When trying to project the Ravens’ final 53-man roster, most fans could easily predict about 40 spots – give or take a few – because most players are obvious virtual locks.

But that leaves a lot of grey area for the remaining 13 or so.

CBSSports.com’s Jason Butt projected the entire 53-man roster, noting there’s still time for a few changes. Feel free to look at his complete roster, but I’ve pulled out six predictions about decisions coaches may not have even made themselves and it will be interesting to see if they hold true.

And for those of you trying to win the You Pick The Team presented by New Era contest – a trip to see the Ravens play the Chargers in San Diego on November 25^th – these predictions could either help or hurt you (I can’t say I agree 100 percent with them all, but they’re pretty good). So use your own judgment with these predictions, and take it easy on Butt if he steers you down the wrong road.

Prediction 1: The Ravens will keep three quarterbacks on the roster, adding veteran Curtis Painter.  “Coach John Harbaugh’s stated that Baltimore likes the idea of using Taylor more within the offense this year,” wrote Butt. “Taylor’s athletic and could be a wildcat quarterback this year. Plus, his arm strength and accuracy have improved. By keeping Painter, Baltimore would feel more comfortable about using Taylor more.”

Prediction 2: Neither Anthony Allen nor Damien Berry, the two early favorites to backup Ray Rice at the beginning of the offseason, will make the team. The two rookies, Bernard Pierce (No. 2) and Bobby Rainey (No. 3), are currently outperforming the more experienced backs, but that could change … “There’s still a lot of time for Allen and Berry to make a run,” wrote Butt. “There’s also a chance Baltimore seeks a veteran free agent if it feels none of the young running backs are ready to become Rice’s primary backup. If that’s the case, Rainey and Berry could wind up on the scout team and Allen could be looking for another team.”

Prediction 3: Baltimore keeps six receivers (you can guess the first three) with LaQuan Williams, Tandon Doss and rookie free agent Deonte Thompson getting the final three spots. That means sixth-round pick Tommy Streeter is out and David Reed is a possible IR candidate. “Streeter’s a project, a 6-5, 220-pound body with blazing, straight-ahead speed. Thompson’s more versatile, but had some issues dropping the ball in college,” wrote Butt. “Thompson’s outperformed him early but Baltimore doesn’t like to cut its draft picks.”

Prediction 4: Eight of the (likely) nine roster spots for the offensive line are a lock, but that final spot comes down to four players: Ramon Harwood, Tony Wragge, Justin Boren and Jack Cornell. Harewood gets it.  “Harewood, a sixth-round draft pick in 2010, has been banged up but appears the healthiest he’s been since coming to Baltimore,” says Butt. “He would also give the Ravens another body at tackle, with Osemele and Reid being swing guys.”

Prediction 5: Linebackers are the victim of keeping three quarterbacks. Danelle Ellerbe is in, but he could be pushed by Chavis Williams or Nigel Carr. “For now, Ellerbe remains in but needs to prove he belongs through the remainder of the preseason,” wrote Butt. “Williams could be a victim of Baltimore’s desire to keep three quarterbacks, and someone deep on the depth chart at another position would have to be released to make room.”

Prediction 6: Billy Cundiff is the kicker by default. “Cundiff gets the edge for now since there’s no indication what Harbaugh and his staff will do at kicker,” wrote Butt. “But it should be noted that Tucker has out-kicked Cundiff in practice. There’s still a lot of time before a final decision will be made but this battle could go down to the wire.”

Pees The Master Of Disguise?

Ravens Offensive Coordinator Cam Cameron revealed the toughest defensive coordinator he’s ever had to scheme against.

And he’s had to face this opponent every day in practice this offseason: Dean Pees.

“Dean, I’ve known about Dean, and known Dean for a long time. When he was in New England, I went against him several times. He’s the best I’ve gone against,” Cameron told reporters yesterday. “And the reason I tell you that is because you can’t decipher – or he’s very difficult to decipher – what they’re trying to do.”

With the Ravens’ top pass rusher Terrell Suggs sidelined for an indefinite amount of time this season, plus losing defensive end Cory Redding to free agency, Pees’ ability to camouflage his defense is exactly what the team needs right now.

“The Ravens defense might need to become the masters of disguise to manufacture a fierce pass rush this season,” wrote The Baltimore Sun’s Aaron Wilson. “Generating pressure through more elaborate blitz packages and overloads is likely to be a large part of the equation.

“For Pees … hiding his intentions is pivotal.”

Pees was more humble about his ability to fool an offense. He gave credit to smart coaches and quarterbacks around the league for their football smarts. He said the key to disguise is putting in a coverage that looks exactly like a blitz.

With younger, less-experienced players stepping up this year – Paul Kruger, Courtney Upshaw, Pernell McPhee, Arthur Jones and Terrence Cody – the Ravens will rely heavily upon their new defensive coordinator.

