ExtremeRavens

Ravens coach John Harbaugh joked on Monday that he finally decided rookie Tyler Loop would be the team’s starting kicker this season when he was asked about it following Saturday night’s preseason win over the Dallas Cowboys. In earnest, Baltimore knew months earlier after a 2 1/2-hour dinner at a Tucson, Arizona, restaurant that included an endless supply of Pepsi and a few tables being rearranged. That’s when Loop convinced senior special teams coach and soda junkie Randy Brown, who took three different west coast trips to meet with the Arizona standout, that he was the right man for the job. “He explained to me his process and it was intricate,” Brown said Monday, speaking with reporters for the first time since Baltimore used a sixth-round pick in April on Loop, the first kicker in the organization’s 30-year history to be drafted. Among the things that Brown — who is entering his 18th season with the Ravens and has worked with Justin Tucker, Billy Cundiff and Matt Stover, among others — was looking for was someone that has a strong leg, is tough mentally and kicks a straight ball. He also wanted to know the specifics of Loop’s process, from how he practices to how many kicks he tries a day to his lifting schedule to his sleeping and eating schedule, as well as his routine on game days. In more detail, he also needed to hear how Loop sees his target, how far back he stands and how many inches his plant foot is from the football. Small details matter significantly, especially with NFL footballs also being different than college footballs. In the NCAA, balls are between 10 1/2 and 11 1/2 inches long with a long circumference of 27.75 inches and short circumference of 20.75. NFL footballs are between 11 and 11 1/4 inches with a long circumference of 28 to 28 1/2 inches and a short circumference of 21 to 21 1/4 inches. That means each has a different sweet spot, different swing plane and different spot to plant. “There’s a spot on the football where you have to kick ball and he knew exactly where that spot was on your foot, and you do it by which lace you want to hit the football on,” Brown said. “The process is, ‘How am I gonna make sure that that spot on my foot hits one inch below the middle of the football, which is our sweet spot, depending on the different size of the football?'” There were other complications to navigate as well. Tucker, a Ravens legend and the most accurate kicker in NFL history, was being investigated by the NFL over allegations of sexual misconduct from more than 15 massage therapists from Baltimore-area spas and still on the team. Nine days after selecting Loop, however, Baltimore released Tucker, who was later suspended 10 weeks by the league for violating its personal conduct policy. A lengthy dinner convinced Ravens senior special teams coach Randy Brown that then-Arizona Wildcat Tyler Loop was the right kicker for the Ravens. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) The Ravens had also signed undrafted rookie free agent John Hoyland to compete with Loop. In one late July practice early in training camp, Hoyland converted on all nine of his field goal attempts. With Brown alternating kickers each day at that point, Loop showed up the next morning thinking he’d better not miss. He didn’t, converting all 10 of his tries, including ones from 63, 65 and 68 yards during individual work on a far field. Shortly after on Aug. 2, the Ravens cut Hoyland, leaving Loop as the lone kicker on the roster. The next day, Loop drilled a 60-yard field goal during a practice at M&T Bank Stadium, further solidifying his grip on the position. All the while, he continued to refine his technique. Related Articles Ravens observations: Injury updates on Emery Jones, Adisa Isaac; defense creating turnovers Ravens’ John Harbaugh on Browns naming Flacco starting QB: ‘Joe can sling it’ Joe Flacco named Browns starting QB for Week 1 READER POLL: Are the Orioles must-watch TV with Basallo and Beavers? Ravens 53-man roster projection: Tough decisions await at safety, OL The way Loop planted his foot, how he swung his leg and where he struck the all ball needed work. In the desert climate of Arizona, his apex was also towering — a trajectory that wouldn’t work so hot in AFC North cities Baltimore, Pittsburgh, Cleveland and Cincinnati. There was a new battery to get in sync with as well between long snapper Nick Moore — whom Brown dubbed the Lamar Jackson of NFL long snappers — and his holder, punter Jordan Stout. That was a precise process, too, with a need for the ball to be placed “on a dime” and with the correct amount of “lean,” all in the 1.33 seconds between the snap and Loop’s right foot meeting leather. And despite what Brown said is “elite” leg strength, Ravens coaches needed to see Loop perform in a game to see how well he could put it all together. In Baltimore’s preseason opener at home earlier this month against the Indianapolis Colts, he made 1 of 2 field goal tries, knocking in a 52-yarder and missing from 46. Saturday against the Cowboys at AT&T Stadium, he was even more impressive, making 5 of 6 kicks, including ones from 53 and 51 with his lone miss from 50. Harbaugh had seen enough. “I thought he passed [the latest test] with flying colors,” he said Monday. “He’s earned it.” Loop had also emerged. In the beginning, Brown eyed about 10 college kickers. From there, he narrowed it to around a half-dozen before further whittling his list to two he thought were capable of being excellent outdoors. He also talked to Loop’s parents and coaches and watched game tape to figure out if he had the right process to hold up in pressure situations. “Too many kickers just look at the uprights, like, ‘I just gotta make it, somehow I just gotta make it,'” Brown said. “When you talk to a guy, you can tell. You can tell who’s a little flaky and who’s dialed in.” So after that lengthy dinner in Arizona, where Loop at one point moved some tables out of the way to demonstrate his process, Brown, who wasn’t event sure he’d get the chance to use a draft pick on a kicker, texted Harbaugh. The message was simple as it was definitive. It read: “I think we found our guy.