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It wasn't Ravens coach John Harbaugh's preference to have starting cornerback Lardarius Webb returning punts entering this offseason. His mindset probably didn't change after Webb agreed to a five-year, $50 million extension with a $10 million signing bonus and a $5 million option bonus.

Having Webb field punts was a risk before. Now, it has become a pricey proposition. The Ravens will try hard to find a replacement for Webb on returns, and it probably will come in the draft.

"You can’t sit there and play scared, so I don’t have a problem with [Webb returning],” Harbaugh said Wednesday, a day before Webb's deal. “But I would rather have a backup doing it? Yes. If there is another option that is a better player or takes your starting corner and takes him off the punt return, that’s even better."

Webb ranked 16th in the NFL in punt returns (10-yard average), returning one for a touchdown. The other two punt returners listed on last year's Ravens depth chart -- Chris Carr (Vikings) and Tom Zbikowski (Colts) -- signed elsewhere in free agency.

Baltimore brought in Ted Ginn Jr. for a free-agent visit but he re-signed with the 49ers. The Ravens were also linked to Eddie Royal before he joined the San Diego Chargers.

“We tried to do something with a free agent or two, and it didn’t work out, but that’s OK,” Harbaugh said. “We’ll move on to the next opportunity.”

That "next opportunity" means the draft. One returner to keep an eye on is Fresno State's Devon Wylie. Other top returners coming out of college are: Florida International's T.Y. Hilton, Alabama's Marquis Maze and Stanford's Chris Owusu.

Free agent officially kicks off at 4 p.m. Tuesday, so let's take a look at the three biggest needs for the Bengals:

1. Guard: The Bengals need to significantly upgrade both guard positions if they want to improve their running game. Both starters from last season -- Nate Livings and Bobbie Williams -- are free agents, along with backup Mike McGlynn. The best route for the Bengals to take is to find one starter in free agency and another in the draft. The Ravens' Ben Grubbs would be a great fit, but he will be expensive (but not as pricey as the Saints' Carl Nicks). A cheaper alternative (but a much more short-term option) is Steve Hutchinson, who was released by the Vikings on Saturday. The second-tier guards like the Panthers' Geoff Schwartz, the Titans' Jake Scott and the Texans' Mike Brisiel all have major question marks.

2. Wide receiver: Cincinnati found its big-play receiver in the draft last season, taking A.J. Green with the fourth overall pick. Now, the Bengals need to add a consistent No. 2 wide receiver, and they will look to free agency for that complimentary target to Green. Last season, Andy Dalton couldn't depend on Jerome Simpson and Andre Caldwell, who ran bad routes and dropped too many passes. Simpson and Caldwell are free agents and aren't high on the team's priority list. The Colts' Reggie Wayne would be the best choice because of his consistency and experience, but he is looking to go to an established championship contender. The Saints' Robert Meachem might be the top option with his speed and red-zone prowess. If the Bengals want a veteran possession-type receiver, they could try to lure the Patriots' Deion Branch to Cincinnati.

3. Cornerback: The Bengals will likely draft a cornerback in the early rounds as the eventual replacement to Nate Clements, but they need to address their depth at this position in free agency. Leon Hall is coming off a season-ending Achilles injury, and it's uncertain whether he will be ready when the regular season begins. As far as their own free-agent cornerbacks, the Bengals are not expected to re-sign Adam Jones, and have to make a decision on whether to bring back Kelly Jennings. A veteran backup like the Ravens' Chris Carr might interest the Bengals.

Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:

Peyton Hillis told the Cleveland Plain Dealer that he is willing to take a "hometown discount" to stay with the Browns, but the running back thinks the team wants him to test free agency, which begins March 13.

"I've always loved this city and I still do love it and I still want to play for the Cleveland Browns," Hillis told the paper. "I'm not sure who wants me there and who doesn't want me there. It's out of my hands at this point. They've said they might want to re-sign me. If I was this horrible person, if I wasn't tough and if I was that big of a mental case, why would they still want to sign me? No matter what happens, I think I proved again and again wherever I go I think I'll make a splash.''

Hillis denied an ESPN report that said he contemplated retirement and thought about joining the CIA. He also said he fired agent Kennard McGuire because he wasn't able to get anything done with the Browns.

Hensley's slant: What's the first rule of the CIA? Oh wait, that was "Fight Club." I get those two mixed up. As far as Hillis' future, he seems like he is willing to work with the Browns to return. For some reason, I get the feeling that he could end up in New England, where the Patriots have made a living off reclamation projects.