“Known for his cerebral approach, Pees has an instant recall of opponents’ tendencies gleaned from studying countless hours of game tape,” wrote Wilson. “The Ravens are counting on Pees’ football acumen.”

No-Huddle Is The Right Plan Of Attack

You saw it Thursday night against the Atlanta Falcons.

The Ravens are using more no-huddle offense, which quarterback Joe Flacco “loves.”

And while the Ravens offense didn’t perform it to the best of its ability in its debut, ESPN’s Jamison Hensley likes the team’s decision to use it more often.

“The increased use of the no-huddle offense is the right plan of attack with Baltimore’s Joe Flacco,” he wrote.

“Flacco doesn’t gush often. So when he says he loves the no-huddle, this is significant. Flacco has a comfort level with the no-huddle and the shotgun because that’s what he ran for most of his time at Delaware.”

Hensley added that some of the fifth-year quarterback’s best moments last year came in the no-huddle, shotgun attack, including the winning drive at Pittsburgh and the almost-winning drive in the AFC championship.

“Despite Flacco’s support, I’m not sure how much more the Ravens will use the no-huddle attack this season,” the AFC North blogger wrote. “The Ravens used no huddle on 7 percent of their offensive plays, which already put them in the top half of the league.”

Highlights Of Harbs’ Fan Chat, Including Kicker Decision

In case you missed it, Coach Harbaugh chatted online with fans yesterday afternoon, answering questions for 30 minutes.

Here are some highlights (full transcript):

Lucas: What’s your opinion on the Cundiff and Tucker competition?

Harbs: It’s a good one. It’s a tight race. The great thing about it is that they’re both doing really well. I’m not concerned about it because they’re both doing well. They’re both going to be kicking for a team this year in the NFL. You let it play out and let the decision make itself.

Kelly rippeon: Do you think [Terrell] Suggs will play in the 2012-2013 football season?

Harbs: Yes, I do.

Jen: Coach is it concerning that you have to play the steelers twice in 3 weeks knowing its always a hard hitting game that takes alot out of the team?

Harbs: The Steelers have to play us twice in three weeks too, so I guess that evens it out.

Thomas: Coach have you ever seen Ray Lewis down or blue in the four years you have been with the Ravens? He always seems to talk and jump around on the sidelines.

Harbs: Never. Never seen Ray let disappointment or frustration get the best of him. When he does feel he’s being challenged he’ll get quiet. He’ll pray. That’s good advice for all of us.

Mohamed: Do you feel that Flacco has the potential to become within the top 3 quarterbacks this year?

Harbs: Absolutely.

Quick Hits

• “There apparently won’t be a Round 3 in the training-camp fight between wide receiver Antonio Brown and cornerback Ike Taylor,” wrote Hensley. “After their second skirmish of camp, Brown said he and Taylor went to breakfast on their day off and ‘ironed out our differences.’”[ESPN] 
• @jeffzrebiecsun: Torrey Smith was really slowed by sprained ankle [Monday] in practice so him not being out there [Tuesday] is no surprise. #Ravens [Twitter]
• @Ravens: Cam Cameron said that Michael Oher & Marshal Yanda graded at nearly 100 percent in last week’s game. [Twitter]
• @Ravens: Cam Cameron said they have not yet determined how long the starters will play on Friday. [Twitter]
• @mzenitz: According to Ed Lee at the Sun, Tucker now 82-of-87 during camp. Cundiff 74-of-89. [Twitter]
• Gross! … @TMO_90 [DE Terrence Moore]: I’ve worn the same shirt for the past four days and I.. don’t.. care…. #CampLife [Twitter]
• @AnquanBoldin: Congrats to my friend @LarryFitzgerald on winning the Arthur K. Arkush Humanitarian Award. Tremendous accomplishment. [Twitter]
• @Dgorrer36: Some of my teammates are “jerks” im not gone say no names @Crushboy31 [Twitter]
• @Crushboy31 [Bernard Pollard]: @Dgorrer36 lol how am I a “jerk” because I corrected you? You’re out! I hope you catch a full body cramp tonight while you sleeping… [Twitter]
• @Dgorrer36: @Crushboy31 the things u say sometimes just make me want to punch u n yo big lips….lol [Twitter]
• @Crushboy31: @Dgorrer36 lol!!! My lips are normal size. [Twitter]
• @brendon310: Never been scared of thunder b4. Until today!! Sleeping in the basement tonight [Twitter]
• @brendon310: Every one calling me a baby. You guys would be wearing diapers! Lol I been I’m hurricanes less violent than these storms tonight [Twitter]

He entered training camp as a little-known undrafted free agent out of Maryland who barely had a chance to show off in college due to injuries.

He seemed to have little to no chance of making the active roster.

But with standout practice after standout practice, Williams made himself impossible to cut, and was the only undrafted free agent last year to make the 53-man squad out of camp.