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens returned to the practice field Monday for a quieter training camp session. Holding their first without fans in attendance created a more intimate atmosphere for players and coaches to get work done with next week’s roster cutdown day looming. Coach John Harbaugh revealed that outside linebacker Adisa Isaac, who suffered a dislocated elbow during Saturday’s preseason game against the Cowboys, sustained ligament damage that’ll force him to undergo surgery and miss the start of the season. Isaac’s injury opens the door for David Ojabo to solidify his spot on the depth chart behind Kyle Van Noy, Odafe Oweh, Tavius Robinson and rookie Mike Green. Harbaugh also confirmed rookie offensive tackle Emery Jones Jr. will not be healthy for the start of the season. Jones Jr. (shoulder), a third-round draft pick out of LSU, is expected to remain on the non-football-injury/illness list and miss Baltimore’s first four regular season games against Buffalo, Cleveland, Detroit and Kansas City. “I would say the doctor, the surgeon, the best I can tell you is…he wants to be sure that [Jones’ shoulder] is fully right,” Harbaugh said. “And that’s the way it should be. We respect that. So it’s going to take a little longer…we won’t be counting on him early on in the season.” Running back Keaton Mitchell and safety Kyle Hamilton both participated in the early periods of practice before both players separated from the team and worked out individually. Mitchell, who recorded 68 rushing yards across nine carries in the preseason opener against Indianapolis, did not practice last week leading up to the Cowboys game. On Monday, Mitchell specifically worked on his cutting and agility, participating in a variety of individual drills before the third-year tailback and Hamilton went indoors. Joint practice ‘didn’t make sense’ The Ravens were set to have a joint practice with the Commanders this Thursday ahead of Saturday’s preseason finale. Both sides agreed to cancel based on scheduling, with Washington hosting their second preseason game Monday night against Cincinnati. “It wasn’t going to be the kind of practice possible that we would’ve needed this week for them, they’re on a short week. So we would’ve gone all the way down there and for what it would have had to have been it just didn’t make sense.” Harbaugh and Commanders coach Dan Quinn were both interested in finding a way to make the practice work, Harbaugh said. Instead, they’ll wait until Saturday to share the field at Northwest Stadium. Baltimore Ravens inside linebackers coach Tyler Santucci stands behind assistant linebackers coach Matt Pees during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens defensive quality control coach Brendan Clark stands beside safety Kyle Hamilton as safety Malaki Starks runs during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens defensive lineman C.J. Okoye hits the pads during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens pass rush coach Chuck Smith gives insight regarding coverage to defensive lineman Nnamdi Madubuike during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens assistant special teams coach Anthony Levine Sr. gestures while speaking with defensive backs including Thomas Graham Jr. and safety Reuben Lowery III during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens cornerback Keyon Martin catches the ball during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens head certified athletic trainer Ron Medlin watches the team during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens running back Keaton Mitchell holds his helmet during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens defensive lineman C.J. Okoye walks onto the field during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens defensive back Thomas Graham Jr. participates shortly after signing with the squad during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens defensive back Thomas Graham Jr. participates shortly after signing with the squad during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens head football coach John Harbaugh talks with running back Derrick Henry during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens head football coach John Harbaugh talks with running back Derrick Henry during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens head football coach John Harbaugh walks off at the conclusion of practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens head certified athletic trainer Ron Medlin, left talks with head football coach John Harbaugh during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens head certified athletic trainer Ron Medlin, left talks with head football coach John Harbaugh during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens senior special teams coach Randy Brown during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Baltimore Ravens senior special teams coach Randy Brown during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Show Caption1 of 18Baltimore Ravens inside linebackers coach Tyler Santucci stands behind assistant linebackers coach Matt Pees during practice at Baltimore’s training facility, for the upcoming NFL preseason game hosted by the Washington Commanders. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Expand Flowers’ speed on display The highlight of the afternoon came from wideout Zay Flowers, who flashed his speed multiple times and continued to be Lamar Jackson’s go-to target. Flowers hauled in the deepest ball of the session, a 40-yard strike from Jackson on a crossing route where he slipped behind safeties Sanoussi Kane and Malaki Starks. Flowers also made a tough grab in tight coverage, securing a Jackson throw with Kane and Starks draped on him. Jackson later completed a sidearm throw threaded through traffic to fullback Lucas Scott over the middle, a play that drew expressive reactions from teammates and coaches. Ravens safety Beau Brade, shown tackling Cowboys tight end John Stephens Jr. during Saturday's preseason game, intercepted Cooper Rush during Monday's practice for his first takeaway of the preseason. (AP Photo/Gareth Patterson) Defense forces multiple takeaways There has not been a bigger defensive emphasis than Zach Orr preaching the importance of takeaways. They managed a pair during Monday’s practice. In 11-on-11 drills at full speed, quarterback Cooper Rush slung the ball to Malik Cunningham, who cut