BENGALS: Getting the franchise tag is not good for your long-term future with the Bengals, who placed the tag on kicker Mike Nugent on Friday. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, the past three times the Bengals have used the franchise tag, the player has left the following year. The most recent was three years ago with kicker Shayne Graham. Hensley's slant: I believe Nugent will break this streak. He proved to be a reliable weapon for the Bengals last season, setting the team record for field goals (33). My guess is Cincinnati will reward him either this year or next with a long-term contract.

RAVENS: The Ravens cut cornerback Chris Carr and wide receiver Lee Evans on Friday. But did the team cut all ties with those high-priced veterans? Comcast SportsNet pointed out this quote from general manager Ozzie Newsome: "As we talked about when we informed Chris and Lee of these moves, this does not close the door on them coming back to the Ravens." Hensley's slant: Carr could still have value to the Ravens as the fourth cornerback, but only at a discounted price. I really can't see the Ravens bringing back Evans, who lost a step as well as all of his confidence last season.

STEELERS: The Steelers cut inside linebacker James Farrior on Friday, but replacing him won't be easy, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune Review's Scott Brown. "Farrior quarterbacked the defense for a decade, making on-field adjustments as skillfully as he plugged running lanes," Brown wrote. "He started all 154 games he played for the Steelers, made two Pro Bowls, earned team MVP honors in 2004 and served as a defensive captain for eight consecutive seasons." Hensley's slant: The release of Farrior was one that caught me off guard. I thought the Steelers would cut backup Larry Foote and keep Farrior. Instead, the Steelers did the reverse.

There were two roster moves made in the division, and neither come as a surprise. The Steelers released defensive end Aaron Smith (according to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter), and the Ravens cut cornerback Chris Carr (according to the NFL Network).

Both were based as much on performance as salary-cap ramifications. Smith, who is scheduled to make $2.1 million this year, has seen four of his past five seasons cut short by injury. Carr, whose 2012 salary was $3 million, was injured soon after signing four-year, $14 million deal (included $3.8 million signing bonus) this summer and never regained his starting spot.

What's next for the Steelers and Ravens?

The next to go in Pittsburgh is likely inside linebacker James Farrior, one of the top leaders on the Steelers defense. His agent indicated that the "percentages" aren't with the Steelers keeping Farrior. "He wanted to retire a PS [Pittsburgh Steeler] but he is healthy and ready [and] wants to play," agent Ralph Cindrich posted on Twitter. Farrior, 37, is scheduled to make $2.8 million in 2012, the final year of his deal.

The next to go in Baltimore is expected to be cornerback Domonique Foxworth, who has only played two games the past two seasons. The knee injury that put him on injured reserve the past two years could force him to retire at the age of 28. Foxworth declined to talk about the knee last month. Asked if it could stop him from ever playing again, he said, "That's a tough question." Foxworth, who is scheduled to make $5.6 million in 2012, could seek an injury settlement.

The AFC North is running a series where every position will be ranked and what could change at that position.

DEFENSIVE BACKS

1. STEELERS: Pittsburgh had the top-ranked pass defense, and it wasn't all about the pass rush this time. Actually, the pass rush was extremely inconsistent this season, so that No. 1 ranking is more of a reflection of the Steelers' secondary. Cornerback Ike Taylor and free safety Ryan Clark had career years. Taylor's season, though, was marred by a late-season decline that ended with him getting stiffed-armed by the Broncos' Demaryius Thomas on the touchdown that ended the Steelers' season. Clark had the best season of any safety in the division, which is saying a lot when Troy Polamalu and Ed Reed are in the AFC North. He finished second in the division with 100 tackles. Polamalu was solid, but didn't play up to his usual spectacular level. William Gay was a pleasant surprise, taking back the starting cornerback job that he lost in 2010. What could change: Gay is an unrestricted free agent, but it shouldn't take much to retain him. Look for rookie cornerbacks Cortez Allen and Curtis Brown to make more of an impact in their second seasons.

2. RAVENS: This group exceeded expectations, and did so in a surprising manner. Instead of starting Domonique Foxworth and Chris Carr at cornerback, the Ravens finished fourth in pass defense with Lardarius Webb and Cary Williams. Webb was the division's top cornerback, recording five interceptions and breaking up 20 passes (and that doesn't include three interceptions in the playoffs). Williams was a physical presence at corner. The biggest disappointment was Reed, who intercepted three passes -- his fewest in a season where he played more than 12 games. The Ravens' other safety, hard-hitting Bernard Pollard, provided more of an impact than Reed. First-round pick Jimmy Smith endured an up-and-down rookie season. What could change: Smith should take over for Williams as a starting cornerback this season. Foxworth is expected to get cut, and the same could happen to Carr. Both backup safeties, Tom Zbikowski and Haruki Nakamura, are free agents, but I suspect Nakamura will get re-signed.

