This is the start of a series that analyzes the moves made to the Baltimore Ravens' position groups this offseason as the team begins Phase Three of its offseason workout program. The Ravens start their first of three organized team activities on Tuesday. The only day open to the media is Thursday.
Returning: Joe Flacco*
Newcomers: Matt Schaub (cut by Raiders), Bryn Renner (cut by Broncos), Jerry Lovelocke (undrafted rookie)
Departures: Tyrod Taylor (free agent signed with Bills), Keith Wenning (cut)
Roster spots likely available: Most likely two
Competition: Renner versus Lovelocke for the No. 3 spot. This technically isn't a spot because the third quarterback is expected to land on the practice squad once the final major cutdown before the regular season occurs. Renner is the favorite after the Ravens cut Wenning, a sixth-round pick from a year ago. A three-year starter at North Carolina, Renner threw 64 touchdowns and 25 interceptions. Lovelocke, a Baltimore native who went to Prairie View, has a strong arm but needs to show more touch on his passes.
Outlook: Flacco, the unquestioned starter, won't see any familiar faces in the quarterback room. The Ravens have replaced Taylor and Wenning with Schaub, Renner and Lovelocke. Schaub is the Ravens' most experienced backup since Marc Bulger in 2010. He's also the most expensive at one year, $2 million. This was a much-needed upgrade because Taylor was a below-average backup. Even though Schaub has struggled mightily the last two seasons, he has a higher passer rating (90.9) than Flacco (84.8) since 2008. This could be inconsequential. The last time the Ravens needed a backup to start a game was 2007, which predates both Flacco and coach John Harbaugh. Flacco is on his fourth offensive coordinator in four seasons. Marc Trestman replaces Gary Kubiak, who left to become the head coach of the Denver Broncos (who just happen to be the Ravens' season opening opponent). Flacco is coming off career highs in passing yards (3,986) and touchdown passes (27).
*Projected starter