So what’s changed this year in Williams mind?

Nothing.

“I feel like I’m always in an uphill fight,” Williams said after Wednesday’s OTA practice. “I feel like I always have to prove myself because of the stigma I have.”

The stigma Williams feels he carried everywhere is being passed over by all 32 NFL teams for seven rounds. That’s something that, no matter what Williams does, can never be changed.

Williams beat out three other undrafted free agent wide receivers in training camp last year. He got a roster spot over established Ravens Justin Harper and Marcus Smith and veteran Brandon Jones.

“I had a chip on my shoulder. It was on me to come in and show these guys I could play ball,” Williams said. “I remember telling Torrey [Smith], that if I got an opportunity to do what I love, I’ll show them I belong.”

This year, Williams has just as much, if not more, competition. There are currently 13 wide receivers on the roster, and a team generally keeps five or six.

The Ravens drafted one wideout, Tommy Streeter, in the sixth round, signed another, Jacoby Jones, in free agency, and added three undrafted free agents.

“That stuff is out of my control,” Williams said. “I worry about what I can control, coming out and practice as hard as I can, studying, making sure I know what I’m doing. That’s all I’m focused on.”

Williams didn’t just make, and stay on, the active roster last year. He had an impact too, even on offense. While fellow rookie Tandon Doss didn’t record a catch, Williams snagged four balls for 46 yards, including two receptions in Pittsburgh.

This offseason, Williams said he feels much stronger both physically and mentally. He was a frequent target for quarterback Joe Flacco during Wednesday’s practice, and like last year, was impressive.

The 6-foot-0, 200-pound Williams has enough speed, plus great leaping ability to make plays down the field. He also helps his chances of making the active roster by focusing on special teams, which is why Baltimore originally signed him as an undrafted free agent.

“My main thing this year is, when I get the opportunity, don’t leave any big plays on the field,” Williams said. “I’ve got to make every big play I can. I want to be a guy that stands out on special teams and as a receiver.”

Below are just some of the most frequently asked inquiries, and some answers compiled from throughout the web.

How serious is Suggs’ injury?

It is unclear at this point, which is why the Ravens organization is waiting to comment on the situation. Suggs told The Baltimore Sun that he has already seen two doctors. One told him it was a partial tear and the other said it was a full tear. The final diagnosis will be a major factor in how quickly Suggs can return to NFL action. We should know more Tuesday, the day Suggs will reportedly meet with noted foot specialist Dr. Robert Anderson in North Carolina to have surgery and should find out the severity of the tear. “If the Terrell Suggs injury is as bad as feared, then it’s the worst injury the Ravens have suffered since Jamal Lewis the year after SB 35,” wrote WBAL’s Gerry Sandusky.

Is Suggs’ predicted return date realistic?

Again, that depends on the extent of the injury and Suggs’ ability to recover quickly. However, Suggs has told multiple media outlets that they shouldn’t count him out for the 2012 season. Instead he predicts a return in October, or November by the latest. “Team officials are hopeful Suggs could return within six months, which would appear to be slightly optimistic,” wrote The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec.

While the general length of time to full activity following a surgery like the one Suggs will have is four to six months, the average return to NFL action is 11 months, according to an American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons in 2006, per ESPN.

“In terms of full, aggressive play, it could be anywhere between three months and six months, depending on what was done,” Dr. Lew Schon, the chief of foot and ankle surgery at Union Memorial Hospital, told The Sun. “For someone like this [a high-level athlete], though, it’s probably going to be more like six months.”

Why does it matter if he was playing basketball or running a conditioning test when he suffered the injury?

Turns out, it may not matter at all. Much has been made about initial reports indicating that Suggs injured his Achilles while playing basketball, but the outside linebacker insists he sustained it while running a 40-yard cone shuffle. If Suggs suffered an injury during a non-football activity there could be contract ramifications.  But according to ProFootballTalk, either can be considered a non-football activity.

“It doesn’t matter whether Suggs was playing basketball or running or jogging or lifting weights.  Injuries sustained while a player works out on his own are ‘non-football injuries,’” wrote Mike Florio. “That said, the manner in which the injury was suffered could cause a team to decide to not pay a player, especially if the player’s team has made it known generally among the players that, if they get hurt playing basketball, they’re on their own. … It would be a major surprise if the Ravens try to stiff Suggs.”

Can the Ravens defense overcome his absence?

This is completely subjective, but if history is any indicator, the Ravens defense has shown it is capable of overcoming. ESPN’s Jamison Hensley argues that the defense can “absorb” the loss. “It’s very easy to tear up the playoff tickets right now or want to hand over the AFC North title to the Steelers. But losing Suggs doesn’t mean the Ravens should lose hope on the season,” wrote Hensley. “The Ravens, though, can overcome Suggs’ absence. Why? Because they’ve done this before.”

