Dickson is hoping to have a bounceback season after seeing his receptions decline in 2012. He has been working to establish an improved rapport and chemistry with quarterback Joe Flacco, and wants to get more involved in the passing game. Dickson was given an original round restricted free agent tender this offseason, so he is also playing for a new contract. With an unproven receiving corps, the Ravens could use more two tight end sets, creating opportunities for Dickson to be one of Flacco's go-to targets.

The former fourth-round pick is heading into his third season and will challenge for a spot in the starting lineup. His opportunities have been limited in his first two seasons, as he's been stuck behind Anquan Boldin and Torrey Smith. With Boldin now in San Francisco, Doss is one of the favorites to emerge and take on a larger role within the offense.

Expectations are high for the first-round pick. Elam joins the Ravens after an All-American college career, and now he's challenging for a starting spot. Elam was a dynamic talent at Florida, and now he's looking to bring that big-play ability to the NFL game. Elam drew positive reviews for his performance in offseason practices, and he could be a household name by the end of the season if he's able to take over for Reed in the secondary.

The veteran safety is eying a starting job after backing up Bernard Pollard and Ed Reed last season. He has played well when given the chance, and now he's competing with Michael Huff and first-round pick Matt Elam for time. Ihedigbo has good coverage skills and is known as a big hitter, which is part of the reason the Ravens re-signed him this offseason.

Jones has made significant strides the last two seasons, developing into a quality run stuffer who also has some pass-rush ability. He notched 4.5 sacks last season and added another one in the playoffs. He will compete for a starting job on the defensive line, competing with Chris Canty, Marcus Spears and DeAngelo Tyson for playing time. The Ravens gave Jones a second-round restricted free agent tender this offseason, showing their belief in him. He's on a one-year deal playing for a contract, which can be a significant motivator.

McPhee dealt with a number of injuries last year after a strong rookie season in 2011. This offseason he's toned up and moved to outside linebacker, rather than the defensive end spot he played the last two years. McPhee is a skilled pass rusher, and putting him at outside linebacker will allow the Ravens to best utilize his strengths. With Terrell Suggs, Elvis Dumervil and Courtney Upshaw, outside linebacker is already a crowded position, but McPhee could emerge as a situational pass rusher similar to the role Paul Kruger played last year.

The athletic offensive lineman started every game last year, playing right tackle in the regular season and left guard in the playoffs. He drew rave reviews at left guard, and he has high expectations for his sophomore season. Osemele is taking a "Pro Bowl or bust" mentality into the year, as he's expected to be the starting left guard again. If Osemele continues to develop, the Ravens could have one of the league's best guard pairings with him and right guard Marshal Yanda.

After a strong finish to his rookie season, Pierce has been a widely-discussed topic in recent weeks. He could challenge Pro Bowler Ray Rice for carries, as he's a powerful runner that brings a change-of-pace out of the backfield. Pierce came on strong in the second half of last season, finishing the year with 532 yards on 108 carries. He added 202 rushing yards on 39 carries in the playoffs. With Rice and Pierce in the backfield, the Ravens will likely have a feared one-two punch.

After dealing with a series of injuries his first two seasons, the former first-round pick is hoping to establish himself as a reliable defender. Smith has shed pounds this offseason and caught the attention of teammates and coaches, who have said he looks like a different player. Smith has all the physical tools to be a star, but he has to get on the field and stay healthy. He will compete with Corey Graham for a starting job opposite of Lardarius Webb.

The undrafted receiver out of Florida made the 53-man roster last year after an impressive training camp and preseason. He began the season as the starting kick returner, before Jacoby Jones ultimately took over the job and had a Pro Bowl season. Thompson stayed on the active roster for the rest of the season, although he was active just once after Week 5. Thompson is now in the middle of the competition at wide receiver, and he could emerge as a valuable weapon out of the slot. Thompson is known for his breakaway speed, which is a tremendous asset for a quarterback with the kind of arm Flacco has.