Description: Former Broncos defensive end Elvis Dumervil has signed with the Baltimore Ravens, according to the Denver Post. Dumervil agreed to a restructured deal with the Broncos last week but his agent failed to get the paperwork into the league office before the deadline, leaving the Broncos no choice but to cut Dumervil rather than guaranteeing all $12 million of his salary.
Insight: The release counted as a $5 million hit in dead money on Denver's salary cap, making it impossible for the Broncos to offer Dumervil the same restructured contract. Getting Dumervil is the first real offseason win for the defending Super Bowl champions, who have lost seven starters overall.
Description: The Ravens let Bernard Pollard go on Wednesday.
Insight: The veteran safety, well known for his destruction of Patriots' superstars, led the team in tackles last season (98) despite missing three games because of cracked ribs. Joe Flacco's gigantic contract has given the Ravens' very limited financial flexibility so don't be surprised if the team cuts a few more big names in the coming weeks.
Description: The Baltimore Sun reports that Ravens wideout Anquan Boldin has refused to take a pay cut.
Insight: The Ravens tried to reduce Boldin's annual salary from $6 million to $4 million but the 32-year-old wouldn't allow it. Baltimore could opt to cut Boldin if the two sides can't work out a compromise within the next couple of days.
Description: Joe Flacco's new deal with the Baltimore Ravens is worth $120.6 million over six years, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Insight: The contract makes Flacco the highest-paid player in NFL history. Flacco may have proven himself as a clutch player in winning the Super Bowl but he hasn't put up the regular season stats to warrant taking him as a top 10 fantasy quarterback.
Description: Less than one month after winning the Super Bowl, QB Joe Flacco has reportedly agreed to a long-term contract with the Ravens, according to Jay Glazer of FOX Sports. The deal will be signed on Monday.
Insight: Flacco (22-for-33, 287 yards, 3 TD in the Super Bowl) produced arguably the greatest postseason ever by an NFL quarterback in 2012, throwing 11 touchdown passes without an interception. There was never much doubt that Flacco would be back with the Ravens in 2013, whether it was via the franchise tag or a new contract.
Description: Ravens center Matt Birk has announced his retirement. SOURCE: Baltimore Sun
Insight: The 36-year-old finished his career on top by winning a Super Bowl in his final season in Baltimore. In 15 seasons, the Harvard graduate was invited to six Pro Bowls. He spent his first 11 seasons with Minnesota before signing with Baltimore in 2009.
Description: According to NBC's Erik Kuselias, wideout Anquan Boldin will announce his retirement if the Ravens cut him during the offseason.
Insight: Boldin has decided that Baltimore is where he'll finish his NFL career. Boldin was spectacular in the playoffs (22 receptions, 380 yards, four TD) and at age 32, he still has plenty left in the tank. We're guessing the Ravens will come to their senses and hold on to Boldin, though he may have to take a paycut.
Description: Ravens DT Haloti Ngata has no major ligament damage in his left knee. "Nothing serious with Haloti," Baltimore coach John Harbaugh said. "There are some things in there. We'll just have to see, but it won't be anything that should keep him out of training camp or anything like that." SOURCE: Baltimore Sun
Insight: Ngata hurt his left knee during the Super Bowl but he appears to have avoided a serious injury. He should be back in plenty of time for training camp next season.
Description: Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco said "I'm a Raven for life" after defeating the 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII Sunday at the Superdome in New Orleans.
Insight: Flacco (22-for-33, 287 yards, 3 TD in the Super Bowl) produced arguably the greatest postseason ever by an NFL quarterback in 2012, throwing 11 touchdown passes without an interception. Flacco will be a free agent after the season but there's little doubt about where he'll play next season. He might not be a Raven for life but Flacco should be in purple and black for a long time.
Description: ESPN's Adam Schefter suggested that the Ravens might cut wide receiver Anquan Boldin after the season.
Insight: Boldin has carried the Ravens in the postseason (276 yards and three TD) and even at age 32, he's still one of the most physically gifted receivers in the NFL. But this isn't about Boldin's ability: this is about money. The Ravens have made it clear that re-signing Joe Flacco will be their top priority this offseason. That means Boldin will have to take a significant pay cut if he wants to return to Baltimore in 2013.
Description: Baltimore general manager Ozzie Newsome guaranteed that quarterback Joe Flacco will be with the Ravens next season. SOURCE: CBS Sports
Insight: The implication was that Flacco would be given the franchise tag while the team worked out a long-term deal. Flacco has been excellent this postseason, recording a 114.7 QB rating in three games.
Description: The Boston Herald reports that Baltimore safety Ed Reed could "definitely" picture himself playing for New England head coach Bill Belichick.
Insight: Reed also made headlines by admitting to having lapses in his memory as a result of multiple concussions throughout his career. Reed said earlier this offseason that he'll definitely be back for the 2013 season but he didn't necessarily mean with the Ravens. Sports Illustrated's Peter King pointed out that New England could be a good fit for Reed about a week ago so the idea of Reed playing for the Patriots didn't just come out of left field.
Description: Comcast Philly reports that the Eagles are looking into acquiring Baltimore QB Dennis Dixon after the season.
Insight: Dixon played under Chip Kelly at Oregon, so it makes sense that he'd go to the Eagles. With that said, Dixon hasn't thrown a pass in the NFL since 2010 and has only started two NFL games since entering the league in 2008. We doubt he'd have much of an impact on fantasy even if he and Kelly are reunited in Philadelphia.
Description: According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Baltimore QB Joe Flacco is hoping for a larger contract than Peyton Manning when he becomes a free agent after the season.
Insight: Manning makes $19.2 million annually so it sounds like Flacco is hoping for at least $20 million. There's no way Flacco deserves to be paid as much as Peyton but guiding the Ravens to the Super Bowl certainly granted him a bit more leverage on that front. It would be an upset if Flacco plays for anyone other than Baltimore in 2013.
Description: Peter King from Sports Illustrated believes Ravens safety Ed Reed will test the open market when he becomes a free agent this offseason.
Insight: King mentioned New England as a possible destination for the nine-time Pro Bowler. Reed will be playing in his first Super Bowl next week in Miami.
Description: When asked if he was considering retirement, Ravens safety Ed Reed responded, "I'll be playing next year. Next question."
Insight: 2013 will be Reed's 12th season in the NFL. Reed tied for the team-lead in interceptions this season with four. Next week's game against the 49ers will mark the 34-year-old's first trip to the Super Bowl.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith is listed on the team's injury report with a back issue, but is probable for the AFC Championship on Sunday against New England.
