Training Camp Preview: Top Position Battles, Areas Of Concern

Nov 10, 2013; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens offensive tackle Eugene Monroe (60) is introduced prior to the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Welcome to lunchtime links, where we round up all the latest Ravens news from around the web for your convenient consumption.  Today we bring you the top position battles and areas of concern in a training camp preview, John Simon’s growth, and why a full offseason may make a difference for Eugene Monroe.

Shehan Peiris has the top position battles to watch in training camp.  We are paying particular attention to the running back and backup quarterback competitions. Bernard Pierce has a lot to prove and has some quality depth behind him competing for snaps.  It will be interesting to see how long his leash will be as a starter, and whether or not the Ravens will give up on Tyrod Taylor this year.

Jason Marcum tells us the biggest areas of concern heading into training camp.  We are still waiting on a Ray Rice decision, which is ludicrous.   Surely the league has enough information to make a decision at this point.  Marcum points out the battle for right tackle and third cornerback as well.  It would seem that the team has enough depth to spur a good competition at corner, but right tackle is a bit shallow right now if Ricky Wagner doesn’t pan out.

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Aaron Wilson has a feature on outside linebacker John Simon, who proclaims himself to be bigger, faster, and better in coverage this year.  Simon played sparingly in his rookie season, garnering a mere four tackles in seven games.  In college he was mainly used as a pass rusher and run stuffer, so he admittedly had a lot to learn.

Simon is unlikely to find a ton of playing time this season as he is currently fifth on the depth chart, but it gives him time to learn and prepare for a future ripe with opportunity.  After all, current starters Elvis Dumervil and Terrell Suggs are both on the wrong side of 30.

Wilson also believes that a full offseason could make a difference for Eugene Monroe.  We wholeheartedly agree and have said as much in the past.  Any player benefits from a full offseason with a new team and Monroe should only get better this coming year.  He is still young and is a sure bet to continue his dominant play at what is a critical position.

What are you most interested to see in training camp?  What position battles will you be watching closely?