Safety Ed Reed spent the first six weeks on the PUP list after offseason hip surgery in 2010, but Baltimore still went 4-2 without him. Ray Lewis was sidelined for four games last season with a toe injury, and the Ravens went 4-0. “Baltimore is a stronger and more fearsome defense with Suggs chasing down quarterbacks. But the Ravens defense won’t flinch without him,” Hensley concluded.

How can Dean Pees make up for the loss of Suggs in his defensive schemes?

Hensley believes Defensive Coordinator Dean Pees may want to consider blitzing more with his top pass rusher down, even though Baltimore was ranked ninth in the number of times they blitzed last season. On non-blitzing plays (sending four or fewer players), Suggs was the defense’s best pass rusher, recording 12 of his 14 sacks in that defensive formation. “What these numbers say is Suggs generated his own pass rush,” wrote Hensley. “The Ravens didn’t have to blitz, putting more pressure on their secondary, for Suggs to hit the quarterback. Now, without Suggs, Baltimore should think about sending five defenders more. Instead of being No. 9 in blitzes like last season, the Ravens might have to rank in the top five to produce the same amount of pressure.”

Who is the next man up?

This will be the long-debated question until Week 1 of the season, and perhaps even beyond. While Paul Kruger and the Ravens’ first-overall pick from last weekend, Courtney Upshaw, are the two favorites to play Suggs’ position, both will be required to step up in a major way. Other candidates include Sergio Kindle, Pernell McPhee and Michael McAdoo. In reality, it will take a full team effort to make up for losing arguably the best player the Ravens have on the roster.

“You can’t replace Suggs,” NFL Network’s Charley Casserly said. “What you have to do as a football team is become a better football team in another area. To me, I got to go to the offensive side of the ball. Joe Flacco is a young quarterback – he needs to take it up another step and he can. The offense can get better, they have so many young players on that side of the ball. They should be better. … That’s what has to take off for Suggs – a better offense, a more explosive offense, more time on the field, make the other team play from behind, score more points.”

Would the Ravens consider bringing in a free agent or making a trade?

There is some speculation that the Ravens could explore a trade for New York Giants’ Osi Umenyiora or the Indianapolis Colts’ Dwight Freeney, but those ideas haven’t picked up much steam.  “[The Ravens] never like moving draft picks and they have less than $2 million in salary cap space,” Zrebiec wrote. “The free agent market is also thin on pass rushers though Matt Roth (Jacksonville Jaguars) and Andre Carter (New England Patriots) would bring some pass-rushing skills. However, any of the replacements will obviously represent a serious downgrade over Suggs, who is the franchise’s all-time leader in sacks (82 1/2), sack yardage (610) and forced fumbles (29), and is second in fumble recoveries (11) and third in tackles (660).”

Quick Hits

• TSTREETER8: Just finished training with Ray Lewis….I thank God for him…order my steps Lord [Twitter]
• LaMarrWoodley: Yall kno i strongly dislike the ravens, but i hate hearing about an injury like the suggs 1.. Wishing him a fast recovery… [Twitter]
• WNST: McPhee: “I would love to go out there and prove I’m the guy, but we all just have to stick together.” [Twitter]
• RayRice27: Praying for a healthy speedy recovery for T Sizzle #RavensNation #ballsohard [Twitter]
• pkruger99: Everyone who hates the dentist please give me a shout out cause I’m hatin life right now with 3 route canals… [Twitter]
• NestorAparicio: Can a 30-year old like Terrell Suggs come back from an Achilles injury and still rely on speed as the key ingredient in his game? [Twitter]
• Lucky, lucky … “A source with knowledge of the situation tells PFT that the Ravens considers themselves lucky, given that the Ravens selected Alabama linebacker Courtney Upshaw with its first pick in the 2012 draft, after trading down from the 29th pick in round one,” wrote Florio. ”The Ravens could have gone in many different directions; it was pure fortuity that they opted to pick someone who plays a position of sudden and clear need. Actually, the Ravens may have been better off to have had the injury happen after the draft.  The Ravens, we’re told, would have been far less likely to trade down if Suggs had been injured before the draft.”  [ProFootballTalk.com]
• A little background information on Dr. Anderson, who Suggs will reportedly see Tuesday. [WCNC.com]
• JasonLaCanfora: Just received a press release from the San Diego Coroner’s Office, confirming Junior Seau died from a self-inflicted gun wound [Twitter]
• The Ravens will conduct a football clinic on June 16 at McDaniel College hosted by Head Coach John Harbaugh and members of his coaching staff. [Carroll County Times]
• The New England Patriots have the easiest strength of schedule in the NFL and James Walker argues it got easier as Tom Brady no longer has to worry about Suggs in their Week 3 matchup. [ESPN]
• The “Path to the Draft” crew debates whether Upshaw can help ease the loss of Suggs. [NFL Network]

OFFENSE

Quarterback (2)

Joe Flacco: Entering his fourth season, Flacco’s the unquestioned leader of the offense. He wants to be more aggressive in the passing game, and the Ravens want him to lead them to a Super Bowl.