Insight: Smith got the best of Champ Bailey last week with three catches for 98 yards and two scores and will likely draw Aqib Talib this Sunday. He caught six balls for 127 and two scores against the Patriots in Week 3, but that was "pre-Talib."
Description: Baltimore backup running back Bernard Pierce is questionable for the AFC Championship on Sunday against New England after injuring his knee in the game against Denver.
Insight: Pierce was limited in Wednesday's practice and didn't practice on Thursday. Though he guaranteed he would play, the injury is likely to limit his playing time and we don't expect a productive day out of him.
Description: Ravens' wideout Anquan Boldin, who has been dealing with a shoulder injury, was a full participant in both Wednesday and Thursday's practices and is probable for the AFC Championship on Sunday against New England.
Insight: Boldin's shoulder injury should not be of concern to any fantasy owners and with Pats' CB Aqib Talib likely to focus on Torrey Smith, Boldin could be Joe Flacco's No. 1 target.
Description: Baltimore running back Ray Rice could be in line for a huge workload in the AFC Championship game against New England if backup Bernard Pierce's knee injury keeps him on the sidelines.
Insight: Baltimore gave Rice 30 carries against Denver and he rushed for 131 yards and a touchdown. He could see a similar workload against New England. Rice ran for 101 yards and a touchdown in a Week 3 win over the Patriots.
Description: Baltimore backup running back Bernard Pierce is questionable for the AFC Championship on Sunday against New England due to a knee injury suffered in the win over Denver.
Insight: Pierce ran well against Indianapolis in the first round of the playoffs, getting 13 carries for 103 yards, but rushed just five times in Denver before being sidelined by the injury. Add fantasy value to Ray Rice if Pierce's situation doesn't improve.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith made 12-time Pro Bowler Champ Bailey look like a chump Saturday in the Ravens' divisional round victory. Smith caught three balls for 98 yards and two scores, torching Bailey for a 59-yarder and a 32-yarder.
Insight: Smith's first two seasons in the NFL were nearly identical -- 50 catches, 841 yards, 7 touchdowns in 2011 and 49 receptions, 855 yards, 8 touchdowns in 2012. Smith will have to develop into more than just a deep threat to break out in 2013, something he certainly has the talent to do. The Ravens will advance to the final four for the second straight season.
Description: Baltimore halfback Ray Rice rushed 30 times for 131 yards and a touchdown Saturday against the Broncos to help the Ravens move on to the AFC Championship game.
Insight: Baltimore gave Rice 30 carries one week after he lost two fumbles against the Colts. Meanwhile, Bernard Pierce had five carries for 14 yards. Rice will get either New England or Houston next week on the road. Rice ran for 101 yards and a touchdown in a Week 3 win over the Patriots but just 42 yards on nine carries in a Week 7 loss versus the Texans.
Description: Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco sent Peyton Manning and the Broncos packing from the playoffs Saturday with 331 yards, three touchdowns and zero interceptions in a double-overtime win.
Insight: Flacco only completed 52.9 percent of his passes but hit on a number of deep balls to average 9.7 yards for attempt. The quarterback has led the Ravens to the AFC Championship game in three of his five NFL seasons.
Description: Ravens' wideout Anquan Boldin, who was spectacular last Sunday against Indianapolis (5-145-1) has been a full participant in both practices this week and is a go for Saturday against Denver..
Insight: Boldin's shoulder injury should not be of concern to any fantasy owners. With Champ Bailey likely to match up against the Ravens' deep threat, Torrey Smith, Boldin could produce big numbers for a second consecutive week.
Description: Baltimore OT Jah Reid will not be available for Saturday's AFC Divisional Playoff against Denver after being placed on the injured reserve due to a toe injury.
Insight: Heading to Denver to face Peyton Manning and the Broncos' powerful offense, the Ravens will likely want to run the ball as much as possible. Bryant McKinnie will start at left tackle and Kelechi Osemele at left guard, but they won't have Reid to back them up.
Description: Baltimore backup running back Bernard Pierce who has been dealing with an ankle injury was back on the field for Thursday (limited) after missing Wednesday's practice.
Insight: Pierce ran well against Indianapolis in the first round of the playoffs, getting 13 carries for 103 yards. That's above his normal 6-8 touches and hurt Ray Rice's totals. Rice rushed for 70 yards on 15 carries and caught one ball for 47 ytards. Pierce's performance could earn him double-digit touches against Denver.
Description: Ravens' guard Marshal Yanda is listed as probable for Saturday's game against Denver. He's been dealing with a high-ankle sprain from Week 14.
Insight: Yanda will still be less than 100 percent, but the Ravens have to have him in the lineup if they want to run the ball against a Denver rush defense which is yielding just 91.1 ypg.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith was limited in practice with an unknown back injury. We hope to get a better idea after Friday's practice, but at this time we expect him to play on Saturday.
Insight: Smith should start against Denver but will likely draw Champ Bailey which isn't a great matchup.
Description: Baltimore backup running back Bernard Pierce has been dealing with an ankle injury and is not practicing Wednesday.
Insight: Pierce ran well against Indianapolis in the first round of the playoffs, getting 13 carries for 103 yards. That's above his normal 6-8 touches and hurt Ray Rice's totals. Rice rushed for 70 yards on 15 carries and caught one ball for 47 ytards. Pierce's performance could earn him double-digit touches against Denver.
Description: Baltimore OT Jah Reid is questionable for Saturday's AFC Divisional Playoff against Denver with a toe injury.
Insight: Heading to Denver to face Peyton Manning and the Broncos' powerful offense, the Ravens will likely want to run the ball as much as possible, so a healthy offensive line would certainly help facilitate that strategy.
Description: Ravens' linebacker Dannell Ellerbe is questionable for Saturday's AFC Divisional Playoff game against Denver after spraining his right ankle in Sunday's game with the Colts.
Insight: According to a Baltimore Sun report, Ellerbe said he expects to play next weekend versus the Broncos. Baltimore will need all hands on deck if they are to slow down Peyton Manning and Denver's offense which is averaging 30.1 ppg.
Description: Baltimore halfback Ray Rice rushed for 70 yards and lost two fumbles Sunday against the Colts.