back toward the ball about 15 yards upfield outside the right hashmark. Beau Brade, a second-year safety out of Maryland and a River Hill graduate, gained inside leverage and jumped the route, intercepting Rush for his first takeaway of training camp. Brade hasn’t starred much in training camp until that first pick. He’d been overshadowed by the August darling, undrafted rookie safety Reuben Lowery who is still fighting for a roster spot in the secondary. “Beau is good enough to make the team,” Harbaugh said Saturday night, “and he’s right there with those decisions we’re going to have to make. But, I think I would be very comfortable with Beau being out there playing football for us, playing special teams and playing defense. He’s only gotten better every single day, but he’s proven himself. He plays good football when he is out there.” Later, in a 7-on-7 situation, Lamar Jackson found Charlie Kolar running an out route toward the left sideline. Kolar caught the ball but just as he turned upfield, linebacker Trenton Simpson’s fist rattled it loose. Simpson, who figures to be second in command beside Roquan Smith but also hasn’t had a dazzling camp, stole the ball from Kolar and raced upfield for what would have been a forced-fumble-turned-touchdown. Related Articles Ravens’ John Harbaugh on Browns naming Flacco starting QB: ‘Joe can sling it’ Joe Flacco named Browns starting QB for Week 1 READER POLL: Are the Orioles must-watch TV with Basallo and Beavers? Ravens 53-man roster projection: Tough decisions await at safety, OL 5 things we learned from the Ravens’ preseason win over the Cowboys Rookie linebacker Teddye Buchanan saw an uptick in snaps with the defense’s top unit as Orr experimented with different pieces. Buchanan and Trenton Simpson appeared to share reps alongside Roquan Smith. New addition Thomas Graham Jr., wearing No. 34, was spotted with the reserves as the fifth-year defensive back began his acclimation to Orr’s defense. Harbaugh spent the first few live periods observing practice alongside Orr from the defense’s sideline. Harbaugh later rejoined the offensive coaches, and on two occasions, paused practice to speak with Jackson and the rest of the team’s starters in the offensive huddle. Coach gets amped Assistant special teams coach Anthony Levine Sr. brought an edge to begin the day’s drills. He was spotted barking toward a group of wide receivers and defensive backs on how to win at the line of scrimmage with aggressive hands in order to get vertical. When did Harbaugh decide on Loop? After Saturday night’s preseason win in Dallas, Harbaugh was asked if by this point he felt comfortable with Tyler Loop being the Ravens kicker heading into this season. The sixth-round rookie had just made 5 of 6 attempts, including a pair from over 50 yards. Harbaugh answered with a resounding yes. He was asked on Monday when he came to that decision, whether it was before the game or if Loop’s big night helped sway the team’s thinking? “Pretty much when I stood up there and you [Baltimore Sun Ravens reporter Brian Wacker] were sitting there asking the question, that’s when I decided,” Harbaugh said. “It seemed like the right thing to do. I think it makes sense. He’s earned it. He’s ready. Have tremendous confidence in him.” Ravens practice playlist A curation of songs played by the coaching staff during practice at the Under Armour Performance Center: “at my purest” – Gunna feat. Offset “Colossal” – Future “Walk” – Kodak Black “She Ready” – Key Glock “Mind Your Manners” – Pearl Jam “PJ” – Bossman Dlow & Lil Baby “Livin’ On A Prayer” – Bon Jovi “Still Trappin’” – Lil Durk & King Von “BUSSIN” – Moneybagg Yo & Rob49 “Now Who” – YoungBoy Never Broke Again “sakpase” – Gunna “That’s the Way (I Like It)” – KC and the Sunshine Band “Codeine Dreaming” – Kodak Black feat. Lil Wayne “6th Sense” – Kodak Black “Hold On Loosely” – 38 Special “Whatever She Wants” – Bryson Tiller “Hall of Fame” – Young Dolph “What The Business Is” – Babyface Ray “Back In Blood” – Pooh Shiesty feat. Lil Durk “Shake The Room” – Pop Smoke feat. Quavo Have a news tip? Contact Josh Tolentino at jtolentino@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200, x.com/JCTSports and instagram.com/JCTSports. Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

The Cleveland Browns officially named Joe Flacco their starting quarterback for Week 1, which means the man who piloted the Ravens to a Super Bowl in 2013 before being succeeded by Lamar Jackson five years later should take the field at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore’s home opener on Sept. 14. “It won’t be the focus right away,” coach John Harbaugh said, “but it’ll be in the back of our minds.” He noted that the preparation for playing Cleveland at this stage is the same as how the Ravens begin every season — with advance scouting on their first four games. They have to get through Buffalo first before dialing in on an AFC North rival. Still, it didn’t come as much of a surprise to Baltimore’s longtime coach that his former signal-caller would emerge as the top option in what is perhaps the strangest and most crowded quarterback situation in the NFL. The controversial Deshaun Watson would have been the incumbent and top option had he not re-torn his right Achilles tendon during rehab in April. Cleveland signed the 40-year-old Flacco to backfill for Watson’s injury. That room also includes Kenny Pickett, who backed up Jalen Hurts during Philadelphia’s Super Bowl run last season. In April, the Browns drafted two quarterbacks, Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Then they went out and added another former Ravens quarterback in Tyler Huntley at the start of training camp. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that he expected Cleveland to carry four quarterbacks on their 53-man roster, which would be an unconventional practice for any NFL team. Of the six quarterbacks who have been in contention this offseason, Cleveland landed on the veteran. “Joe Cool leading the way,” their team social media account wrote in a Monday afternoon post. Harbaugh said they had an idea that Cleveland would pick Flacco as their starter. “We know Joe can sling it,” he said. “We know he’s capable of doing it, but we also know what kind of team they are and how tough they are to play against.” The last time Flacco played in Baltimore was for the Ravens on Nov. 4, 2018, in a 23-16 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. He threw for 206 yards without a touchdown and exited because of a hip injury that gave way to the eventual two-time Most Valuable Player. Related Articles Joe Flacco named Browns starting QB for Week 1 READER POLL: Are the Orioles must-watch TV with Basallo and Beavers? Ravens 53-man roster projection: Tough decisions await at safety, OL 5 things we learned from the Ravens’ preseason win over the Cowboys It’s official: Ravens name Tyler Loop their new kicker after preseason show “Man, I did not want to let Lamar get out there, that’s for sure,” Flacco told reporters last season in Indianapolis. “That was my team. And that was very hard mentally for me. I pushed it as far as I could in terms of trying to let them convince me to go out there and play. But at the same time, you don’t want to put your future career in danger.” Following his 11 years in Baltimore, Flacco bounced from Denver to the New York Jets to Cleveland, Indianapolis and now back to the Browns. The last time he played against Baltimore was during his three-year stint in New York. It was Week 1 in 2022, a 24-9 loss in which Flacco threw the ball 59 times, completed 37 passes totaling 309 yards, one touchdown and an interception. “Obviously, his homecoming back here will be a big story,” Harbaugh said, “but just try to focus on playing the best game we can.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. Former Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco and coach John Harbaugh celebrate a road playoff win over the Patriots in 2013. (Staff file) View the full article

The Browns have their starting quarterback for Week 1. On Aug. 18, the team announced Coach Kevin Stefanski has named longtime veteran Joe Flacco the starter when Cleveland opens the season Sept. 7 at home against the Bengals. Flacco, 40, is entering his 18th season in the NFL, most with the Ravens. He is a Super Bowl champion and was named Super Bowl MVP when Baltimore beat the 49ers in 2013 and tied Joe Montana’s playoff record of 11 touchdowns in that postseason. For Browns fans, it was an instant love affair when in 2023 Flacco was signed late in the season to take over at QB and started five consecutive games, going 4-1, and leading Cleveland into the playoffs for the first time since 2020. Flacco was again signed in the offseason (after spending 2024 with the Colts) but the team also added Kenny Pickett via a trade and drafted two rookie QBs – Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders – to make a crowded QB room. During training camp, Flacco emerged as the leader while others were nursing injuries and didn’t give up the spot. Flacco recently told reporters he was getting about 90% of practice reps. “Yeah, that’s big,” Flacco told reporters before practice with the Eagles on Aug. 13. “It’s obviously advantageous to have a guy back there 90% of the time, and you get going with everybody. You get to hear the cadence, you get to see how he operates and see how he does through tough times and good times. “That’s all great, but in this league, the situation isn’t always just laid out for you perfectly. You’ve got to be able to adapt, and there’s no excuses. Once it all starts, it’s about winning football games no matter what, and that’s the way I approach it.” Cleveland’s final preseason game is Aug. 23 at home against the Rams at 1 p.m. It’s unclear if Flacco will play but it would not be a surprise if he’s slotted for a few series. The last time Flacco started a season opener was 2022 with the Jets. He brings a vast amount of experience to the Browns offense. “He’s the same guy every single day,” Stefanski said on Aug. 13 about Flacco. “I think that’s one of the things you admire about Joe is how he approaches his business. He’s done a really nice job in camp. He’s also done a really nice job just providing leadership to the quarterback room, to the offense and to the football team.” View the full article

The next wave of Orioles prospects is in Baltimore. The ballclub called up outfielder and its No. 3 prospect Dylan Beavers on Saturday before promoting catcher and top prospect Samuel Basallo on Sunday, adding an influx of exciting young talent to their lineup amid what has been a disappointing season. With those two prospects expected to play nearly every day, are the Orioles must-watch TV again? We want to hear from you. After you vote, leave a comment and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

A week from Tuesday, the Ravens’ initial 53-man roster will be officially set. But in many ways, it already is. Coach John Harbaugh announced following Saturday night’s preseason win over the Dallas Cowboys that sixth-round rookie Tyler Loop will be the team’s kicker this season, thus ending the search for Justin Tucker’s replacement. He also said Baltimore will carry four running backs — a somewhat unusual move — with second-year fifth-round pick Rasheen Ali joining Derrick Henry, Justice Hill and Keaton Mitchell. There have been injuries that will shape the roster, too. Second-year outside linebacker and fourth-round pick Adisa Isaac suffered a dislocated elbow against Dallas and will be out at least a few weeks. Rookie sixth-round cornerbacks Robert Kone and Bilhal Kone have already been placed on injured reserve after suffering a torn patellar tendon and torn knee ligaments, respectively, to end their seasons. Safety Ar’Darius Washington is also expected to miss most, if not all, of the season after tearing his Achilles tendon during offseason workouts. Still, some tough decisions will have to be made for what are very few openings on a roster replete with high-end talent and expected to contend for a Super Bowl. Harbaugh has been pleased with his rookie class and now will have to decide which ones make the team and which ones can be stashed on the practice squad without another team scooping them up before that can happen. He’ll also have to consider some roster gymnastics and how to juggle certain players and position groups. For example, with Isaiah Likely still recovering from surgery to repair a broken bone in his right foot, does that mean the ascendant tight end will begin the year on injured