3. BROWNS: Joe Haden showed signs of being a shutdown corner, even though he failed to make an interception. He held his own against some of the best receivers in the NFL, from Larry Fitzgerald to Brandon Marshall. His worst games came against Bengals wide receiver A.J. Green. While Haden is among the division's best cornerbacks, Sheldon Brown was the worst starting corner in the AFC North. Brown's biggest asset is the experience he provides to a young secondary. The defensive backfield was hurt by the loss of strong safety T.J. Ward, who missed the final 10 games with a foot injury. Teams took advantage of Ward's replacement, Usama Young. Free safety Mike Adams beat out Young for a starting job in training camp. Dimitri Patterson was a reliable nickelback, breaking up a dozen passes. What could change: The Browns might replace Adams, who is a free agent, and they could give rookie seventh-round pick Eric Hagg a shot at doing so. Cleveland is very interested in bringing Patterson back. It wouldn't be a surprise if Patterson starts in place of Brown.

Here's your game-day warm-up:

BALTIMORE -- Will Ray Lewis play today or will the Ravens linebacker miss his first game since 2007?

That's a big question heading into today's Bengals at Ravens game. There was a report that Lewis will be sidelined by a toe injury, but coach John Harbaugh said he wouldn't rule out Lewis because of his history of overcoming injuries. Lewis is officially questionable.

If Lewis can't play, the Ravens would go with Dannell Ellerbe. While the Ravens would miss Lewis' experience, Ellerbe has always had NFL starter talent but his work ethic has been a question mark. That would mean the Ravens' two starting inside linebackers (Ellerbe and Jameel McClain) are undrafted players.

Baltimore would have missed Lewis' leadership if this was a few years ago, but the Ravens are starting to rely on their next generation of leaders in Terrell Suggs and Haloti Ngata.

As far as ESPN's expert picks, all but one selector had the Ravens over the Bengals. They were split over whether the Browns would beat the visiting Jaguars.

Here are some storylines heading into today's AFC North games:

• BENGALS: Who replaces Leon Hall? Cincinnati is expected to go with Kelly Jennings, who has good speed but can struggle against bigger receivers. Adam Jones will likely be the third cornerback. Another possibility to replace Hall is Brandon Ghee, who was promoted from the practice squad. He was a third-round pick a year ago and could work himself into some major playing time.
• BROWNS: The offense would get a big boost if running back Montario Hardesty can return from a calf injury. He is considered a game-time decision. Hardesty, who has starter ability, is a major upgrade from marginal NFL talents in Chris Ogbonnaya and Thomas Clayton.
• RAVENS: Tom Zbikowski could get a chance to replace struggling David Reed on kickoff returns. The Ravens are looking for someone who will take care of the ball after watching Reed fumble three times in the past two weeks. Chris Carr is another option.
• STEELERS: The Steelers are at their bye with a 7-3 record, the same mark they had last year when they advanced to the Super Bowl. "I wouldn't necessarily say I'm pleased," head coach Mike Tomlin said of the record. "I'd be pleased if we were 10-0, but we're not. We are what we are."

Every morning, grab a cup of coffee and get your AFC North wake-up call here:

The Browns have made no commitment to Colt McCoy to be their starting quarterback beyond this season, team president Mike Holmgren said at Thursday's news conference.

"I know it's not healthy to change quarterbacks," Holmgren said via The Plain Dealer. "But you have to find that person. ... Colt is just a pup. He's getting banged around out there. He will play this season and ... we'll evaluate how he does at the end of the season. That's an important part of the equation."

McCoy has averaged 21.6 incompletions over his past three games. His 28.5 QBR is 23rd in the NFL, just above recently benched quarterbacks Donovan McNabb and Rex Grossman.

"[McCoy] is a rookie [actually, a second-year player] with a new coach, new signal-caller, new system," Holmgren said. "Are we committed to him? Absolutely. Does it guarantee him the starting position? I want him to do well. Everyone's rooting for him."

Hensley's slant: This is a major shift from April 2010, when McCoy said Holmgren compared him to Steve Young and Joe Montana because of his intangibles. This vote of no confidence comes after 13 up-and-down NFL starts for McCoy. One of the reasons why the Browns have failed to challenge for the AFC North title consistently is the lack of a franchise quarterback. Until they get one, Cleveland will always be chasing the Steelers and the Ravens.

