TRESTMAN TO RETURN TO RAVENS

OWINGS MILLS, Md. – Ravens owner Steve Bisciotti doesn’t think wholesale changes are needed after enduring one of the most disappointing seasons in franchise history.

Furthermore, Bisciotti is a firm proponent of continuity and he is confident the Ravens have the coaches and players in place to bounce back from their 5-11 record.

Baltimore placed 20 players on injured reserve throughout the season, including starting quarterback Joe Flacco, running back Justin Forsett and wide receiver Steve Smith.

Despite the depleted roster, the Ravens were competitive – nine of their losses were decided by eight points or fewer.

“The close losses piled up,” Bisciotti said at the team’s season-ending news conference.

“We had a bunch of heartbreaking losses this year. I don’t think a whole lot has to be done. The one thing I’m proud of is that we all view continuity as a strength.

“Continuity doesn’t stem from laziness. It comes from confidence. I have a lot of faith we will get it all straightened out. I hope we don’t have as many injuries.”

Ravens coach John Harbaugh confirmed that almost all of his coaching staff will return, including offensive co-ordinator Marc Trestman and defensive co-ordinator Dean Pees.

The one exception is linebackers coach Ted Monachino, who was hired as the Colts new defensive co-ordinator.

“We’ll certainly change how we do things, how we approach things and things like that,” Harbaugh said. “The same guys will be in place and I’m excited to work with them.”

(Associated Press)