reserve, resulting in him automatically missing at least the first four games of the season and clearing a roster spot elsewhere? Already, the decision to carry a fourth running back is having an impact. “It just makes it one less guy that you can take at some other spot, and that’ll be the challenge,” Harbaugh said. “Because there’s more than 53 guys that would be good enough to make the team.” Related Articles 5 things we learned from the Ravens’ preseason win over the Cowboys It’s official: Ravens name Tyler Loop their new kicker after preseason show Instant analysis from Ravens’ 31-13 win over Cowboys in 2nd preseason game Risers and fallers: Ravens’ defense dominates in preseason win over Cowboys Inside the ropes: Ravens legend appears at BMW Championship at Caves Valley Here’s a look at who those 53 players are projected to be: Quarterbacks (2) Lamar Jackson, Cooper Rush The competition for Lamar Jackson’s backup was never actually one. Veteran Cooper Rush was signed this past offseason for that role and has unsurprisingly easily outperformed second-year quarterback Devin Leary all summer. Saturday night, he found some rhythm, too, completing 20 of 30 passes for 198 yards and a touchdown in Baltimore’s win over the Dallas Cowboys. He also had two interceptions, but one of those was off Ali’s hands. “He’s just very good,” Harbaugh said of the former Cowboys backup. “He’s a very good player. He’s accurate, on time. He runs the offense, runs the show very well. I think he’s a good fit with our guys. Our guys like him.” Running backs (4) Derrick Henry, Justice Hill, Keaton Mitchell, Rasheen Ali In a somewhat surprising move, Harbaugh announced after the Cowboys game that he will carry four running backs on the roster, with Ali being the fourth member of a deep and talented group. That’ll take a spot away from another position, but given the injury history of Keaton Mitchell, who is currently dealing with a hamstring issue but is expected to be ready for Week 1, it provides Baltimore with some insurance. Ali has also looked good in camp and, aside from a couple of mistakes against the Cowboys, in the preseason. It doesn’t hurt that he also plays special teams. Wide receivers (6) Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, DeAndre Hopkins, Tylan Wallace, Devontez Walker, LaJohntay Wester One of Harbaugh’s draft desires was to find a punt returner. Enter LaJohntay Wester, who already has a punt return for a touchdown in the preseason and has looked comfortable and fluid fielding kicks. He still needs some work as a receiver, but the sixth receiver has to contribute on special teams, and he’s certainly proven he is capable of doing that. Likewise, Tylan Wallace is a valuable special teams contributor, dependable receiver and popular within the locker room and organization. Second-year receiver Devontez Walker has also progressed to the point where he should be on the field more often this season. Tight ends/fullback (3) Mark Andrews, Charlie Kolar, Patrick Ricard Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely could be placed on the reserve/PUP list and miss the first four games of the season because of his foot injury. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) What the Ravens do here will impact the roster. Likely will be part of this unit once he returns, but given the likelihood that he’ll miss at least a game or two, he could start the year on the reserve/physically unable to perform list list (which would force him to miss four games), thus opening up a spot elsewhere on the roster. Whenever he does return, Baltimore will have to make room for him, but that’s something that could work itself out with the unfortunate reality of future injuries or simply through releasing a player the Ravens feel they could re-sign to the practice squad. Offensive linemen (10) Ronnie Stanley, Andrew Vorhees, Tyler Linderbaum, Daniel Faalele, Roger Rosengarten, Joseph Noteboom, Corey Bullock, Ben Cleveland, Carson Vinson, Garrett Dellinger The starting offensive line is effectively set with Andrew Vorhees being the clear favorite at left guard and the rest of the group the same as last season. Joseph Noteboom checks the box for being a swing tackle, while Corey Bullock has moved ahead of Nick Samac for the backup center role. “Corey is fantastic,” Rush said after the Cowboys game, which was the second-year Maryland product’s second straight start in the preseason. “That guy; he runs the show. … He’s very smart, knows what’s going on, gets everyone going.” He can also play guard, another plus. Ben Cleveland, meanwhile, has cemented his place on the field goal unit and is a serviceable backup at guard. Carson Vinson is a “project,” Harbaugh said, but it seems unlikely the Ravens would be able to sneak the rookie tackle out of Alabama A&M onto their practice squad because tackles don’t grow on trees. But if Baltimore does not put Likely on the reserve/PUP list, that probably means keeping just nine offensive linemen, with seventh-round rookie Garrett Dillinger headed to the practice squad. Defensive linemen (5) Nnamdi Madubuike, Travis Jones, Broderick Washington, Jon Jenkins, Aeneas Peebles The Ravens signed Jon Jenkins to be a run-stuffing nose tackle to fill the void created when Michael Pierce retired. Defensive line coach Dennis Johnson said that sixth-round rookie Aeneas Peebles has “elite” get off and, though he’s undersized, he has had a solid summer and is an intriguing player. Baltimore also brought back Brent Urban, but it seems more likely the 34-year-old would be bound for the practice squad. Second-year undrafted free agent C.J. Okoye has also made a nice push this summer, but the Ravens aren’t keeping six linemen. Outside linebackers (5) Odafe Oweh, Kyle Van Noy, Tavius Robinson, Mike Green, David Ojabo Isaac suffering a dislocated elbow against the Cowboys on Saturday means the second-year linebacker out of Penn State will be “out for a few weeks, at least,” according to Harbaugh. That will almost certainly put him on the reserve/PUP list to open the season. It also means that David Ojabo’s spot is safe as the final linebacker in the group. Inside linebackers (4) Roquan Smith, Trenton Simpson, Teddye Buchanan, Jake Hummel Ravens linebacker Jake Hummel was brought in for his special teams ability. (Matt Patterson/AP) Rookie