• BENGALS: Right guard Bobbie Williams didn't hold back when he compared Andy Dalton to Carson Palmer, who was traded to the Raiders on Tuesday. “Just to be politically correct, Andy brings something that Carson doesn’t -- and I’m not knocking Carson -- a little bit more passion," Williams told the team's website. "I’m not saying Carson isn’t passionate, but Andy brings a little bit more.” Hensley's slant: There have always been questions about Palmer's leadership ability. In his defense, it can be hard to take control of a locker room that has the likes of Chad Ochocinco in it. Still, even as a rookie, Dalton is getting teammates to follow him.
• RAVENS: The Ravens' secondary got an unexpected surprise when first-round pick Jimmy Smith (high ankle sprain) and Chris Carr (hamstring) both returned to practice, according to MASNSports.com. Smith has been sidelined since the season opener , and Carr has missed the past two games. Three Ravens didn't practice Thursday: wide receiver Lee Evans (ankle), guard Ben Grubbs (toe) and linebacker Jarret Johnson (back). Hensley's slant: There really is no need to rush Smith and Carr back for Monday's game against Jacksonville rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert, who threw for 109 yards last Sunday in a loss to the Steelers. Baltimore needs both cornerbacks to be at full strength when the Ravens play at Pittsburgh on Nov. 6.
• STEELERS: Pittsburgh defensive tackle Ziggy Hood told The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette that if you get to Arizona quarterback Kevin Kolb, you stop wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald. Kolb has been sacked an average of 3.2 times per game, which is even more than Ben Roethlisberger (3.0). Hensley's slant: It also helps to have a guy who can cover Fitzgerald. Ike Taylor likely draws that assignment after just allowing his first touchdown. The Steelers can't afford to have flashbacks of Fitzgerald from that Super Bowl victory.

BALTIMORE -- The scariest part about the Baltimore Ravens' defense is that it doesn't fear anything.

The Ravens aren't afraid of blitzing on every play. They're not afraid of sending a safety or a nickelback after the quarterback. They're not afraid of leaving a cornerback one-on-one with a receiver.

After a couple of years of playing it safe, the Baltimore defense showed a national television audience and its former boss that the Ravens haven't just dusted off their old, aggressive game plan. They've expanded it.

Three defensive touchdowns in the Ravens' 34-17 victory over the New York Jets at M&T Bank Stadium came as the result of relentless pressure. Past Baltimore defenses prided themselves on leading the NFL in fewest yards given up or setting the record for fewest points allowed.

This Baltimore defense wants turnovers, and wants to turn them into touchdowns. The Ravens' defense outscored the Jets' offense 21-3. Actually, Baltimore's defense outscored its own offense.

So, how great can this defense become?

"We can be special," Ravens linebacker Terrell Suggs said. "It all depends on where we go from here."

Defenses in Baltimore are defined by championships, which means there is a ways to go before you can rank this group. All you can say is that Baltimore is on the right path.

The Ravens are relentless, and it started with the defense's first snap. Baltimore safety Ed Reed came unblocked and stripped Jets quarterback Mark Sanchez from the blind side, which led to Jameel McClain's 6-yard fumble return for a touchdown.

In the second quarter, defensive tackle Haloti Ngata crashed into Sanchez's back, forcing the ball loose and leading to a 26-yard fumble return by Jarret Johnson. In the third quarter, Suggs' pressure caused Sanchez to hurry a throw to the outside, where cornerback Lardarius Webb jumped in front of Santonio Holmes and ran back the interception 73 yards for a touchdown.

"It reminded me of the 2000 and 2006 defenses," said Jets coach Rex Ryan, who was on the Ravens' staff for both of those defenses. "They were coming after us."

This defense, though, accomplished something the defenses in 2000 (which set the NFL record for fewest points) and 2006 (which is the only Ravens defense that finished No. 1 in a season) never did -- score three touchdowns in one game. The 2000 team won Super Bowl XXXV.

It didn't matter that the special teams allowed a 107-yard kickoff return or that quarterback Joe Flacco had an interception returned for a score. What made the Baltimore defense's effort amazing was how it carried the team.

In 2000, the Ravens' defense remained strong through a five-game touchdown drought. On Sunday night, the defense didn't bend despite a 35½-minute drought for Flacco, who didn't complete a pass in the second or third quarters.

With the Ravens holding a 28-17 lead in the third quarter, Flacco fumbled to give the ball to the Jets at the Baltimore 27-yard line. On the next play, Webb once again showed there was no panic on defense when he delivered his interception return for a touchdown.

"Any defense that can create turnovers and score touchdowns is pretty much unstoppable," Ngata said.