Insight: What's equally alarming is that Bernard Pierce saw almost as many carries as Rice did on (13 for Pierce, 15 for Rice). Could the Ravens be headed for a running back by committee system? Rice's fantasy owners better hope not.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Ray Lewis was fantastic Sunday in his return from a torn triceps. Lewis produced a game-high 13 tackles as the Ravens beat the Colts to advance to the second round of the AFC playoffs.
Insight: Simply incredible. Lewis may have been the best defensive player on the field on Sunday. His only slip-up came in the first half when he dropped what would have been a sure interception. Sunday was the 37-year-old's final game at M&T Bank Stadium as Lewis announced recently that he will retire at the end of the season.
Description: Ravens wideout Anquan Boldin was spectacular Sunday against Indianapolis. He caught five passes for 145 yards and a touchdown.
Insight: Boldin's 18-yard touchdown grab was a thing of beauty. The defender had his hands all over Boldin but somehow he still made the catch. Boldin missed last week's game against Cincinnati because of a shoulder injury.
Description: Ravens QB Joe Flacco wasn't particularly accurate Sunday against the Colts (just 12-of-23 passing) but he still managed to throw for 282 yards and a pair of touchdowns as Baltimore captured a 24-9 victory.
Insight: Running backs Bernard Pierce (13 carries, 103 yards) and Ray Rice (70 yards on 15 rushes) both had productive games, which took some of the pressure off of Flacco and the passing game. Flacco and the Ravens will head to Denver next week. Flacco had two touchdowns and 254 yards passing when he played the Broncos earlier in the season (Denver won, 34-17).
Description: Baltimore backup running back Bernard Pierce has been dealing with an ankle injury that has limited him in practice, but he is expected to be ready to go on Sunday versus Indianapolis in the first round of the playoffs.
Insight: Pierce should see his usual workload, about six to eight carries, as Ray Rice's backup.
Description: Baltimore receiver Anquan Boldin was a full participant in Friday's practice and is probable for Sunday's AFC Wild Card Playoff against Indianapolis. He's dealing with a shoulder injury.
Insight: The Ravens rested most of their starters last Sunday to avoid injury heading into this week's first round matchup against the Colts. Boldin's shoulder is fine and we'd be shocked if he's not on the field this week against Indianapolis.
Description: Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis announced Wednesday that the 2012 postseason "will be my last ride." The linebacker will retire having made 12 Pro Bowl teams, fifth all-time.
Insight: Lewis will play on Sunday against the Colts for the first time since tearing his triceps two months ago. Lewis is one of four players in NFL history to have at least 25 sacks and 30 interceptions, according to ESPN Stats & Information.
Description: Baltimore receiver Anquan Boldin (shoulder) is probable for Sunday's AFC Wild Card Playoff against Indianapolis. He's dealing with a shoulder injury.
Insight: The Ravens rested most of their starters on Sunday to avoid injury heading into this week's first round matchup against the Colts. Boldin's shoulder is fine and we'd be shocked if he's not on the field this week against Indianapolis.
Description: According to the Baltimore Sun, receiver Anquan Boldin (shoulder) says he could have played Sunday against Cincinnati if the Ravens needed him to.
Insight: The Ravens rested most of their starters on Sunday to avoid injury heading into next week's first round matchup against the Colts. Boldin's shoulder is fine and we'd be shocked if he's not on the field this week against Indianapolis.
Description: Ravens receiver Anquan Boldin is out for Sunday's regular season finale against Cincinnati.
Insight: The Ravens are just giving Boldin a week of rest leading up to the postseason. He'll finish the 2012 regular season with 921 yards and four touchdowns on 65 receptions.
Description: Contrary to an earlier report, Ravens running back Ray Rice will be active for Sunday's game against the Bengals.
Insight: ESPN's Adam Schefter had reported Rice would be out but now he's hearing that Rice will play "a series or two" before coming out of the game. Despite Rice's surprise activation, Bernard Pierce remains the stronger fantasy option this week.
Description: Ray Rice's absence Sunday should tell fantasy owners all they need to know about coach John Harbaugh's intentions for Week 17 against the Bengals.
Insight: Rice is fully healthy but will be rested for the playoffs. Look for Flacco, Torrey Smith and Anquan Boldin to be joining him on the sidelines early in Sunday's game.
Description: Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that Baltimore halfback Ray Rice is likely to sit out Sunday's regular season finale in Cincinnati to rest up before the playoffs.
Insight: Well, that's inconvenient. Rice's backup Bernard Pierce (career-high 123 yards last week in a win over the Giants) should be a suitable replacement for owners looking for a quick-fix in Week 17.
Description: Baltimore safety Ed Reed was fined $55,000 for a crushing hit to Giants receiver Victor Cruz in Week 16.
Insight: Reed was suspended and fined $50,000 last month but had the suspension dropped after an appeal. He avoided suspension again but will take another huge hit to his wallet.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Ray Lewis was activated Wednesday, but coach John Harbaugh said he would not play in the season finale.
Insight: It appears Lewis is healthy and the Ravens are just saving him for the playoffs. New England is using a similar approach with Pro Bowl tight end Rob Gronkowski, who has missed five weeks in a row because of a broken forearm.
Description: Baltimore wideout Anquan Boldin injured shoulder is just a bruise and minor as coach John Harbaugh described it on Sunday after the game.
Insight: Boldin was having a strong game in Week 16 before the injury (seven catches, 93 yards), but wasn't asked to return to the game because the Ravens were in the process of dominating the Giants.
Description: Baltimore wideout Anquan Boldin injured his shoulder during the third quarter of Sunday's game against the Giants and is listed as questionable, but coach John Harbaugh called it a "minor" injury.
Insight: Boldin was having a strong game before the injury (seven catches, 93 yards). Except for getting shut out by Denver in Week 15, Boldin has played well over the last few weeks.
Description: Baltimore wideout Anquan Boldin injured his shoulder during the third quarter of Sunday's game against the Giants. His return is doubtful.
Insight: Boldin was having a strong game before the injury (seven catches, 93 yards). Look for Jacoby Jones to become more involved in the Ravens' offense now that Boldin is likely done for the day.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith (concussion) will play Sunday. SOURCE: ProFootballTalk.com
Insight: Smith hasn't shown any lingering effects of the concussion that knocked him out of last week's game. However, Smith is too boom-or-bust to trust in a fantasy championship game, even with a clean bill of health.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith (concussion) is expected to play Sunday against the Giants. SOURCE: Baltimore Sun
Insight: Smith hasn't shown any lingering effects of the concussion that knocked him out of last week's game, coach John Harbaugh said, but he still needs to pass a baseline neurological test to be allowed to play. Even with a clean bill of health, Smith is too boom-or-bust to trust in a fantasy championship game.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Ray Lewis won't be activated Sunday against the Giants and it's unlikely he'll return before the end of the regular season. Lewis has been out the last eight games with a torn triceps.