fourth-round pick Teddye Buchanan got off to a nice start Saturday against the Cowboys, disappeared for a bit and struggled at times, but he looked much better in his second game than his first. Jake Hummel was signed for his special teams play. Undrafted rookie Jay Higgins IV has made a strong push to make the roster as well. Against the Cowboys, he had a splash play for the second week in a row with a strip sack of quarterback Will Grier after an interception against the Indianapolis Colts the week before. He very much looks to be the Ravens’ next undrafted gem at linebacker, but they also might feel comfortable about being able to sneak him onto the practice squad. Cornerbacks (6) Marlon Humphrey, Nate Wiggins, Jaire Alexander, Chide Awuzie, T.J. Tampa, Jalyn Armour-Davis There’s no question who the top five cornerbacks are, though Jaire Alexander recently had fluid buildup in his knee and hasn’t practiced of late. Undrafted rookie Keyon Martin had a terrific game against the Cowboys, sacking Joe Milton III for a safety and playing well in coverage. But as pleased as Harbaugh was with him, he’s probably a long shot at best to make the roster and is more likely headed to the practice squad. Safeties (5) Kyle Hamilton, Malaki Starks, Sanoussi Kane, Reuben Lowery, Beau Brade “Beau [Brade] is good enough to make the team, and he's right there with those decisions we're going to have to make,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. (Gareth Patterson/AP)One of the more interesting developments from Saturday night was that undrafted rookie Reuben Lowery outsnapped second-year former Maryland standout Beau Brade, 34-19, on defense. The Ravens like Lowery’s intelligence, proclivity to always seem to have his nose around the ball and his versatility to also play cornerback. A few other teams have also taken notice of Lowery, so it’s unlikely Baltimore would be able to store him on the practice squad. The same could be said of Beau Brade, a former standout at River Hill and Maryland. “Beau is good enough to make the team, and he’s right there with those decisions we’re going to have to make,” Harbaugh said. “But, I think I would be very comfortable with Beau being out there playing football for us, playing special teams and playing defense. … He plays good football when he is out there.” Brade’s ability to play special teams is also a significant factor and probably gives him the advantage of making it over Higgins for one of the final spots. Specialists (3) Tyler Loop, Jordan Stout, Nick Moore Harbaugh announced after the Cowboys game that Loop had officially won the job to be the team’s next kicker, to which Loop responded with, “That’s fun.” In two preseason games, Loop has made 6 of 8 field goal attempts, which included boots from 51 and 53 yards against Dallas in front of about 30 friends and family, an hour away from where he starred in high school. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens improved to 2-0 with a 31-13 preseason win Saturday night against the Dallas Cowboys that put any leftover kicker concerns to rest and showcased young defensive depth. Here are five things we learned from the game: Tyler Loop ‘earned it’ A section of fans sitting in the upper deck at Jerry’s World stretched out homemade white and purple signs that read, “Loop there it is.” It made for worthy fodder on the broadcast. AT&T Stadium, a dome in Arlington, Texas, is less than an hour from where Tyler Loop grew up. He had plenty of family and friends there to support with their cheesy one-liner. He guessed maybe 30 people. This was as close to an authentic home game as the rookie kicker will have all winter — at least until he gets comfortable swinging his leg in Baltimore’s more unpredictable weather conditions. Loop delivered. He made 5 of 6 field goal attempts, making 2 of 3 from 50-plus yards. By himself, Loop outscored the Cowboys, 16-13. This, after his 1-for-2 showing in the preseason opener. But it wasn’t as if the coaching staff left that game scratching their heads about the lone miss. They could tell right away that Loop scraped his foot before striking the ball. That gets washed away when he made his next try from beyond 50 yards. Baltimore’s trust is evident by how willing the organization was to release his competitor, John Hoyland, and hold off on bringing in a veteran to force reporters to keep tracking every kick, every day in what would be the only true training camp positional battle. Loop’s preseason has quieted any of that discourse. He’s ready to be the starter. After splitting the uprights on a 50-plus yarder Saturday night, he looked confident as ever. Maybe more than that, he never showed signs of nerves while cameras zoomed in on the baby face with some stubble hiding behind that face mask. “He’ll be the kicker,” coach John Harbaugh said. “He’s earned it.” Loop didn’t even know that it became official. “That’s fun,” he exclaimed to reporters. Field goals are the money-making side of his job. He’s still responsible for booting the ball downfield on kickoffs. While preseason is the time to try throwing wrinkles in the operation, Loop did look frustrated after he opened the second half with a knuckleball that dribbled out of bounds. Per the NFL’s new kickoff rule, any ball that falls short of the landing zone puts the opposing offense at their own 40-yard line. Don’t read too far into that. What matters is that Loop is making field goals, and he’s got the leg to drive the ball like Bryson DeChambeau. Punter-holder Jordan Stout told The Baltimore Sun recently that Loop has “the biggest leg I’ve ever seen.” Ravens quarterback Cooper Rush completed 20 of 30 passes for 198 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions against his former team. (AP Photo/LM Otero) Cooper Rush takes a step forward In Harbaugh’s words, Cooper Rush’s 20 completions on 30 passing attempts for 198 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions is “what we expect from him. That’s what we’ve seen from him every day.” Rush handled first-half duties Saturday night. He wasn’t revelatory but, to Harbaugh’s point, he did what he would be called on to do should the Ravens need to go to their backup at any point this season: Not sink the ship and let the defense carry the brunt of the work. Give Rush some