Tyrod Taylor: Flacco’s backup has impressed Ravens coaches throughout training camp with his poise, toughness and playmaking ability. He would provide quite a change of pace if Flacco were to go down.

Running Back (3)

Ray Rice: Rice is one of the game’s elite playmakers. Behind a revamped offensive line and new fullback, Rice has gained bigger chunks during the preseason and should improve on last year’s numbers.

Ricky Williams: The 12-year veteran will supply a big-bodied complement to Rice and is also superb in pass blocking and receiving out of the backfield, which makes him great in 3rd-and-long situations.

Anthony Allen: The seventh-round rookie beat out veteran Jalen Parmele due to his strong running this preseason. Allen could see some short-yardage situations, but more likely will help on special teams.

Fullback (1)

Vonta Leach: The Pro Bowler is a devastating blocker who just loves to hit people. He helped Arian Foster have a breakout 2010 season and plans on aiding Rice in doing the same in 2011.

Tight End (3)

Ed Dickson: A big, fast target who can expose the deep middle of the field, Dickson will become an integral target in 2011 as he and Dennis Pitta step into Todd Heap’s previous role.

Dennis Pitta: The sure-handed Pitta has a knack for finding openings in the defense, yet can also stretch the field. He and Dickson are both seen as starters by Offensive Coordinator Cam Cameron.

Kris Wilson: An eight-year veteran, Wilson has a background more as a blocker than a receiver, which supplements his younger counterparts. He also has been providing veteran leadership.

Wide Recevier (6)

Anquan Boldin: Improved chemistry between Flacco and Boldin should help the Ravens’ top wideout notch bigger stats this season. He’s a physical football player and great in the red zone.

Lee Evans: The deep threat the Ravens have long desired is now in Baltimore. Evans can blow the top off a defense with his speed and has shown a good early connection with Flacco.

Torrey Smith: Despite some problems with preseason drops, Smith’s talent will be put to use as someone who can stretch the field both on deep passes and in turning short throws into long gains.

Tandon Doss: The sure-handed fourth-round rookie looks to be a chain-moving machine. He has a knack for getting open and also gets up the field quickly after making the catch.

David Reed: He must serve a one-game suspension, but after that, Reed could turn into another shifty, big-play option for the Ravens. He’s got great quickness and leaping ability to make plays.

LaQuan Williams: The undrafted free agent turned out to be a preseason gem, showing his playmaking skills as a receiver and punt returner. Williams figures to be a major special teams contributor.

Offensive Line (9*)

Bryant McKinnie (LT): Signed on Aug. 24, McKinnie has been working to get into game shape. The former first-round pick from Miami has the size (6-foot-8), talent and experience to excel.

Ben Grubbs (LG): Grubbs has been a Pro Bowl alternate the past two seasons and is looking to take that next step in 2011. He’s consistent and feeling good after an offseason ankle procedure.

Matt Birk (C): The biggest question with Birk is how well his knee will hold up after preseason surgery. When healthy, Birk is one of the NFL’s top technicians and a veteran starting anchor on the line.

Marshal Yanda (RG): Retaining the mauling Iowan was a major offseason priority for the Ravens. He brings the physical Baltimore brand of football and could have a Pro Bowl year in his natural position.

Michael Oher (RT): Oher excelled as a right tackle in his rookie season, bringing a nasty style that helped the Ravens have one of the top running games in the league. He has openly accepted the position shift.

Mark LeVoir (T): The veteran supplies experienced depth both at tackle and perhaps at guard, where he played during the third preseason game.

Jah Reid (T): A third-round rookie, Reid was competing for the starting job for most of camp before the McKinnie signing. He’s big, physical and athletic, but needs refinement on his technique.

Bryan Mattison (G/T): A former defensive lineman, Mattison pulled off a successful switch to offense and is on the active roster after three years on the practice squad. He’s a gritty competitor.

*Andre Gurode (C): The five-time Pro Bowler is slated to provide excellent depth behind Birk at center, and could perhaps slide to play some guard if needed. He’s coming off knee surgery as well.
*Officially signed Monday. One player will have to be waived after D. Reed suspension is lifted

DEFENSE

Defensive Tackle (5)

Haloti Ngata: The two-time Pro Bowler is one of the best defensive players in the game and a dominant force as a run stopper. He’s a growing factor in the pass-rush department.

Terrence Cody: In his second season, Cody will step in for Kelly Gregg as the starter at nose tackle. He’s a massive run stuffer who is also athletic enough to push the pocket.

Cory Redding: The veteran got better and better as last season went on and projects to be a starter along the line once again.

Arthur Jones: A year after playing in just two games, Jones is expected to mix in with Redding in 2011. Now trimmer and more explosive, he consistently got into the backfield during the preseason.