This is a drastically different look from last season, when the Ravens had a more conservative approach under defensive coordinator Greg Mattison. They didn't give up many points (third-fewest in the NFL). But they didn't put much pressure on the quarterback (the 27 sacks were a franchise low).

When Mattison left to become the defensive coordinator at the University of Michigan, Baltimore promoted secondary coach Chuck Pagano, who said the Ravens would "wreak havoc" in his first news conference.

He has lived up to those words, especially against the Jets. According to ESPN Stats & Information, the Ravens blitzed at least one defensive back on 13 of Sanchez's 38 drop-backs. Only twice this season had a quarterback taken more snaps against blitzing defensive backs (Jay Cutler and Sam Bradford, both in Week 2).

Those blitzes resulted in nearly as many turnovers (two) as completions (three).

"He's not afraid of anything," linebacker Ray Lewis said of Pagano.

The real fear must be for quarterbacks when they watch the Ravens' defense get announced before the game. You get the sense that's what pitchers must have felt when they went against the Yankees' Murderers' Row in 1927. Out of the Ravens' tunnel comes Ngata. Then Suggs. Then Reed. And of course, Lewis.

What must quarterbacks think when they watch film of the Ravens hammering Sanchez, Ben Roethlisberger and Bradford?

"Get the ball out quick or you’re going to get hit," Suggs said with a laugh.

But quarterbacks aren't getting the ball out quickly enough. Last week in St. Louis, Baltimore recorded 11 quarterback hits. On Sunday night, 10 quarterback hits were delivered by seven Ravens players.

The performance was more special because it was against Ryan, the Ravens' defensive coordinator from 2005 to 2008.

"He created us," Johnson said. "Now he had to deal with us."

Baltimore's defense could become stronger after this week's bye with the return of two injured cornerbacks, rookie first-round pick Jimmy Smith and veteran Chris Carr.

"I do sense something special with this defense and with this team," Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh said. "I think there’s a spirit in this team that’s hard to describe and I wish I could put it into words for you. I saw it the first day the guys came back. We’ll see where it takes us."

Note: Harbaugh handed out game balls to Pagano; O.J. Brigance, the team's director of player development who celebrated his birthday last week while still battling ALS; and Pat Modell, the wife of former majority owner Art Modell. Pat Modell is seriously ill.

Veteran cornerback Chris Carr is inactive with a hamstring injury, making the Baltimore Ravens extremely depleted at cornerback against the New York Jets Sunday night.

Baltimore will start Lardarius Webb and Cary Williams at cornerback, but the Ravens don't have anyone proven after that. The Ravens' nickel back will either be rookie fifth-round pick Chykie Brown or recent practice squad player Danny Gorrer.

The Ravens are ranked No. 17 in pass defense.

A look at Friday's injury report and what it means:


BENGALS

Out: LB Dontay Moch (foot)

Doubtful: G Otis Hudson (knee)

Probable: DE Jonathan Fanene (knee), DE Robert Geathers (shoulder), S Jeromy Miles (groin), DT Pat Sims (elbow), S Gibril Wilson (knee)

Impact: Of all the issues going on with the Bengals, injuries aren't among them, especially with the return of Geathers. Cincinnati will have running back Cedric Benson in the lineup because there's been no ruling on his three-game suspension. Receiver Jerome Simpson returns to the starting lineup after a drug bust at his house last week. ... The Bills will be without cornerbacks Terrence McGee and Aaron Williams, which further depletes a thin secondary.

BROWNS

Questionable: CB Sheldon Brown (groin), LB Titus Brown (ankle), WR Josh Cribbs (groin), DB Eric Hagg (knee), WR Mohamed Massaquoi (ankle), OT Tony Pashos (ankle), OT Joe Thomas (knee)

Probable: RB Peyton Hillis (illness), LB Chris Gocong (groin), WR Carlton Mitchell (finger)

Impact: The Browns will receive a boost with Pashos starting at right tackle for the first time this season. Pashos is expected to play barring a setback, coach Pat Shurmur said. Cribbs has improved since last week and should go back to handling returns. Of all the questionable players, only Hagg and Titus Brown aren't projected to play.

