Billick 'Optimism' On Ravens Upcoming Season
posted 7:37 pm Fri July 27, 2007 - OWINGS MILLS, Md.
When the Baltimore Ravens gather Monday for the first practice of training camp, they will carry an attitude befitting a team coming off the best record in franchise history.
This time last year the Ravens were coming off a 6 & 10 season and a lot to prove. Now, with a 13 & 3 season behind them, coach Brian Billick says the fans and the players have higher expectations.
The defense is returning 10 of 11 starters and all four of its top reserves. The offense features a polished McNair, new running back Willie McGahee and what Billick says is the deepest offensive line he's had in Baltimore.
One of the main objectives of the camp will be to get McGahee acclimated. There's also the matter of naming a third-string quarterback: Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith or Drew Olson, who is coming off an exceptional season in NFL Europa.
Also the Baltimore Ravens have agreed to contracts with first-round draft pick Ben Grubbs and fourth-round selection Le'Ron McClain.
The deals ensure that all eight draft picks will be under contract when the Ravens report to training camp Sunday in Westminster, Maryland.
Grubbs, an offensive lineman from Auburn, agreed to a five-year contract with a maximum value of $11 million if he reaches every incentive clause. He was the 29th overall selection in the draft.
McClain was a standout fullback at Alabama. He agreed to a three-year pact.
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