credit. His first interception appeared to be a forced throw with no help from his receiver, LaJohntay Wester, who got tied up and turned his head to the ball too late. It looks even worse on the stat sheet when you see that Dallas’ Andrew Booth took it back to the end zone for a pick 6. Rush’s second interception simply slipped through Rasheen Ali’s hands into those of a waiting defender. Beyond that, his coach thought that the 31-year-old veteran was “accurate” and “on time.” Related Articles It’s official: Ravens name Tyler Loop their new kicker after preseason show Instant analysis from Ravens’ 31-13 win over Cowboys in 2nd preseason game Risers and fallers: Ravens’ defense dominates in preseason win over Cowboys Inside the ropes: Ravens legend appears at BMW Championship at Caves Valley The 13 Ravens with most at stake in Saturday’s preseason game at Cowboys That was true for a while on throws only to Devontez Walker. After one quarter, Walker had five catches on seven targets for 47 yards (he finished with six for 61). No one else had more than a catch by that point. It wasn’t until later, settled into the flow of the offense, that Rush made the highlight of his Baltimore tenure thus far: a scramble drill touchdown to Keith Kirkwood in the back of the end zone. The Ravens thought that they might be getting an upgrade at backup quarterback when they signed Rush to a two-year, $6.2 million deal this offseason. It’s hard to stamp that as the truth. Saturday was at least a slight improvement from a 20.8 passer rating against the Colts to 68.5. Earlier this week, Rush was asked if a preseason game in Dallas might be an opportunity to show his former team he’s doing just fine without them. Rush let out a half-chuckle, “I’ve been really trying to show my current team I’m doing well.” That point of proving himself to his peers was reintroduced after the win. “I thought ball control, lot of completions, keeping the defense off the field, we were really good on third down. Then make the plays when they’re there,” he said. “Missed one scramble TD but had another one there. Bounced back after negative plays.” Who might back up center Tyler Linderbaum? It’s becoming clear. The mistakes are far louder on tape than the positive reps. Looking back on this game, it will be Corey Bullock’s false start in the red zone that pushed the Ravens into an unfriendly first-and-goal from the 16-yard line that yielded only three points that will be harped on in the offensive line room. It seemed that was Bullock’s only gaffe. The Prince George’s County native signed out of the University of Maryland is fighting for a roster spot after spending all of 2024 on the practice squad. Stacking a second solid outing as Baltimore’s starting center in both preseason games indicates that he’s the favorite to back up two-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum. “He’s fantastic,” Rush said. “He runs the show. … Guys were going to the right places, that’s all Corey.” Added Ali: “Corey’s my dog. He communicates well. He’s real. He just lets me know everything that happens pre-snap just as far as protections, the IDs and everything. And even in the locker room, we just talk a lot. That’s my guy.” Bullock graded out well in run blocking against the Colts last week (75.5, according to Pro Football Focus) but struggled far more in pass protection. Saturday night was a similar tale. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken said this week that he has been excited for what Bullock has shown through camp thus far. “He’s a very conscientious young man, and he’s playing a really high level right now,” Monken said. The alternative to back up Linderbaum would be Nick Samac, who replaced Bullock before halftime. Rookie guard Grant Dellinger is the other. Like Bullock, he brings an intriguing positional versatility. The 6-foot-3, 320-pound Bullock was an offensive tackle in college, then spent this summer making himself an option at center. Bullock told the team website, “If I want to stick around, versatility is key.” Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III throws a pass under pressure from Ravens linebacker Jay Higgins IV. Higgins has a chance to make the team as an undrafted free agent. (AP Photo/Richard Rodriguez) Don’t overlook these young defenders Keyon Martin shoved Miles Sanders back 5 yards on Dallas’ second play from scrimmage. Moments later, Martin burst into the backfield on a designed blitz that left quarterback Joe Milton III crumbling to the ground in the back of the end zone for a safety. Before halftime, Milton unloaded on a deep ball looking for Jonathan Mingo. It was intercepted by another undrafted free agent who has turned heads all summer, Reuben Lowery. The versatile defensive back high-pointed the football in the end zone for an uncontested catch. Still, it was the kind he can’t afford to drop. It swung the pendulum back in Baltimore’s favor after an interception from Rush on the previous play. “I thought all the young DBs stepped up and played well,” Harbaugh said. “I’m proud of that whole group. You can mention any one of those names, those guys all played very well.” Then linebacker Jay Higgins IV joined the fun. The undrafted rookie from Iowa forced a fumble in the fourth quarter for his second turnover in as many preseason appearances. Baltimore has included at least one UDFA on its final 53-man roster in 20 of the past 21 seasons. Lowery is constructing the best case to make it 21 of 22, considering he can fit in at safety or cornerback. Higgins is a close second option if the roster construction allows for a fifth linebacker primarily playing special teams. After Saturday night, and as the secondary has thinned out with season-ending injuries for sixth-round picks Bilhal Kone and Robert Longerbeam, Martin won’t let anyone forget about him, either. Adisa Isaac vs. David Ojabo Harbaugh told reporters after the game that outside linebacker Adisa Isaac suffered a dislocated elbow that will keep him out for “at least” the next few weeks. It’s an unfortunate reality for a sophomore who missed most of last year because of injury and had been constructing a preseason camp worthy of roster contention. It stinks to see a positional battle tilt because of injury. Isaac and David Ojabo, both of whom entered the league as highly touted prospects, have flashed their moments this summer in a competition to be the team’s fifth pass rusher behind Kyle Van Noy, Odafe Oweh, Tavius Robinson and second-round pick Mike Green. Saturday night, Ojabo’s pass-rush win rate was fourth-best on the team (14.3%). Harbaugh thought that he “had a really good night from what I saw.” Isaac’s sample size was too small to judge, although he played well in the preseason opener. There’s a world in which the Ravens knock off a spot at another position to keep a sixth pass rusher. There’s room for roster Jenga, having seen the defensive back room thin out over the past week. It’s more likely that Isaac opens the year on the injured reserve and elevates Ojabo from bubble designation to a likely roster spot. Either way, it’s a shame if this gets decided in the short term by an unfortunate preseason injury. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

