Jerry Coleman: Pre-Draft Luncheon
Ravens annual pre-daft luncheon was held at Owings Mills, Wednesday afternoon, with the focal point being blocking out all the nonsense of pushing the 79th annual NFL draft date back to May 8th . Also, a minor foot note was Ray Rice, and his legal issues. GM Ozzie Newsome hinted that even before the incident occurred with Rice in Atlantic City , the brass of the organization addressed the running back position at the end of the season meeting in Jupiter, Florida.
Ozzie on Ray Rice
"We felt like we needed to add some depth at that position coming out of the 2013 season. And even in free agency, we've been in on some backs. We haven't been able to actually get one yet, but we've been in on some pretty good backs."
Ozzie not concerned about chatter
Depending on what happens with Rice, the Ravens are adamant that after finishing 30th overall in rushing yards, is definitely something they want to improve on. Since the front office has already improved the passing game by acquiring Tight End Owen Daniels on a 1-year contact, and Wide Receiver Steve Smith, on a multi-year deal, the Ravens are lacking RB depth. They did add Justin Forrest this offseason, but having another RB would not hurt, and the position is a point of emphasis going into the draft.
Eric Decosta on luck with the draft
Also, the alteration to change of date seems like a disaster. The main reason for the commissioner to do this, was a scheduling conflict with Radio City Music Hall, having an Easter show. That show did not even happen, and was postponed for 2015. Possibly, expect the same dates next year. Regardless, all 32 teams will follow the adjustments and avoid conflict
Ozzie on changing the date
"Whatever is decided, we play along. Could we have picked this week? Yes," Newsome said.
Now that the draft is inching closer, the Ravens are well aware of their most crucial needs. Head Coach John Harbaugh, joked about everybody over analyzing the Ravens issues "It's important to add a running back, but we've got some other spots, too. It's important to add an offensive lineman, a wide receiver, a tight end and some depth at quarterback. It's important to add a safety, a corner, inside backer and a defensive tackle. So, that's where I'm at right now," Harbaugh joked . Everybody knows that the extra time has its drawbacks, yet everyone knows what is at stake.
Harbaugh lists key positions
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