Brandon McKinney: Entering his sixth year, McKinney is a standout backup along the front lines. He also started four games last season, recording 10 tackles. He’ll work behind Cody.

Defensive End (3)

Pernell McPhee: Perhaps no Ravens draft pick showed up more in preseason games than McPhee, who logged one sack and nearly had three forced fumbles (all reversed after replay). If he keeps making plays, he could factor in as a pass-rushing option, and will also help on special teams.

Michael McAdoo: The 6-foot-7 specimen was a surprise addition to the 53-man roster, but the Ravens weren’t willing to risk losing that kind of talent, even if it is raw at this point. McAdoo could provide another pass-rush option as he continues to learn and grow.

Albert McClellan: The former Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year is a hard, sure tackler who shows his effort on every play. He could turn into a special teams monster.

Outside Linebacker (4)

Terrell Suggs: A year after notching 11 sacks, Suggs will look to maintain his Pro Bowl form. He’s looked just as impressive this preseason and could be aided by more help on the opposite side.

Jarrett Johnson: Entering his ninth season in Baltimore, Johnson said he feels healthier and stronger than last year when he was coming off shoulder surgery.

Paul Kruger: One of the highlights of the preseason, the former second-round pick seems to have flipped the switch and is consistently getting pressure. He could be a major pass-rushing factor.

Sergio Kindle: A year after missing the entire season due to a fractured skull, Kindle is at least on the field again. He’s an ideal special teams weapon and could be used as a pass-rushing specialist as he continues to rebound.

Inside Linebacker (5)

Ray Lewis: The ageless wonder is still a playmaker and of course a team leader. Lewis said he can’t imagine himself playing past 37 years old and is now 36, so this could be his final year.

Jameel McClain: In his first year as a starter, McClain had a breakout season that earned the former undrafted free agent a second-round tender. He may be the leader in the race to start next to Lewis.

Dannell Ellerbe: The former undrafted rookie has had a more mature outlook this season and could capitalize on his athletic potential. He’s a big thumper in the middle who has a nose for the football and will challenge McClain for starting time.

Brendon Ayanbadejo: The veteran is a standout special teamer who is also in phenomenal shape after a year spent returning from injury. He’s good in coverage and could fill in on third downs.

Jason Phillips: After excelling in the fourth preseason game, Phillips forced his way onto the roster. He’s a hard-nosed tackling machine who excels on special teams coverage.

Cornerback (6)

Domonique Foxworth: The Ravens’ top cornerback in 2009 returned from his season-ending knee injury a bit too fast and has since slowed down a bit. He’s a top-notch NFL cornerback when fully healthy.

Chris Carr: Once a nickel corner, Carr showed he can step in as a full-time starter last year and was re-signed this offseason. The smart, consistent corner could play outside or inside in 2011.

Jimmy Smith: The Ravens’ first-round draft pick has displayed his elite athleticism throughout the preseason. He’s tough to break when in press coverage and will likely have a bigger role as the season goes on and he learns the intricacies of the NFL.

Cary Williams: Last year’s special teams standout has forced his way onto the field with another good preseason. Williams is big and long, which plays into Baltimore’s desire to get more physical outside.

Lardarius Webb: Perhaps the team’s fastest cornerback, Webb is now completely healthy after returning from a knee injury last season. He adds another possible starter and more depth to the corps. Webb could also be the team’s punt returner.

Chykie Brown: The rookie from Texas should be a standout special teams member with his combination of size and speed. In a deep position, he likely won’t see too many defensive snaps, but has potential.

Safety (4)

Ed Reed: A year after finishing tied for the NFL lead in interceptions (8) in just 10 games, Reed is healthy and ready to play from the get-go. This could be his best season yet.

Tom Zbikowski: With Dawan Landry’s departure, Zbikowski will be relied on to help at strong safety. His strengths are in pass coverage, where he filled in as a starter for Reed at the start of last season.

Bernard Pollard: The free-agent addition has made an immediate impact. He’s a big hitter who is a wrecking ball against the run and when blitzing the quarterback. Coaches say Pollard and Zbikowski will play according to scheme.

Haruki Nakamura: He’s a smart, devoted worker that is one of the key members of the special teams unit. Nakamura is also versatile, as he can fill in as a safety or cornerback.

Specialists (3)

Billy Cundiff (K): The 2010 Pro Bowler will likely shatter his own touchbacks record and has been rock solid on his field goal attempts since making 89.7 percent of them last season.

Sam Koch (P): The Ravens’ punter arguably should have been in the Pro Bowl last year. Like Cundiff, he was re-signed to a long-term deal and will look to make Baltimore one of the top special teams units.

Morgan Cox (LS): Back from a season-ending knee injury, the accurate, strong snapper will pick up where he left off with his excellent connection with Cundiff and Koch.