Insight: It appears Lewis is healthy and the Ravens are just saving him for the playoffs. New England is using a similar approach with Pro Bowl tight end Rob Gronkowski, who has missed four weeks in a row because of a broken forearm.
Description: Albert Breer of the NFL Network expects Baltimore to place the franchise tag on starting quarterback Joe Flacco this offseason.
Insight: The Ravens weren't able to reach a long-term agreement with Flacco this summer and it remains to be seen whether or not the two sides can work out a deal during the offseason. Flacco is having an average season with 20 touchdown passes and 10 interceptions in 14 games.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith (concussion) was back at practice Thursday. SOURCE: Aaron Wilson, Baltimore Sun
Insight: It looks like Smith will be able to go Sunday against the Giants. However, while Atlanta's Julio Jones torched New York's decimated secondary for a 40-yard touchdown last week, Smith is too boom-or-bust to trust in a fantasy championship game, especially coming off a concussion.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith, who suffered a concussion during the third quarter of last Sunday's game against Denver, is questionable for Sunday's game against the NY Giants.
Insight: The concussion was only supposed to be mild, but he only has a couple of days to recover or fantasy owners will have to make alternate plans. It's been a month since Smith put up a big game as Anquan Boldin has come on to steal some of his thunder.
Description: Baltimore tight end Ed Dickson is questionable for Sunday's game against the New York Giants with a knee injury.
Insight: He hasn't played since Week 12 against San Diego. The Ravens' other tight end, Dennis Pitta, had the best game of the his career, catching seven balls for 125 yards and two scores.
Description: Baltimore backup running back Bernard Pierce, who was knocked out of the Denver due to a concussion, is doubtful for Week 16 against the Giants.
Insight: The concussion to Pierce should mean more carries for Ray Rice which fantasy owners will appreciate.
Description: With the Broncos up big Sunday in Baltimore, Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta was able to boost his stat line with a pair of fourth quarter touchdowns.
Insight: Pitta produced a career-high 125 receiving yards Sunday against Denver. His seven touchdown catches this season (also a personal best) ranks fifth among NFL tight ends.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith suffered a concussion during the third quarter of Sunday's game against Denver and is out for the remainder of the game.
Insight: Smith tried to walk it off on the sidelines but it looked like he was having trouble regaining his balance. He'll finish the afternoon with one reception for 14 yards.
Description: Ravens running back Ray Rice will start Sunday against the Broncos, as expected.
Insight: Rice was limited in practice this week because of a hip pointer but it was never expected to keep him out of Sunday's game. Rice needs just seven more rushing yards to secure his fourth consecutive 1,000 yard season.
Description: Baltimore tight end Ed Dickson is out for Sunday's game against Denver. Dickson is still recovering from a knee injury.
Insight: He hasn't played since Week 12 against San Diego and he never had much chance of suiting up this week. Dennis Pitta (488 yards, five TD) will fill in at tight end, though he's pretty hit or miss when it comes to fantasy production.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Terrell Suggs will be in action Sunday against Denver according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. Suggs missed last week's game against the Redskins because of a torn bicep.
Insight: Cornerback Jimmy Smith (hernia) is also back in the fold for the Ravens though linebacker Ray Lewis (triceps) is still at least a week away from returning.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Ray Lewis (triceps) will not be activated from injured reserve this week against the Broncos. SOURCE: Michelle Beisner, NFL Network.
Insight: Lewis has been on IR for eight weeks and is first eligible to return in Week 15. However, the Ravens are not planning on making the veteran available. There should be absolutely nothing deterring you from playing Peyton Manning, Demariyus Thomas, Eric Decker and Knowshon Moreno Sunday.
Description: Baltimore Ravens running back Ray is dealing with a sore hip, but it's not expected to keep him off the field.
Insight: Rice posted his third 100-yard game of the season last week and has carried the ball at least 20 times in three of the last four Ravens games. Start him without worry as Baltimore would be smart to use him to keep the ball out of Peyton Manning's hands.
Description: Ravens tight end Ed Dickson is doubtful for Sunday's game against Denver after with a knee injury.
Insight: The injury was from Week 11 and wasn't thought to be major, but this will be the fourth game in a row he's missed.The Ravens have two quality tight ends in Dickson and Dennis Pitta, so this should not effect Joe Flacco's production.
Description: Ravens receiver Torrey Smith was limited to one catch by the Redskins Sunday.
Insight: Typical Torrey. The Ravens second-year pass-catcher is feast-or-famine every week. He's only on pace for 927 yards, which would only be an 86-yard improvement on last season's total.
Description: Two of Ravens receiver Anquan Boldin's three catches went for touchdowns Sunday against Washington.
Insight: Boldin had 78 yards in the game. The veteran has caught three touchdowns in the last two games after going 10 games without one. He's quietly on pace for his first 1,000-yard campaign since 2009-10.
Description: Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco finally stepped up in a road game Sunday at Washington, throwing three touchdowns in an overtime loss.
Insight: Flacco came in having thrown just four touchdown passes in six road games this season. He finished Sunday's game with 182 yards on 16-of-21 passing. While he's been better at home, he probably shouldn't be trusted in Week 15 versus Denver.
Description: After not touching the ball in the fourth quarter of Baltimore's Week 13 loss to Pittsburgh, Ravens running back Ray "fourth-and-29" Rice carried the ball 20 times for 121 yards and a touchdown Sunday against the Redskins.
Insight: Rice is on pace for 23 fewer carries and 12 fewer receptions than last season. Rice also reportedly suffered a hip pointer during the game but didn't miss any time and shouldn't be in doubt for Week 15.
Description: NFL Network's Albert Breer believes Baltimore linebacker Terrell Suggs will not play Sunday against Washington. Suggs tore his biceps during Sunday's loss to Pittsburgh.
Insight: This would be a huge loss to the Ravens defense, particularly when trying to contain Washington's rookie QB Robert Griffin III.
Description: Jason La Canfora of CBS Sports believes Baltimore linebacker Terrell Suggs will try to play Sunday against Washington. Suggs tore his biceps during Sunday's loss to Pittsburgh.
