--The Ravens will open their preseason schedule with two home games: against the Washington Redskins and the New York Jets. They finish out their preseason schedule at the Carolina Panthers and Atlanta Falcons.
The preseason opener against the Redskins continues a tradition of playing their regional rival. The Ravens' next game will mark the return of former Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan, now the Jets' head coach.
--General manager Ozzie Newsome acknowledged there is still a chance that the Ravens could sign free-agent offensive tackle Orlando Pace, who has since visited the Chicago Bears.
--The Ravens are "involved in some discussions" with cornerback Samari Rolle, Newsome said. The team cut Rolle last month after he requested to be released. Rolle's talk with Newsome and coach John Harbaugh last month "broke a lot of barriers," according to Newsome.
--Newsome said he is planning to return a phone call from fullback Lorenzo Neal, who is a free agent after one season with the Ravens. "I don't know what the nature of that call is about," Newsome said. "I know he did talk about what he would like to do when his football career is over. I don't know what his plans are."
--The Ravens' 2009 home opponents are: the three AFC North teams (Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and Cleveland), Chicago, Detroit, Denver, Kansas City and Indianapolis. Their road opponents are: the three AFC North teams (Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and Cleveland), Green Bay, Minnesota, San Diego, Oakland and New England.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "As a leader, you're always looking for the look in the man's eyes when he's on the cusp of getting an opportunity that could define his career. There was something in John's eyes that told me, if given the opportunity, he wouldn't disappoint. I can't elaborate any further." -- Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti on why he chose John Harbaugh as his coach last season.