RAVENS

Out: WR Lee Evans (ankle), S Haruki Nakamura (knee), WR David Reed (shoulder), CB Jimmy Smith (ankle)

Doubtful: LB Dannell Ellerbe (thigh)

Questionable: CB Chris Carr (hamstring), G Ben Grubbs (toe)

Probable: C Matt Birk (knee), DE Cory Redding (toe)

Impact: There is increasing concern at cornerback especially if Carr can't play. He didn't practice Friday, which might indicate a setback. Other than starters Cary Williams and Lardarius Webb, the only other cornerbacks on the roster are rookie fifth-round pick Chykie Brown and recent practice squad player Danny Gorrer. With Evans out, rookie second-round pick Torrey Smith will make his second straight start. He will likely be covered by Jets conerback Antonio Cromartie, who is probable. Grubbs didn't practice Friday after being limited Thursday, which likely means Andre Gurode will start again at left guard. ... Jets center Nick Mangold is questionable.

STEELERS

Out: RG Doug Legursky (shoulder), LT Jonathan Scott (ankle), DE Brett Keisel (knee)

Questionable: LB Chris Carter (hamstring)

Probable: WR Arnaz Battle (knee), DT Steve McLendon (illness), WR Mike Wallace (ribs)

Impact: With two starting offensive linemen out, Ramon Foster will start at right guard and Trai Essex will step in at left tackle. Foster has potential and there might not be much of a drop-off from Legursky. Essex can't do much worse than Scott, who has struggled all season. It'll be interesting to see how this patched-up line holds up against a Texans pass rush that is led by Mario Williams. Ziggy Hood will start his second straight game in place of Keisel. ... Texans receiver Andre Johnson (knee and toe) is probable after being limited in practice the past two days. Running back Arian Foster (probable, hamstring) is expected to have a full workload after missing the last game, coach Gary Kubiak said. Struggling cornerback Kareem Jackson is questionable.

Three things to watch for in Baltimore's preseason game against visiting Washington on Thursday night. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET. The game will be televised on ESPN.

Joe Flacco's efficiency: Flacco has been decent this preseason. But he's yet to have that dominating performance we've seen from other top quarterbacks. Flacco has missed some throws he usually makes. Some of the blame certainly goes to the offensive line. The pass protection has been inconsistent, which is why the team signed former Pro Bowl offensive tackle Bryant McKinnie this week. Still, the Ravens would like to see Flacco put together a great half or three quarters of football in Thursday's dress rehearsal game.

Secondary position battles: The Ravens are a veteran team without many position battles. But there are some spots still to be determined in the secondary. The biggest is the strong safety position. Bernard Pollard and Tom Zbikowski are having a healthy competition that could go down to the wire. Haruki Nakamura is also in the mix. Young corner Cary Williams had a great training camp and has the edge at cornerback. But experienced veterans such as Chris Carr, Domonique Foxworth and Lardarius Webb are battling for playing time. So Williams can't rest easy.

Development of receiver Lee Evans: Baltimore's newest acquisition at receiver had a successful debut last week against the Kansas City Chiefs. Evans, who was acquired in a trade with the Buffalo Bills, tied for the team lead with three receptions for 68 yards. Evans brings much-needed deep speed to Baltimore's offense. He is quickly developing a rapport with Flacco, who will need Evans this season.

OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- How close are the Baltimore Ravens?

Consider this: For three consecutive years, they were eliminated in the postseason by the eventual AFC champions.

That is why the Ravens' mindset is all about getting over the hump in 2011. Since 2008, Baltimore has fallen a step or two short of making a Super Bowl run. A pair of playoff losses to the rival Pittsburgh Steelers and one to the Indianapolis Colts have overshadowed an otherwise stellar three-year period.

This season, the Ravens have another good team with high expectations. Baltimore should be in the playoff mix again, barring significant injuries. But it probably will come down to whether the Ravens can beat other title contenders -- like Pittsburgh -- in big games.

"The Steelers are one of the best teams in the league, and we're right there behind them," Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti said this week in a conference call with season-ticket holders. "Our goal is to get there. We understand that. It's a high bar having them in our division like the Orioles have had the Yankees and the Red Sox in their division for 30 years. We'd rather have it no other way. It's just the way it is."

THREE HOT ISSUES

1. Will Joe Flacco take the next step? If this week was any indication, Flacco is easily the most discussed athlete in Baltimore this summer. Nearly every time I turned on the radio, Flacco was being analyzed or compared with other quarterbacks.

The "Bash Flacco" bandwagon started in the offseason, when Steelers linebacker LaMarr Woodley and former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Dhani Jones criticized Flacco. It hasn't stopped since.

Flacco has responded by showing a newfound edge. The fourth-year quarterback has also become a more vocal leader.

Although his stats have steadily improved, Flacco's postseason performances have not. That's where he needs to take the next step. Flacco is 4-3 in the playoffs, but played well in only one of those games -- a wild-card victory over the Kansas City Chiefs last January.