RB Damien Berry (Rookie, Miami)
G/C Justin Boren (Rookie, Ohio State)
QB Hunter Cantwell (1st Year, Louisville)
DB Danny Gorrer (2nd Year, Texas A&M)
DT Bryan Hall (Rookie, Arkansas State)
FB Ryan Mahaffey (Rookie, Northern Iowa)
S Mana Silva (Rookie, Hawaii)
LB Chavis Williams (Rookie, Alabama)

After Saturday’s final roster cut down to 53, all NFL teams were able to sign players to their practice squad, which will serve as the developmental team.

The Ravens have utilized their practice squad in the past. With Matt Birk down due to a knee injury, former practice-squadder Bryan Mattison has taken all the snaps at starting center this preseason.

In addition, Cantwell was a critical cog in the Ravens’ 21-7 win over the Atlanta Falcons in the Ravens’ preseason finale last week, subbing for an injured Tyrod Taylor.

There were also some surprising moves.

Here is a look at the most eye-opening roster moves to take place Saturday:

McAdoo Makes The Team
Former University of North Carolina defensive end Michael McAdoo was only added to the team last week after he wasn’t picked up in the supplemental draft, but he made enough of an impact in the Ravens’ preseason finale that he got a spot on the 53-man squad.

McAdoo recorded a sack-strip in the Ravens’ 21-7 victory over the Atlanta Falcons that was eventually converted into a game-sealing touchdown. The 6-foot-7 pass rusher could make an impact on special teams.

McClellan Anchors Special Teams
Albert McClellan joined the Ravens as an undrafted free agent last year, and he has played his way into a role on the active roster. McClellan finished fourth on the team with nine tackles on defense during the preseason, but Baltimore will look for the Conference USA Defensive Player of the Year to be a special teams leader.

Mattison Provides Center Depth
With Matt Birk sitting out the preseason because of a knee injury, it was Bryan Mattison who manned the center position. A converted defensive tackle, Mattison was a solid fill-in. Perhaps Mattison isn’t ready to regularly start on the Ravens’ offensive line, but he proved he can substitute in a pinch.

Gooden, Burgess Are Released
The Ravens revamped their linebacking corps with the dismissal of Prescott Burgess and Tavares Gooden. There were reports that the Ravens were in talks to trade Gooden to the San Francisco 49ers early on Saturday, but in the end, the former third-round draft pick was let go.

Burgess’ release marks a big hole on special teams, where he led the Ravens with 15 tackles.

Marcus Smith Replaced By Williams
For all intents and purposes, wideout Marcus Smith was released in favor of undrafted free agent LaQuan Williams for the Ravens’ sixth receiver position. Smith was a strong special-teamer with five tackles there last year, but Williams posted two big punt returns and one 38-yard reception in the preseason to show he could make plays in several areas of the game.

Allen Makes It Over Parmele
Jalen Parmele was the Ravens’ top punt returner for the first part of the 2010 campaign, and he manned the third running back role admirably. But, the Ravens decided to go with rookie Anthony Allen instead of Parmele to provide depth in the backfield after a strong preseason. Allen beat the odds, as the Ravens released the last two running backs they took in the draft’s later rounds, getting rid of Cerdic Peerman in 2009 and Allen Patrick in 2008. Allen made a great case after averaging 6.8 yards on 11 carries through the preseason.

Mike Duffy: Once news broke that the Ravens were resting nearly all their starters and Atlanta would play theirs (sans Matt Ryan), you had to be happy that Baltimore’s defense didn’t get run over on the first few series. In fact, backups played Atlanta to a stalemate on those critical drives.  Of course, with an offensive line that was green as the turf in the Georgia Dome, the disruptive pressure that came – especially with Kroy Biermann and Ray Edwards going against Ramon Harewood and Jah Reid – could have been expected. The hope is that Tyrod Taylor’s shoulder contusion isn’t serious, and the Ravens’ starting offensive line won’t be hurt by not getting any game reps before opening weekend.  All in all, it was a good chance to maximize the preseason finale and really evaluate the deeper parts of the roster.

Ryan Mink: First of all, you have to feel for Tyrod Taylor. In his first NFL start, in a chance to prove he can be the Ravens’ No. 2 quarterback, he left very early with a shoulder contusion. Still, some of the bubble players showed up, including linebacker Josh Bynes, cornerback Chykie Brown, wide receiver LaQuan Williams and defensive end Michael McAdoo. The Ravens will have some tough decisions to make before Saturday. Perhaps chief on that list is what to do about the backup quarterback situation.