Insight: Suggs at less than 100 percent is still better than almost anyone else in the league and with homefield advantage on the line, the Ravens are willing to risk it. We think he'll be active for Sunday's matchup against the 6-6 Redskins.
Description: Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs' upper arm injury is a torn biceps. SOURCE: Adam Schefter, ESPN
Insight: According to Schefter, doctors say there are some torn biceps players can play through, and others they can't. Suggs will seek a second opinion to determine his status.
Description: Ravens LB Terrell Suggs has an upper arm injury and is still being evaluated, Baltimore coach John Harbaugh said Monday. SOURCE: Aaron Wilson, Baltimore Sun
Insight: Suggs has only collected two sacks and 19 tackles in six games since returning Week 7 at Houston. Harbaugh said he doesn't know the extent of Suggs' injury.
Description: Ravens running back Ray Rice didn't touch the ball in the fourth quarter of the team's 23-20 loss to Pittsburgh and he had just 12 rushing attempts for the entire game.
Insight: Strange that the Ravens don't get him the ball more often. Over the past two seasons when Rice rushes the ball 20 times or more the team is 12-0. When he gets fewer than 20 carries they are 9-7. Rice's fantasy owners will want to send this information on to management.
Description: Ravens tight end Ed Dickson is inactive for Sunday's game against Pittsburgh after suffering a knee injury in Week 12 against San Diego.
Insight: The injury isn't thought to be major, but will keep him outof the lineup for at least one week.The Ravens have two quality tight ends in Dickson and Dennis Pitta.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith has been sitting out some work lately, but practiced on Friday and is in no danger of missing Sunday's big game with rival Pittsburgh.
Insight: Smith came up huge in the fourth quarter and overtime against San Diego finishing with seven catches for 144 yards as Joe Flacco led a furious second-half comeback via the passing game.
Description: Ravens tight end Ed Dickson is questionable for Sunday's game against Pittsburgh after suffering a knee injury in Week 12 against san Diego.
Insight: The injury isn't thought to be major. The Ravens have two quality tight ends in Dickson and Dennis Pitta.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Ray Lewis (triceps) could return to the lineup from a torn triceps as early as Week 15. SOURCE: Michael Silver, Yahoo! Sports
Insight: Yahoo! cited more than a half dozen sources who said Lewis is expected to return before the end of the 2012 season. The 37-year-old could be back for Dec. 16 against the Broncos, a game that could decide the AFC's No. 2 seed.
Description: Ravens running back Ray Rice made the play of the day Sunday when he converted a fourth-and-29 on a dump off pass with less than two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. Rice finished with 97 rushing yards on 22 carries and 67 receiving yards on eight receptions.
Insight: Rice is averaging less rushing yards and receiving yards per game than last season and is on pace for less touchdowns, but he's still an integral part of Baltimore's offense and is likely to see 20-plus touches in each of the remaining five games. Next up is the Steelers, who held Rice to 40 yards on 20 carries in Week 11.
Description: Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta has passed all his concussion tests and is ready to play Sunday against the Chargers.
Insight: Pitta is very close to eclipsing his receiving totals from last season and Baltimore still has six games left to play. We're projecting him to have a solid week against San Diego's 19th-ranked pass defense.
Description: Baltimore safety Ed Reed won his appeal and will not be suspended for Sunday's game against San Diego.
Insight: Reed will instead pay a $50,000 fine. The league disciplined Reed earlier in the week for an illegal hit he made against Steelers receiver Emmanuel Sanders on Sunday Night Football.
Description: Baltimore tight end Dennis Pitta is doubtful for Sunday's game against San Diego due to a concussion
Insight: Pitta will need to pass all his concussion tests this week if he wants to play Sunday. After a hot early-season run, Pitta has been kept under control of late with just one touchdown catch over the last eight games.
Description: Ravens safety Ed Reed has been suspended for one game by the NFL for repeated safety violations according to NFL.com.
Insight: Reed delivered a huge helmet-to-helmet hit on Steelers wideout Emmanuel Sanders Sunday night in Pittsburgh. Reed has been known for instigating these kinds of collisions over the years but apparently the league has decided that it won't tolerate this recklessness anymore. He'll miss Sunday's matchup against the Chargers.
Description: Baltimore tight end Dennis Pitta suffered a concussion Sunday night in a win over Pittsburgh.
Insight: Pitta will need to pass all his concussion tests this week if he wants to play Sunday against the Chargers. Pitta had just one catch for five yards before leaving the game.
Description: Baltimore cornerback Jimmy Smith had sports hernia surgery on Thursday morning and is expected to be out indefinitely.
Insight: The Ravens' defense is an absolute mess right now and this injury certainly doesn't help matters. Even with slow-as-molasses Byron Leftwich under center, the Steelers should enjoy plenty of success in the passing game Sunday against Baltimore's shorthanded secondary.
Description: Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta had his best game since Week 3 Sunday against the Raiders, catching five passes for 67 yards and a touchdown.
Insight: Pitta looked to be emerging as a potential TE1 in the first three weeks of the season but his production has fallen off a cliff since then. He'll try to keep things going in the right direction in Week 11 against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith has averaged just three receptions and 43.2 yards per game in his last five but he's maintained his value with three touchdowns in that span.
Insight: Smith caught just two balls Sunday against Oakland but both went for scores. The second-year receiver out of Maryland now has seven touchdowns on the year, matching his rookie-year total.
Description: Baltimore QB Joe Flacco had his best fantasy game of the season, throwing for 341 yards with three passing touchdowns and one rushing score Sunday against the Raiders.
Insight: Flacco came in having thrown just three touchdown passes with one 200-yard effort in the last four games. He shouldn't be trusted in Week 11 at Pittsburgh.
Description: Ravens coach John Harbaugh admitted the team should have stuck with the running game in Sunday's loss to Houston, according to the Baltimore Sun. Star running back Ray Rice finished the game with nine carries for 42 yards and five catches for 12 yards.
Insight: Rice has been less involved in the Ravens' offense this season, averaging 15.1 carries and 4.1 receptions per game compared to 18.2 and 4.8 last season. However, the numbers show that Rice had 15.3 carries and 4.7 catches per game in the first seven contests last year before carrying the ball 20-plus times in eight of the team's final nine games.
Description: Baltimore defensive end/linebacker Terrell Suggs recorded four tackles and a sack in his return to action Sunday in Houston.
