The players to watch for Thursday night.

The Ravens are playing their first preseason game this Thursday versus the Carolina Panthers. This game is significant only to those paying attention to the depth at each position on the roster. Most do not expect to see a championship performance by the first team offense/defense as they won’t play beyond the first quarter.
Below are a few players to keep an eye on:

• Tom Zbikowski- By the looks of things Ed Reed will not be returning in the near future so the free safety battle is a crucial one in this training camp. Zbikowski started four games at free safety on this defense last season and grabbed two interceptions in the process. He worked hard during the offseason to improve his already above average speed and quickness. His performance and effectiveness in the defensive backfield will be monitored as he competes with veteran safety Ken Hamlin for a starting position during the regular season.

• Dannell Ellerbe, Tavares Gooden and Jameel Mcclain- To the surprise of many Jameel Mcclain has started with the first team in several training camp practices this year. This move is a testament of the faith the coaching staff in his ability to play inside as well as outside linebacker. The battle is not a two man battle despite Gooden starting next to Ray Lewis in the first couple week and Ellerbe starting in both playoff games even after Gooden returned from his injury. Expect each of these men to get as many reps as possible in this game.

• Billy Cundiff and Shayne Graham are both aiming for the sole kicker position on the roster. It's pretty fair to assume the Ravens won't do as they did during the 2008 season and keep two kickers on the roster. There will be a winner and a “not winner” (not necessarily a loser). However in this first game they will probably alternate so the two can be compared in the same game, in the same conditions.

• Second year defensive lineman Paul Kruger has converted from outside linebacker to 3-4 defensive end. He gained some weight so his body could effectively perform at his new position and has performed moderately well in the 1-on-1 drills in training camp. He will be watched as he takes the field probably with the second team to rush the opposing quarterback, who may possibly be rookie Jimmy Clausen.

Fabian Washington is an intriguing player coming back this year from a season ending injury ACL tear but was exclude from the list above because there is a serious likelihood that he will not see any action in this first game as trainers and coaches encourage a slow comeback. He has been practicing only once-a-day during training camp so he not quite physically ready for game action. Expect him back in action toward the end of training camp.