The Ravens have gone through a youth movement this offseason.
Many of the faces that defined the team's run to Super Bowl XLVII are gone, and now it's up to the new players on the roster to help the Ravens get back to the pinnacle of NFL success.
The Ravens have a big group of young talent, and the team will likely have rookie starters on both sides of the ball. Some of those players have already impressed during offseason workouts, so which rookie do you expect to have the biggest impact during the season?
Safety Matt ElamThe first-round pick impressed coaches and media during Organized Team Activities (OTAs) minicamp. He showed off good speed and impressive ball skills, and has a knack for making big plays. He's competing for a starting job along with Michael Huff and James Ihedigbo.
Inside linebacker Arthur BrownA sports hernia injury limited Brown's involvement during offseason practices, but the Ravens have big plans for the second-round pick. He's competing for a starting job in the middle of the defense, and he will help fill the void created by the departures of Ray Lewis and Dannell Ellerbe.
Nose Tackle Brandon WilliamsWilliams stood out from the time he first arrived in Baltimore for rookie minicamp. He's a big bodied, athletic lineman who can eat up blockers in the middle of the defense. His strength is impressive, and he could find a spot on the defensive line ahead of Terrence Cody if he continues to play well heading into training camp.
Outside linebacker John SimonThe Big 10 Defensive Player of the Year has displayed a good motor and pass rush during his first couple months with the Ravens. He's trying to earn playing time at a very deep position on the defense, but he's expected to play an immediate role on special teams and could also be used as a situational pass rusher.
Fullback Kyle JuszczykThe fourth-round pick out of Harvard is in line to be the starting fullback after the team cut veteran Vonta Leach last week. Juszczyk is a versatile weapon with good hands who can play fullback or tight end, and the Ravens will likely look to utilize his pass-catching ability coming out of the backfield.
Wide Receiver Aaron MelletteThe seventh-round pick is in the midst of a position battle along with several other young receivers on the roster. The Elon product dominated at the small-school level in college, catching 30 touchdowns over the last two years, and he's hoping to carve out a role in the offense behind Torrey Smith and Jacoby Jones.
