PRESEASON POWER RANKINGS

NO. 5

BALTIMORE RAVENS

Though we think that the Ravens -- with games against the Jets, Patriots, Colts, Chargers, and the annual home-and-home with the Bengals and Steelers -- will be hard pressed to duplicate last season's improbable 13-3 regular-season mark, the Ravens remain one of the best teams in the NFL.  With a still-stifling defense and an improving offense, the Ravens could win fewer games during the regular season, but have better luck in the playoffs.

Last year's one-and-out against the Colts was a major disappointment, and it prompted the franchise to finally quit waiting for tailback Jamal Lewis to regain a form that he'll never find.  Instead, the Ravens picked up Willis McGahee from the Bills, a one-time first-rounder with a lot less mileage on the tires.

The biggest question mark, however, is the ability of aging quarterback Steve McNair to remain healthy.  If he gets hurt, the alternative is (gulp) Kyle Boller.  In our view, it would be wise for the Ravens to bring in Byron Leftwich, whom the team hoped to snag in 2003, the same year in which the Ravens traded back into round one to get Boller.

If McNair can stay healthy, the Ravens have a chance to finish the job that the team started last year.  But that's a big if, and we think that the Ravens should have a solid plan in place in the event that McNair gets dinged.

Key departures:  LB Adalius Thomas, FB Ovie Mughelli, DT Aubrayo Franklin, OT Tony Pashos, RB Jamal Lewis.

Key arrivals:  RB Willis McGahee.

Draft pick most likely to make an impact:  OT Jared Gaither.

Coach's current job security:  Three years.