Insight: It didn't seem to make much of a difference as the Texans steamrolled the Ravens defense Sunday for 43 points. The good news is Suggs didn't suffer any setbacks and he should be even more effective with two solid weeks of practice under his belt before Baltimore's next game November 4th in Cleveland.
Description: Baltimore wideout Torrey Smith was targeted 13 times on Sunday but only came down with four catches for 41 yards.
Insight: Smith had only been targeted eight times combined the previous two weeks so the 13 looks is a significant improvement. Now he and quarterback Joe Flacco just need to get on the same page.
Description: Baltimore QB Joe Flacco stunk up the joint with an awful 147-yard performance Sunday at Houston.
Insight: Flacco has been brilliant at home this season, completing 94 of 140 passes for seven TD and a 106.6 quarterback rating. Unfortunately, this game was played on the road, where Flacco has a QB rating of just 55.9. Flacco and the Ravens will have a bye next week before returning to action Week 9 against Cleveland.
Description: Baltimore defensive end Terrell Suggs will play Sunday against Houston. He was a game-time call because of an Achilles injury.
Insight: We're guessing the Ravens will try and ease their star defensive end back by limiting his snaps in Week 7. Arian Foster and Matt Schaub should be able to have good games against a Ravens' defense still ailing from the losses of star linebacker Ray Lewis and cornerback Lardarius Webb. Safety Ed Reed (torn labrum) won't be at full strength this week either.
Description: Ravens defensive end Terrell Suggs has been downgraded to a game-time decision Sunday against Houston. Suggs (Achilles) was activated from the team's physically unable to perform list on Saturday.
Insight: We assumed the activation meant Suggs would play but apparently that's not necessarily the case. If Suggs sits, Albert McClellan would likely get the start in his place.
Description: Ravens safety Ed Reed should see some action as a punt returner this week against the Texans.
Insight: Usually Lardarius Webb handles the return duties for Baltimore but he's out for the year with a torn ACL. Reed (torn labrum) is struggling with an injury of his own, so we wouldn't expect him to be all that effective in this new role. The 34-year-old has one touchdown on 29 career punt returns.
Description: Baltimore defensive end Terrell Suggs has been activated from the physically unable to perform list. He'll make his season debut Sunday against the Texans.
Insight: Suggs missed the team's first six games while recovering from an Achilles injury. He should provide an enormous boost to a team that lost two of its best defensive players to injury earlier in the week.
Description: ESPN's John Clayton speculates that a decision will be made Saturday on whether or not Ravens defensive end Terrell Suggs will play Sunday against Houston.
Insight: Suggs has missed Baltimore's first six games with an Achilles injury. Though Suggs claims he's ready to play on Sunday, it seems more likely the Ravens will wait until next week to activate him.
Description: Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh doesn't seem overly concerned about the torn labrum in Ed Reed's shoulder. SOURCE: Baltimore Sun
Insight: Harbaugh insists Reed, who has always had a reputation for toughness, will play through the injury. With Ray Lewis and Lardarius Webb already out for the year, the Ravens don't have much of a choice.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Ray Lewis told his teammates that he will return for at least one more season in the NFL. Lewis is out for the rest of the 2012 campaign because of a torn triceps.
Insight: The 13-time Pro Bowler will turn 38 next May. Fourth-year linebacker Dannell Ellerbe will be taking Lewis' place in the starting lineup this week against Houston.
Description: Even though ESPN's Adam Schefter said Baltimore linebacker Terrell Suggs (Achilles) is expecting to play Sunday against Houston just six months after tearing his Achilles tendon, a source told the Baltimore Sun that the Ravens do not expect him back this week.
Insight: Suggs may want to play but the team has the final say. "He's not playing. I'd be shocked if he plays," the Sun's source said. Schefter said Suggs' family and friends have been making plans to travel to Houston in anticipation of Suggs making his season debut but it sounds like they'll be disappointed.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Terrell Suggs (Achilles) is fresh off an activation from the PUP list and he's already expecting to play Sunday against Houston, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN. If there are no setbacks this week, Suggs should play Sunday; his family and friends are planning on making the trip to Houston to watch him, Schefter said.
Insight: The Ravens desperately need Suggs after Ray Lewis and Lardarius Webb both suffered season-ending injuries last week but he tore his Achilles tendon six months ago so it's a major shock that he could be ready to play this week. Suggs has 25 sacks, two picks, nine forced fumbles and eight passes deflected in his last 32 games.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Terrell Suggs, who has been on the physically unable to perform list, is expected to be activated this week, according to a report in the Baltimore Sun.
Insight: This doesn't mean Suggs will be playing this Sunday, or even next Sunday. The Ravens will likely take a cautious approach with their five-time Pro Bowler and stick to the schedule which was for a November return.
Description: Updating a previous report, an MRI revealed a complete tear of Ray Lewis' right triceps muscle. He's done for the season. Jay Glazer reported earlier that Ravens doctors believed Lewis had avoided a full tear of the triceps but the MRI revealed otherwise.
Insight: Baltimore also lost Lardarius Webb to a torn ACL this week and has been playing without Terrell Suggs all season. According to Jason Cole of Yahoo! Sports, there are several people who believe the loss of Lewis could be a positive for the Ravens. "Yes, Lewis is the emotional leader of the team, but there are plenty of people around the league who will tell you he has lost a step," Cole said.
Description: Linebacker Ray Lewis didn't fully tear his right triceps as the Ravens had originally feared but he is still likely to miss the rest of the 2012 season according to Jay Glazer from Fox Sports.
Insight: A devastating blow for the Ravens, who are now minus three key defensive starters in Lardarius Webb (torn ACL), Terrell Suggs (Achilles) and Lewis. Baltimore will try and pick up the pieces next week against 5-1 Houston.
Description: Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis may have torn his right triceps in Sunday's win over Dallas according to Jeff Darlington from the NFL Network.
Insight: Baltimore can't afford an injury to Lewis after losing cornerback Lardarius Webb to a torn ACL earlier in the day. The Ravens have also been without star defensive end Terrell Suggs all season. The beat-up Ravens head to Houston next week to take on the undefeated Texans.
Description: Ravens tailback Ray Rice had 90 yards from scrimmage in the first half (47 rushing, 43 receiving) on 12 touches, but once again didn't see the ball in the second half and finished with 106 total yards.
Insight: Rice punched in two touchdowns, but his week could have been much better if the Ravens had stuck to the ground game. Seventeen touches is not enough.
