The Baltimore Ravens are close to being true NFL contenders

As the title states, the Ravens are close, but they aren't quite close enough. After the moves being made in free agency, a lot of Ravens fans feel like a playoff appearance is a given. But there are still holes to be filled, notably, play-makers all over the defense, and stability on the offensive line.

Add the fact Joe Flacco is coming off an ACL tear and Baltimore finds themselves with more questions than answers.

The Ravens have made moves and this cannot be understated. John Pagano affirms Eric Weddle being his extension on the field. Weddle's football acumen will allow Dean Pees to be more multiple in his coverages. The next step in the secondary, and to an extent in the linebacking corp is to add players with range and play making ability. In the first round, Vernon Hargreaves would be a hand in glove fit. He possesses the ability to play multiple coverages and his on ball production only reiterates the fact that he is a playmaker. He will also be able to play the slot. Hargreaves, Jimmy Smith, Shareece Wright, Weddle and Lardarius Webb takes the secondary from a weak spot to a strong one.

Myles Jack and Joey Bosa both add coverage ability and pass rush versatility respectively. Jack's speed would be the perfect complement to C.J Mosley's instincts. Boss brings enough versatility to be similar to Pernell Mcphee, though his ability to rush from the nine technique can be questioned.

The offensive line should be adressed in rounds two and beyond. Cody Whitehair is a punishing guard who will help in the run game, if the Ravens don't feel comfortable with Ryan Jensen or John Urshel. Which now brings us to Eugene Monroe. Let's get one thing straight. Monroe is a good player. He has struggled with injuries but anyone not named Laremy Tunsil will not be as steady in their subsequent years. If Monroe cannot be upgraded on, then he should not be replaced. Developmental tackles like Shon Coleman that are likely better in pass protection the James Hurst should be the players that are targeted.

The Ravens are close but not quite there yet. Fans should have a clearer picture after the draft. However, is hard to not be excited at this moment.