](https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/baltimore-ravens-the-lounge/id1142013759 "Subscribe To The Lounge Podcast")"I would have to say since our Super Bowl year and the year before, I think this is the best we've looked since then," Suggs said.

A year ago, at about this time, the Ravens opened the preseason with a roster talented enough to be Sports Illustrated's pick as Super Bowl winner. Injuries largely derailed that projection, but with those seemingly behind the Ravens now, the talent is still there – and more.

Baltimore didn't have major losses in free agency (guard Kelechi Osemele led the list), and added free agent safety Eric Weddle, wide receiver Mike Wallace and tight end Benjamin Watson. The Ravens have highly-touted rookies joining a strong sophomore class that got a lot of experience last year.

Suggs said the purpose of training camp has been to "get rid of last year's team."

"It was terrible [last year]," Suggs said. "We have to leave it back there and be the Ravens that we know, we're supposed to be and we're accustomed to being. The standard has been set here. That's definitely been the No. 1 thing on this list."

Bringing the Ravens back to that standard will still largely rest on the shoulders of Suggs and Smith. It remains to be seen how high a level Suggs and Smith can play with both coming off Achilles injuries and being in the twilight years of their careers. They are both passionate about proving they can still do the job.

What cannot be disputed is their mere presence elevates the team in more ways than* *can be counted. The high energy, the attitude, the comedic relief they bring is infectious.

"They are definitely at the core of this team," Head Coach John Harbaugh said. "They're the leaders and they're the playmakers. They're the guys that make the difference and they've been doing it for years and years. And they still have what it takes to be those guys again.