Description: Ravens cornerback Lardarius Webb left Sunday's game late in the first quarter with a knee injury. His return is questionable.
Insight: Losing their top cornerback could leave the Ravens vulnerable to the pass and the Cowboys have the tools to take advantage with Dez Bryant and Miles Austin.
Description: Ravens wideout Anquan Boldin has been the Ravens' top target over the past two weeks and has produced 13 receptions and 213 yards.
Insight: Defenses appear to be focusing on deep threat Torrey Smith and Boldin is roaming free over the middle. This trend could continue and Boldin should start to earn respect as a fantasy-worthy starter, particularly if he can start finding the end zone.
Description: Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco had a rough day in Week 5 against the Chiefs, throwing for 187 yards and an interception.
Insight: Flacco only completed 13 of his 27 throws. Though he may be top-10, the Ravens quarterback cannot be counted on as an elite fantasy signal-caller because he has performances like this too frequently.
Description: Ravens receiver Torrey Smith (ankle) fully participated in practice and should be fine to start in Week 5.
Insight: Smith has 12 catches for 224 yards and three touchdowns over his last two games and faces a Chiefs pass defense that has proven vulnerable at times.
Description: Ravens wideout Anquan Boldin had his best performance of 2012 Thursday against the Browns by catching nine passes for 131 yards.
Insight: Boldin came in with just 10 catches through three games but he showed Thursday why he's still someone who should be owned and utilized as a bye-week fill-in in PPR leagues.
Description: Four days after catching six passes for 127 yards and two touchdowns against New England following the death of his younger brother, Ravens receiver Torrey Smith stepped up again, catching six balls for 97 and a score Thursday against the Browns.
Insight: Smith had two catches in each of the first two weeks so he needed these last two performances to show fantasy owners that he's consistent enough to be trusted as a WR3 every week.
Description: Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco followed up a shredding off New England four days ago with 356 yards, a passing touchdown, a rushing touchdown against Cleveland Thursday.
Insight: Flacco has 1,269 yards through four weeks and is on pace to best his career high in passing yards by 1,454 yards. This was an important performance for the inconsistent Flacco to prove to fantasy owners that he's an every week starter.
Description: Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco sure looked like an elite quarterback in upending Tom Brady and the Patriots on Sunday night. Flacco threw for 382 yards and three touchdowns.
Insight: Flacco is second in the NFL to Giants quarterback Eli Manning with 913 yards passing and tied for fifth with six touchdown passes through three games.
Description: Baltimore receiver Torrey Smith overcame personal tragedy to post six catches for 127 yards and two scores in the Ravens' win over the Patriots Sunday night.
Insight: Smith's 19-year-old brother was killed in a motorcycle accident in Virginia on Saturday night and it was unclear if Smith would play Sunday. But he returned to the team and had his best game of the season under tough circumstances.
Description: Baltimore receiver Torrey Smith will start Sunday night's game against the Patriots less than 24 hours after the death of his younger brother.
Insight: Smith returned to the team late in the afternoon after spending most of the day with his family. New England's defense has improved greatly since the last time Smith faced them so he could be in for a bit of a rough fantasy day.
Description: The Balitmore Sun reports that Ravens wideout Torrey Smith has returned to the team after leaving to be with his family earlier in the day. Smith's brother died in a motorcycle accident this morning.
Insight: Smith is expected to be on the field when Baltimore hosts New England later tonight. Smith had three catches for 82 yards and a touchdown when he played against the Patriots in the playoffs last season.
Description: Balitmore receiver Torrey Smith has left the team to be with his family following the death of his younger brother. His status for Sunday night's game against New England is uncertain.
Insight: As Joe Flacco's primary deep threat, Smith has reeled in four catches for 108 yards so far this season. Tight end Dennis Pitta, the team's leading receiver a week ago in Philadelphia, could stand to see even more targets this week if Smith is unable to play.
Description: Ravens tight ends Dennis Pitta leads all tight ends in targets so far this season with 24 passes thrown his way which resulted in 13 receptions for 138 yards and a score.
Insight: The fact that Pitta has seen the ball more than Jimmy Graham, Rob Gronkowski or any other tight end is certainly surprising and bodes well for him as a fantasy contributor over the next few months if this level continues.
Description: Ravens tailback Ray Rice only has 26 carries in the first two games combined, but he's still managed to be a useful RB1.
Insight: Rice punched in two touchdowns in Week 1 and rushed for 99 yards and caught six passes for 53 yards in Week 2. The Ravens threw it 42 times Sunday against the Eagles but they may decide to feature Rice more after losing the game.
Description: Ravens wideout Torrey Smith has not made much of an impact in two games this season. He has just four catches.
Insight: Smith has basically turned in the same line in each of the first two games, catcing two for 57 in the first and two for 52 Sunday against Philadelphia. The second-year receiver is a big-play threat but he'll need to be more involved in the offense if he's going to break out this season.
Description: Ravens safety Ed Reed is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Philadelphia. He suffered a hamstring injury in the Monday night game against the Bengals.
Insight: Reed appeared to hurt the leg on his 34-yard interception return for a touchdown which gave the Ravens an insurmountable 34-13 lead. He didn't come back into the game, but they were safely ahead with very little time remaining. He'll be a key to keeping the Eagles passing game under control.
Description: Ravens tailback Ray Rice only had 10 carries in Monday night's win over Cincinnati but he still managed to score two touchdowns while picking up 68 rushing yards.
Insight: He also had three catches for 25 yards. Rice is arguably the NFL's most complete running back and he proved it again on Monday night. Look for Rice to have another terrific season in 2012.
Description: Balitmore QB Joe Flacco completed 21 of 29 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns Monday in a season-opening victory over the Bengals.
Insight: Flacco would have easily surpassed 300 yards passing had John Harbaugh left him in the game. Instead, Flacco was replaced by Tyrod Taylor early on in the fourth quarter with the Ravens winning by more than 20 points. Flacco seemed at ease in Baltimore's new no-huddle offense and it looks like he could be poised for his best fantasy season yet.
Description: Ravens tight ends Dennis Pitta and Ed Dickson are both listed as questionable for the Week 1 game with Cincinnati.
Insight: Pitta caught 40 balls for 405 yards and three touchdowns last season while splitting playing time. If both are out, it will hurt quarterback Joe Flacco's numbers. If only one plays, they could become fantasy-worthy.