2. What to do on the offensive line? There are no easy answers for Baltimore's offensive line. The tackle spots are the biggest problems.

Oniel Cousins has not proved to be the answer at right tackle. Now, the Ravens are experimenting with rookie third-round draft pick Jah Reid to see if he's ready. Reid is expected to get his first NFL start Friday night against the Chiefs.

Former first-round pick Michael Oher was a stellar right tackle as a rookie. But the Ravens moved Oher to left tackle out of necessity in 2010, with mixed results. Baltimore hopes Oher improves in 2011.

Starting guard Marshal Yanda has been dealing with back spasms but could return as early as next week. He's a candidate for right tackle if things don't go well for Reid. Veteran center Matt Birk is out following knee surgery but is expected to be ready for the regular-season opener against Pittsburgh.

Baltimore’s offensive line is a hodgepodge group. But the Ravens’ goal is to have clarity by their regular-season opener on Sept. 11.

"We're going to try to work out the best five in some combination," Ravens offensive coordinator Cam Cameron said this week. "It may not be ideal, but it's probably our best alternative."

3. Is the defense improved? Baltimore’s defense was ranked No. 10 in the NFL last season. A top-10 ranking is nothing to sneeze at. But the bar for the Ravens' defense is higher.

A leaky secondary and a struggling pass rush were Baltimore's two issues in 2010. Both hurt the Ravens' ability to close out games in the fourth quarter.

Baltimore invested a first-round pick in former Colorado cornerback Jimmy Smith. He's big, fast and physical. The Ravens haven't had a corner with all of those attributes since former Pro Bowler Chris McAlister.

Also keep an eye on Cary Williams, another big corner who had a good training camp. Williams began working with the first team this week.

"When they prance out there, it's very comforting," Ravens defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano said of Smith and Williams. "You've got two 6-1, 6-2 guys out there with long arms and guys that can run. It makes it really difficult. When you play tight coverage, it forces the quarterback to put it in tight windows and makes it really hard for the receivers to get off the line."

Pass rush is the biggest lingering issue. The Ravens recorded just 27 sacks in 16 games last season. They didn't add any significant help getting to the quarterback in the draft or free agency.

Pro Bowl linebacker/defensive end Terrell Suggs (11 sacks in 2010) will do his part. The situation gets murky after that.

Second-year linebacker Sergio Kindle may be an option. He was Baltimore’s top draft pick in 2010 but suffered a fractured skull and missed his entire rookie season.

BIGGEST SURPRISE

Rookie receiver Tandon Doss consistently made plays in practice this week. By all accounts, he did the same throughout camp.

Doss has really good hands. He made tough and routine catches over defenders. Speed was an issue, according to college scouting reports. But Doss was quicker and a little faster than I expected.

BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT

The Ravens had high hopes for Cousins. Baltimore anticipated the fourth-year lineman could solidify the right tackle spot this season. But after a full training camp and one preseason game, Cousins failed to step up to the task.

Cousins allowed two sacks in Baltimore’s preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. The coaching staff moved Cousins to right guard this week and hopes he can provide depth there.

OBSERVATION DECK

• Keep an eye on the developing chemistry between Flacco and new receiver Lee Evans. Baltimore recently acquired Evans in a trade with the Buffalo Bills. The timing was off in their first full week together. Flacco is still getting used to Evans’ speed and missed him on several throws in practice. Evans told the AFC North blog this week he’s confident they will get on the same page. Evans makes his Ravens debut Friday night against Kansas City.
• My early impression on Reid is that he looks the part at right tackle, but he's still very raw. At times, Reid still seemed like his head was spinning in practice, working with the starters. Strength and size are Reid's biggest assets. But he still needs to play faster and improve his footwork. You also have to consider that Reid didn't get any offseason work or minicamps because of the NFL lockout. Now the Ravens are hoping the third-round pick can earn a job with the starters two weeks into the preseason.
• Cameron says new Ravens fullback Vonta Leach reminds him a lot of former fullback Lorenzo Neal. We agree with the comparison. Leach is well-built and very physical. He will provide a good thump at the line of scrimmage that the Ravens were lacking last season. Leach, who went to the Pro Bowl last season, will also help with pass protection.
• I’ve been impressed with rookie quarterback Tyrod Taylor. He consistently made plays in practice this week and showed promise in Baltimore’s first preseason game. The Ravens are high on the sixth-round pick. Taylor will make the team. But is Baltimore comfortable enough to go into the season with a rookie as the No. 2 quarterback?
• Another player to look out for is Bernard Pollard. He is a big safety who is very physical. Pollard fits well with Baltimore’s defense. Free safety Ed Reed covers a lot of ground in the secondary. That allows Pollard to fly around and hit people, which is what he does best.
• The Ravens should be improved in press coverage this year. Smith and Williams are similar in size and showed good jams at the line of scrimmage this week. Previously, Baltimore gave up a lot of size to receivers. But that won’t be the case when Smith and Williams are on the field.
• Baltimore is suddenly very deep at corner. In addition to Smith and Williams, the Ravens have Lardarius Webb, Chris Carr and Domonique Foxworth, who is coming off ACL surgery. The latter three have starting NFL experience but could begin the year as backups.

