he can drop back in coverage. He’s passionate and smart, leading the Crimson Tide defense on the team’s way to a national title last year.

In a letter to the “Wizard of Oz” himself, The Baltimore Sun’s Kevin Cowherd implored Newsome to make a move for Hightower.

“How long have we been talking about finding his heir apparent? At least six or seven years, right,” Cowherd asked. “But now you’ve got a shot at this kid Dont’a Hightower, the big, high-impact linebacker from Alabama. And, yes, it might take some maneuvering to land him …

“But you should go after him, Ozzie. Go after him hard. Don’t let this kid get away.”

While the Ravens may have more immediate needs that they could address with the first-round selection, especially on the interior offensive line or by adding another speedy receiver, picking Hightower now could be the best long-term choice.

Allowing Lewis to mentor his successor while he is still playing could be an invaluable experience.

“Let Hightower learn at the feet of the master. Let him pick Ray’s brain about playing inside linebacker in the NFL throughout the OTAs and training camp and the long, grueling season,” wrote Cowherd. “Let him see up-close and personal what it takes to play the position for so many years at such an incredibly skilled level.

“And maybe if he works hard and you get lucky — really lucky — Hightower someday turns into the next great middle linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens. Wouldn’t that be something to see?”

Falcons Decline Hard Knocks, Leaving Door Open For Ravens

The Atlanta Falcons declined an invitation to appear on the HBO reality television show “Hard Knocks,” according to ESPN.

A league source told the news outlet that HBO is looking into the Ravens and San Francisco 49ers as options for a two-team documentary featuring the Harbaugh brothers.

The New York Jets and Jacksonville Jaguars are two other options, as they have both shown previous interest.

When rumors first surfaced about the Ravens possibly being on the show for the second time in franchise history (they were the first to ever be filmed in 2001 following their Super Bowl victory), AFC North blogger Jamison Hensley expressed doubt that Head Coach John Harbaugh would want to open his practice doors to cameras.

“I would be shocked if the Ravens agreed to be on the show,” he wrote. “When the Ravens were on ‘Hard Knocks’ 11 years ago, their head coach was Brian Billick, who never minded the media attention and actually seemed to enjoy it.

“The same can’t be said for John Harbaugh, who seems uncomfortable when the local media shoot parts of the open media viewing of practice. That’s why I can’t see Harbaugh signing off on cameras in meeting rooms and having it broadcast on national TV.”

Williams Not Going Anywhere

Friday’s deadline on restricted free agency has passed.

No teams tried to make a move for cornerback Cary Williams, who was given a second-round tender by the Ravens and is the only restricted free agent left to sign his contract.

As such, the Baltimore Sun boasted this headline Friday: “It looks like Ravens’ Cary Williams isn’t going anywhere.”

Wrote Matt Vensel: “It is pretty much a formality that cornerback Cary Williams … will be back in Baltimore this season even though he has yet to sign his one-year restricted tender and technically isn’t under contract.

“Williams presumably hasn’t signed his tender because he and the Ravens are in advanced talks on a contract extension, which is something team officials recently said was a priority this offseason.”

Once Williams, who is rehabbing after offseason hip surgery, does sign, he will be the final piece that completes a formidable long-term trio of corners with Lardarius Webb and Jimmy Smith.

In Webb’s eyes, the three corners combined with safeties Bernard Pollard and Ed Reed make up the best defensive backs corps in the NFL.

Billick: Ravens Are Not Old

It’s almost become cliché as you read draft reports: The Baltimore Ravens need to replenish their “aging” defense.

But that perception mainly exists because Lewis and Reed, two long-time franchise faces, are still playing in their twilight years.

Their presence has masked what Newsome has done to keep the team youthful on both the offensive and defensive sides.

“Some have categorized the Ravens as getting old, but that stems from the questions of how long Ray Lewis and Ed Reed will continue to play,” wrote former Ravens head coach Brian Billick. “General manager Ozzie Newsome has systematically infused younger talent on this team, which should sustain them for a while.

“The Ravens franchised Ray Rice and are trying to tie up quarterback Joe Flacco long term. They will be the faces and cornerstones of the Ravens when Lewis and Reed decide to call it quits.”

Quick Hits

• “I think the Ravens need to think of a wide receiver early because Anquan Boldin might be in his final season with the team. But the Ravens could be thinking of taking one later,” wrote Hensley. [ESPN]
• Ray Lewis will no longer be called to testify in the ongoing trial of former Bengals linebacker Nate Webster. Lewis had been subpoenaed as a defense witness early last week, but it was unclear why. [The Cincinnati Enquirer].
• Is Boise State outside linebacker Shea McClellin, a rising draft prospect, on the Ravens’ radar for this first round? [The Carroll County Times]
• AdamSchefter: Steelers WR Mike Wallace told some within Steelers organization that he does not plan to sign his first-round tender “until he has to.” [Twitter]
• Steelers in a rebuilding year?  Billick thinks so: “Cap issues, injuries and being exposed in the playoffs as a team that can’t play man coverage are just a few of the difficulties facing the Steelers. The Steelers never say they are rebuilding, but reloading. This year could be the exception.” [FoxNews.com]
• Former Colts Vice Chairman Bill Polian names the teams he believes to be the best at drafting, putting the Ravens at the top. [ESPN]
• The NFL Network will air its Top 100 Players show Saturday, unveiling who is the best as voted on by the players. But you can voice your opinion on by casting your vote. [NFL.com]
• The Ravens are “on the clock.” What will they do with their 29th pick? [NFL.com]

Flacco reported for the voluntary workouts on Monday, but Rice and Williams, who is rehabilitating from offseason hip surgery, both opted not to attend and to instead work out on their own.

It is common for veterans and players engaged in contract negotiations to sit out of the voluntary offseason workouts, and General Manager Ozzie Newsome knows that’s part of the process. 

“We understand the nature of the business,” Newsome said. “Having been an ex-player, do they want to take an opportunity to risk an injury this time of the year? Because if it does [happen], it will affect the negotiations.”

All three players are unsigned after the 2012 season, but Newsome reiterated that the Ravens are continuing long-term negotiations with them and that they will be back in Baltimore this fall.

“We are in talks with all three,” Newsome said. “One thing that’s already been established is that all three will be on our team this year.”

The ongoing negotiations won’t have an impact on the Ravens’ draft strategy, Newsome said, because “we keep that separate and we try to bring in the best player.”

The Ravens have applied the $7.7 million franchise tag to Rice and placed a second-round tender on Williams. Flacco still has one year remaining on his five-year rookie contract.

Even though Rice has not yet returned to Baltimore to take part in the offseason conditioning program, he has emphasized that he will be in shape when he does arrive.

“Nobody ever has to worry about me being in shape,” Rice said earlier this month at the Nike uniform launch. “We had a whole lockout last year and I came back and had the best season of my life. We can talk about the offseason program, but we also know that the offseason program didn’t make me last year when we had a whole lockout.”

Rice has also been tweeting recently about his conditioning regimen, which he says sometimes includes two workouts a day.

The Ravens have until July 16 to work out a long-term deal with Rice and Williams, or they will have to play under the tenders.

As the Ravens continue to work on deals with all three players, Newsome’s message was to allow the process to play out over the next several weeks.

“We understand the give and take that goes [on] through the season, but I think they’ve got good representation and [Ravens chief negotiator] Pat [Moriarty] is one of the best in the business,” Newsome said. “Things will work themselves out.”