Description: Ravens tight end Ed Dickson and fellow tight end Dennis Pitta told reporters that they are not sure of their status for Week 1.
Insight: The Ravens have two quality tight ends in Dickson and Pitta who combined to catch 94 balls for 933 yards and eight touchdowns last season. If both are out, it will hurt quarterback Joe Flacco's numbers. If only one plays, they could become fantasy-worthy.
Description: The Ravens cut former Colts quarterback Curtis Painter amongst a bevy of roster moves on Friday.
Insight: With Joe Flacco ahead of him on the depth chart, Painter never had a realistic chance to succeed in Baltimore so it's no surprise that they gave him the boot on cut day. Painter hasn't shown us much in his first three years of professional football (66.6 career QB rating) and we're guessing teams will be hesitant to sign him unless somebody gets injured. There's no fantasy upside here.
Description: Baltimore linebacker Terrell Suggs was moved to the physically unable to perform list on Monday. Suggs is still recovering from a torn Achilles.
Insight: This means Suggs will be out for at least the first six games of the 2012 campaign. The Ravens are still holding out hope that the 2011 Defensive Player of the Year will be able to suit up at some point before the end of the season.
Description: It appears that the Ravens will go with rookie Justin Tucker as their placekicker. Undrafted out of the University of Texas, Tucker didn't miss a kick in preseason.
Insight: He has a stronger leg than Billy Cundiff, going 2-for-2 from over 50 yards, where Cundiff was 1-for-6 last season. The Ravens offense finished 12th in scoring last season and figures to be better in 2012, making Tucker a fantasy-worthy asset.
Description: The Ravens have parted ways with Pro-Bowl kicker Billy Cundiff.
Insight: Cundiff had a nice run with Baltimore but unfortunately he'll probably be most remembered for shanking an easy 32-yard attempt that would have sent last season's AFC Championship game into overtime. With Cundiff gone, rookie Justin Tucker will now handle the kicking duties for the Ravens.
Description: Ravens backup strong safety Emanuel Cook broke his leg on Thursday night and will be gone for the season, according to coach John Harbaugh.
Insight: Fellow safety Sean Considine also suffered an injury (concussion) leaving the Ravens a bit thin at safety behind Ed Reed and Bernard Pollard. If either starter gets hurt, the Ravens could be vulnerable in the secondary.
Description: Ravens wideout Anquan Boldin caught three balls for 39 yards and a touchdown in Baltimore's 48-17 romp over Jacksonville.
Insight: Boldin has become the team's possession receiver with Torrey Smith the deep threat which will significantly limit Boldin's fantasy value in the upcoming season. Boldin caught 54 passes last year for 887 yards and just three scores, his lowest touchdown total since 2004.
Description: Ravens wideout Torrey Smith caught eight balls for 103 yards in Thursday night's route of Jacksonville and appears to have become quarterback Joe Flacco's No. 1 target ahead of Anquan Boldin.
Insight: Smith's final totals of 50 receptions for 841 yards and seven TDs were solid, but we expect much more from him in 2012-13. He's been dealing with a sprained ankle in preseason, but should get two weeks to recover before opening day and be ready for the opening whistle.
Description: Ravens running backs coach Wilbert Montgomery indicated that the team has no plans to reduce Ray Rice's touches this season, according to the Baltimore Sun.
Insight: Montgomery compared Rice to a new car, saying, " ... you don't put [a new car] in the driveway and just park it in the garage. You buy it, you drive it. If you wear the wheels off, you go out and get another one." The team signed Rice to a new contract in the offseason and it clearly plans on using him just as much and possibly more than last season, when he toted the rock 367 times from scrimmage.
Description: Ravens tight end Ed Dickson had an MRI on his right shoulder which showed no structural damage according to a report from Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun.
Insight: The Ravens have two quality tight ends in Dickson and Dennis Pitta and they combined to catch 94 balls for 933 yards and eight touchdowns last season. Should one of them take over a full-time role or get injured, the other could end up being a fantasy-worthy starter. Until that point they are both backup quality fantasy options.
Description: Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta is expected to miss most of training camp and the exhibition season, but should be back in time for Week 1 according to the team.
Insight: Pitta (40-405-3) stole fantasy value from Ed Dickson (54-528-5) in 2011 and this injury doesn't appear to change anything. Unless one of the two becomes the every down tight end, neither is a fantasy-worthy starter.
Description: According to Sports Illustrated's Peter King, the Ravens and franchise player Ray Rice have agreed to a multi-year contract. The pact barely beat the NFL's 4 p.m. ET deadline for franchise-tagged players to sign multi-year deals. According to the Baltimore Sun, Rice's deal is worth $40 million over five years, including $24 million guaranteed.
Insight: The guaranteed money is third most among running backs in the NFL behind Adrian Peterson and Chris Johnson. Rice's deal comes hours after the Bears inked a contract with another all-purpose back, Matt Forte. The contract is great news for fantasy owners who can now draft Rice in the top three without having to worry about potential holdouts or distractions.
Description: Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs (torn Achilles) had previously said he would be back this season, but most recently has waivered as to when he'll be back due to the slow pace of his rehab.
Insight: Those who hoped to get Baltimore's defense at a "discount" without Suggs on the field and then benefit by his early return come the fantasy playoffs, may not be able to use that strategy.
Description: Wide receiver Derrick Mason retired from the NFL on Monday.
Insight: And he did it as a member of the Baltimore Ravens, a team he played six seasons for between 2005-2010. Four of Mason's eight career 1,000-yard efforts came with the Ravens. He retires with 66 touchdowns on 943 receptions over his 15-year NFL career. Mason caught 19 balls for 170 yards last season in 12 games with the Jets and Texans.
Description: Baltimore Ravens newly acquired receiver Jacoby Jones could be used as both a punt and kickoff return man along with his duties as the team's No. 3 receiver.
Insight: The combination could allow Jones to be a low-end fantasy value receiver in leagues which accumulate punt and kick return yardage.
Description: According to a report from ESPN's Sal Paolantonio, the Ravens are unwilling to give Ray Rice "Adrian Peterson money." Paolantonio said a team official told him that the team won't give Rice the same type of contract that Chris Johnson received (about $30 million guaranteed) either.
Insight: This situation has the potential to get messy. No doubt Rice knows that running backs don't have a long life in the NFL, so he wants to get paid while he still can. However, holding out didn't work out so well for Chris Johnson last year, so hopefully Rice and the Ravens can get something worked out soon.
