The Ravens head into the draft with less depth than last season's squad that finished an eyelash of reaching the Super Bowl following the free-agent defections of three valued starters -- left guard Ben Grubbs, outside linebacker Jarret Johnson and end Cory Redding -- as well as a few key reserves. While the team is confident that Paul Kruger and second-year find Pernell McPhee can thrive in increased roles and offset the losses of Johnson and Redding, there's little behind the regulars on the defensive line at the moment. Grubbs' spot may be tougher to fill, as 2011 third-round pick Jah Reid may be best suited to being a swing tackle than a starting guard, while stalwart center Matt Birk has hinted he may retire after this season and there isn't a viable successor currently in place. Georgia guard Cordy Glenn and Wisconsin center Peter Konz are two names often linked to Baltimore's No. 29 overall pick, and either would make sense if they're still on the board. The Ravens will also be on the lookout for a skilled young receiver than can man the slot and further open up the passing game, as well as a running back that can compete with raw sophomore Anthony Allen to fill the void left by Ricky Williams' retirement.
2011 Record: 12-4
Top Needs: OL, WR, DL
First Three Picks: No. 29, No. 60, No. 91
Number of Selections: 8 (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5, 6, 7)
RECENT FIRST ROUND HISTORY: 2011 - Jimmy Smith (CB, Colorado); 2010 - none; 2009 - Michael Oher (OT, Ole Miss); 2008 - Joe Flacco (QB, Delaware); 2007 - Ben Grubbs (G, Auburn); 2006 - Haloti Ngata (DT, Oregon); 2005 - Mark Clayton (WR, Oklahoma); 2004 - none; 2003 - Terrell Suggs (DE, Arizona State), Kyle Boller (QB, California); 2002 - Ed Reed (S, Miami- Florida).
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