Sarah Ellison: The story of this game was Tyrod Taylor suffering a shoulder contusion. The sixth-round draft pick was making a bid to become Joe Flacco’s backup, but was knocked out of the game in the first quarter. Taylor will need to have a quick recovery to avoid veteran competition for the No. 2 spot. Outside of that, tonight was a great learning experience for a lot of youngsters trying to make this roster or draw attention from another team. There were a few bubble player standouts: Kris Wilson (making a strong case for No. 3 TE), Jalen Parmele (trying to distance himself from Anthony Allen for No. 3 RB), little-known LB Josh Bynes (relentless pressure resulting in two sacks) and Chykie Brown (the fifth-rounder made some noise with an INT in a crowed CB group).

With two minutes and 16 seconds remaining in the game and the Skins up by four points, quarterback Tyrod Taylor lofted a pass to Allen, who had blazed by a Washington defender, in the end zone.

“I saw the ball and I was like, ‘Oh yeah, here we go. I do this every day,’” Allen said. “Then I short-stroked it.”

In other words, he dropped it. Allen continued running through the back of the end zone and buried his head into the M&T Bank Stadium concourse, as if he was looking for a place to hide.

It was a moment in which the seventh-round pick could have made a statement in his battle for the third running back position behind Ray Rice and Ricky Williams.

But in the end, it seemingly will have little impact on whether he makes the team.

That’s because Allen’s overall performance this preseason have impressed Head Coach John Harbaugh.

“The funny thing is he has great hands,” Harbaugh said. “He’s one of the best hands guy on our team, especially in the backfield. He’ll make a lot more of those [catches] in his career than he’ll drop.

“He had some huge runs, north-south running. He had a good game. [In] pass protection [he] did a good job too.”

Allen has 10 combined rushes for 64 yards in three preseason games, an impressive average of 6.4 yards per carry. He had a 1-yard touchdown run and gallop for 14 yards versus Kansas City and broke off a 20-yarder against the Redskins.

The 6-foot-1, 230-pounder out of Georgia Tech has shown his strong, low running style and how difficult he is to bring down. Against the Chiefs, one defender was literally drug as he hung on to the back of the rookie’s jersey.

“I think my physical nature and the way I run the ball late in the game tends to help,” Allen said. “It just comes with the size.”

Allen’s main competition for a spot on the Ravens’ 53-man roster is fourth-year veteran Jalen Parmele. He was the Ravens’ third running back last year and also served some as their kickoff returner.

Parmele has run 15 times for 55 yards (3.7-yard average), including a 10-yard touchdown, this preseason. He has also been one of several Ravens in the mix at kickoff returner.

While Allen didn’t help himself with the dropped pass Thursday night, Parmele had a fourth-quarter fumble near the Ravens’ red zone.

One factor in the coaches’ decision could be how much Parmele offers in the return game. If Baltimore determines that wide receiver David Reed will be their primary returner, then that could affect Parmele’s value.

Historically, the chances of late-round running backs making the Ravens’ roster haven’t been good. Sixth-rounder Cedric Peerman didn’t make it in 2009, nor did seventh-rounder Allen Patrick in 2008.

But Allen is hoping to turn the tide – and he’s making a strong bid to do so.

“Every game is an audition for me,” Allen said. “I’m just trying to put my best foot forward and my best stuff on the tape so I can make this team.”

“We are excited to be back in the business of football and looking forward to having our players back,” Newsome said.

“With this agreement comes a new salary cap, unlike last season when there was no cap. We will be making a number of roster moves in the next 48 hours that will free up salary cap space. This will give us the ability to make offers to our players we want to re-sign, plus put us in a position to sign free agents from other teams.”

ESPN reported last week that the Ravens are $5.33 million under the 2011 salary cap.

Should a new collective bargaining agreement be reached between NFL owners and the NFL Players Association, McClain is expected to become an unrestricted free agent.

McClain has made no secret of his desire to tote the rock more after leading the Ravens in rushing and touchdowns in 2009.

Regardless of McClain’s situation, however, the Ravens, who have Ray Rice as their primary ball-carrier, would like a fullback like the Alabama product in their backfield.

“The type of running game, the things that we’ve done here, the type of offense and the type of a team we want to be dictates a big, physical fullback,” Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh said in a conference call with season-ticket holders on Wednesday evening. “That’s not all we’re going to do. You need to do some other things. You need to pass protect. You need to get out and run routes and all of that.

“You need to carry the ball a little bit, but I think a big, physical blocking fullback would help us – even if we’re able to keep Le’Ron.”

McClain totaled 232 rushes for 902 yards and 10 scores two seasons ago, but was drawn back into more of a blocking role as Rice earned his stripes.

The four-year veteran has said he still wants to play in purple and black, but he also wants to touch the ball more.

“Le’Ron is probably going evolve his role as a runner in the national football league,” Harbaugh said. “We’ll keep our fingers crossed that it can be here with the Ravens, but we want to put a bruising fullback in front of our running backs if we can.”

Currently, the Ravens have Jason McKie (5-foot-11, 247 pounds) under contract. The veteran fullback played seven years with the Chicago Bears before joining the Ravens towards the end of the 2010 campaign when McClain injured his ankle.