Baltimore Make-Over Taking Shape
By "Kirsten Quincy Adams"

Pre-Season 2113 (Baltimore, MD) - 'The rebuilding of the Ravens is on schedule,' stated a satisfied GM Mark Thul. 'We've elevated the general talent level of the team, and the future looks much brighter than it did twelve months ago.'

The bulk of the offense that sputtered last year remains, but a season of growth should yield increased results. They are led by second-year QB Donnell Belfatto. Last season was a steep learning curve, as rookies aren't treated too kindly in this league. Still, he showed he belonged and helped the team improve their win total from the previous year.

Veteran WR Jamie Elizondo was granted his request and traded to a contender, but the young receiving corp is shaping up nicely. New-comer Jackson Grimsley and rookie Cameron McJulien bring an athleticism that was sorely needed at the position.

The offensive line suffered a big hit when Thul traded stalwart Gary Renee last season, but this year it shapes up as an average, albeit unspectacular, unit. Recently acquired Jim Vanhorse is expected to help with backside protection.

The big gains have been on the defensive side of the ball. The defensive line was in shambles when Thul took over, and it now shapes up as having a bright future.

'We now have five young guys that I'm anticipating will develop well,' Thul stated. 'Only our best defensive line starter from last year is still with us, and I expect Perry will help shore up our pathetic run defense.'

Free Agent signee Quinn Perry jumped from the dynasty driven Bills when big money was offered. 'I loved my time with the Bills. They are a classy organization that just ran out of cap space to keep me,' said Perry. 'Baltimore is an exciting move for me. I get to be the anchor of a line that has a lot of youthful talent.'

Linebacker Junior Bennett is also excited. 'Having a guy like Perry on the line is such a relief. Offensive linemen won't get a free run at the linebackers anymore.'

Adding linebacker Anthony Hyche, brought in as part of the Elizondo trade, will also solidify the interior of the defense.

Finally, the Ravens expect huge things out of a secondary that is starting to find its place. Safety Mark Moxley is priming himself for a huge year. 'I've always had the label of big-time player, but I'm feeling ready to explode on this league,' growled a confident Moxley.

Only time will tell how things turn out, but a .500 season is truly not out of the question. With a few breaks, they might even contend for the playoffs in the always tough AFC East.