Once he gets a full year in the weight room, look out. He is going to be a beast.
Familiar feel to defense
The Ravens have a new defensive coordinator in Greg Mattison, who replaced Rex Ryan during the offseason. Mattison was the team's linebackers coach last season, and the players haven't noticed much of a change with Mattison calling the shots.
"There are some differences, but not a lot," Ravens outside linebacker Jarret Johnson said. "There are some little differences in the sub packages, stuff like that, and some change in the terminology, but it's pretty much the same. If it ain't broke, don't fix it. Matte is an awesome coach. In some ways, he is very similar to Rex, maybe more serious. But like Rex, he is going to get the guys to play hard for him because they respect him."
Johnson, though, does miss Ryan and outside linebacker Bart Scott. Ryan is the head coach of the New York Jets, and the Jets signed Scott during the offseason. Scott is one of the top trash talkers in the NFL.
"Every once in a while you look over there, and Rex isn't there," Johnson said. "I can't lie and say I don't miss the guy. Bart? Man, I really miss him because Bart talked all the time. It's actually quiet out there without him."
Fitness report
The offseason bulk award goes to second-year running back Ray Rice. The added bulk is definitely noticeable across his chest and lower body. Rice seems to be having a lot of fun at practice and looks more comfortable as a receiver out of the backfield.
On the other side is fullback-halfback Le'Ron McClain, who looks about 20 pounds over his playing weight. This might be a problem if he doesn't get in better condition when training camp starts.
D. Williams impresses
A year ago, wide receiver Demetrius Williams looked a little sluggish at times trying to learn a new offense. But in practice Wednesday, Williams looked good and his legs were fresh.
He caught several passes, including a one-hander in the back of the end zone. He also caught a touchdown pass across the middle before dunking the ball over the goal post. The Ravens are still hoping Williams develops into the deep threat that has been missing from the offense, but unfortunately, we've seen these flashes of brilliance before in practice.
Also, fans shouldn't worry about veteran wide receiver Derrick Mason, even if he can't participate at full tilt in training camp because of a shoulder injury. Mason is a pro, and he'll be ready for the season opener.
One to watch
Keep an eye on tight end Davon Drew, a fifth-round pick out of East Carolina. He's 6 feet 4 and weighs 260 pounds, and will get bigger. He has good hands and already has caught the eye of several Ravens coaches.