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Readiness factor: The Ravens don't have any major issues. The personnel and offensive and defensive schemes are pretty much the same, with the exception of new defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano's adding some wrinkles. Baltimore's roster is already stacked, and the team will focus primarily on taking care of its own (Haloti Ngata, Marshal Yanda) in free agency before signing a few outside players. If the Ravens had to line up next week and play a game, they could.

Biggest challenge: The Ravens-Steelers rivalry is usually reserved for later in the season, but Baltimore will host a rare Week 1 showdown against its biggest rival -- and it comes after a lengthy lockout. Pittsburgh has won most of the key games in this series the past few years, including the past two playoff meetings. Pressure is mounting on the Ravens to start winning again in this rivalry, and they have to do it with little time to prepare for the Steelers this summer.

Competition at right tackle: Despite a veteran roster, Baltimore's right tackle spot is wide open. It was a revolving door last season and one of the major reasons the Ravens struggled with pass protection. This year Baltimore has a rookie draft pick (Jah Reid) and several holdovers (Oniel Cousins, Ramon Harewood) competing for a key spot. You also can't rule out adding another tackle to the mix in free agency.

Key players without contracts for 2011: Yanda, Baltimore's starting guard, is the biggest name without a contract. Yanda will test the market, but the Ravens also will make a strong push to re-sign the versatile lineman. Cornerbacks Chris Carr and Josh Wilson, who both started last season, also will garner interest. Look for the Ravens to bring back the cheaper of the two players, with rookie Jimmy Smith, Lardarius Webb and Domonique Foxworth listed as possible starters. Former starting left tackle Jared Gaither also is a free agent, and Baltimore is expected to part ways with him after a tumultuous and injury-filled 2010 season.

Here are the most interesting stories Thursday in the AFC North:

• The attorneys for Cincinnati Bengals running back Cedric Benson says they will fight the assault charge and are willing to explain the situation to interested teams.

Morning take: Unfortunately for Benson, time is not on his side. Free agency is set to begin soon, and teams like the Bengals will have to decide whether to invest millions in Benson with a legal case still pending.

• Is Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger comparable to Peyton Manning of the Indianapolis Colts?

Morning take: Not in terms of numbers and quarterbacking styles. Manning is very conventional, while Roethlisberger plays a backyard brand of football. But both are effective and won three combined Super Bowls.

• Baltimore Ravens corner and pending free agent Chris Carr wants a starting role if he returns.

Morning take: Right now there's a three-way battle for two slots between Jimmy Smith, Lardarius Webb and Domonique Foxworth, who are all under contract. If Carr wants to start again he may have to look elsewhere in free agency.

• The Cleveland Browns hired former tight end Aaron Shea to be the team's director of player engagement.

Morning take: Shea replaces longtime Browns employee Jerry Butler, who did a commendable job in that role. Cleveland has made a lot of changes in the second year under president Mike Holmgren.

Here are the most interesting stories Monday in the AFC North:

• Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Adam Jones described his recent arrest for disorderly conduct as "ridiculous."

Morning take: Eventually, all the facts will come out and prove if Jones is correct. But Jones continues to put himself in bad spots, while the Bengals are counting on him in 2011.

• Did the image of Pittsburgh Steelers receiver Hines Ward take a major hit after being charged recently for driving under the influence?

Morning take: Similar to Jones' situation, it's safer to wait until all the facts are presented. Ward's rep also claims Ward is innocent of the charges. So time will tell who is right.

• It will be up to the Cleveland Browns' coaching staff to earn the trust of the players once the lockout ends.

Morning take: This will be a major challenge for the Browns and rookie head coach Pat Shurmur. Not only is time very limited to learn a new offense and defense. But on the flipside, the Browns have to be very careful not to push players too hard early, which could result in injuries.

• Which free-agent cornerback would you keep: Josh Wilson, Chris Carr or Fabian Washington?

Morning take: I think Wilson is a slightly better player than Carr, but Carr could come cheaper. Carr also provides solid leadership in the locker room for the Ravens.