Shonn Greene

It was after another long and grueling training camp practice when veteran running back Justin Forsett stepped in the middle of the Ravens’ huddle and talked about leaving a legacy.

Never mind that Forsett was on his fifth team in seven seasons. Months earlier, the 29-year-old was released by the Jacksonville Jaguars, as close to NFL purgatory as it gets. The outside perception was that he was a place holder for the Ravens until Ray Rice returned from his initial two-game suspension.

But that day, surrounded by Ravens players, coaches and staff members, Forsett spoke about not just collecting a paycheck but having an impact. He talked about attacking every practice like you’re...