ARLINGTON, Texas — A handful of “Loop there it is” signs. About 30 family members in attendance. And now, officially, the Ravens’ kicker. John Harbaugh confirmed the obvious after Baltimore’s 31-13 preseason win over the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday night at AT&T Stadium, naming Tyler Loop as the team’s kicker this season. “He’s earned it,” Harbaugh said. “He had a good night, good night on kickoffs, too. “It was good to see.” Loop’s latest performance was good, too. The rookie sixth-round draft pick out of Arizona connected on 5 of 6 field goal attempts, including ones from 53 and 51 yards. His only miss was from 50 yards. He also made both of his extra point attempts, though he did have one kickoff that went out of bounds and another that fell short of the landing zone, each resulting in a penalty, as Baltimore experimented with some different types of kicks. Still, Loop didn’t know that he’d won the job until being informed by a reporter afterward. “Nice,” he said. “That’s fun.” Even more so with a slew of friends and family at the game cheering him on with each attempt. Loop, 24, grew up about 45 miles northeast of the stadium, in Lucas, where he starred at Lovejoy High School. Now, he’ll replace an embattled Ravens legend, Justin Tucker, who was released by the team earlier this year and then suspended 10 weeks by the NFL following sexual misconduct accusations from more than 15 massage therapists from Baltimore-area spas. Not that Loop was thinking about any of that, of course. He was just happy deliver on a night when those closest to him were able to be in the stands. His performance, both Saturday night and throughout the summer, also solidified his position as the Ravens’ next kicker. Related Articles Instant analysis from Ravens’ 31-13 win over Cowboys in 2nd preseason game Risers and fallers: Ravens’ defense dominates in preseason win over Cowboys Inside the ropes: Ravens legend appears at BMW Championship at Caves Valley The 13 Ravens with most at stake in Saturday’s preseason game at Cowboys Ravens stock report: Who’s trending up, down heading into Dallas? So far, Loop has made 6 of 8 field goal attempts in the preseason, along with having made all but a handful of tries during training camp, where he was initially competing with undrafted free agent John Hoyland for the job before Baltimore released Hoyland in early August. A job that now officially belongs to Loop, the first kicker to be drafted by the Ravens in their 30 years of existence. “It’s special,” Loop said, adding that he planned to celebrate with his family on Saturday night. “Just really excited to be in Baltimore. “I’m excited to be here. Gotta earn it every day still.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Here’s what The Baltimore Sun sports staff had to say immediately after the Ravens’ 31-13 preseason win over the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday night at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Brian Wacker, reporter: There’s little question that Ravens running back Rasheen Ali is a distant fourth in the pecking order of Baltimore’s backfield, but given Keaton Mitchell’s injury history, wouldn’t it be wise to keep him on the 53-man roster? Not only did he run well Saturday night, but he had a solid performance as a returner on special teams. Likewise, wide receiver Devontez Walker has continued to make strides and unsurprisingly Cooper Rush found him early and often after coach John Harbaugh made it clear that the passing game had to be better and that Rush would get more than four opportunities to sling it. More worrisome is Adisa Isaac, who left with an injury in the second quarter and did not appear to return. For a second-year player with an injury history already battling for a fifth outside linebacker spot, the timing was unfortunate. Mike Preston, columnist: Preseason games are basically a way for the NFL to soak up more money from fans. With that said, there were a couple of things to come out of Saturday night’s game. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush continues to get better and showed against his former team that he can make plays both in and outside the pocket. He doesn’t have great arm strength, but he’s showing more knowledge of the offense. The offensive line, with three starters in the game in guards Daniel Faalele and Andrew Vorhees and right tackle Roger Rosengarten, played well with a good mixture of the run and play-action passing game, the staple of this offense. The Ravens have to find a way to keep wide receiver Devontez Walker on the roster in some capacity, since it’s unlikely that they’ll be able to hide him on the practice squad. The former North Carolina star can play, and there is a lot of video out there for other coaches to watch. Rookie fullback Lucas Scott, from Army, is a bruiser and has excellent technique. It was hard to evaluate the Ravens’ defense because the Cowboys were so inept, especially quarterback Joe Milton III. He appeared to lack timing with his receivers, and the Ravens blew up the Cowboys’ offense for the entire first half. Weak-side linebacker Trent Simpson played well early, taking on lead blockers and holding up in coverage, but he didn’t sustain it in the second quarter. Backup middle linebacker Teddye Buchanan had a solid game, but the rookie still has problems in coverage. Safety Reuben Lowery, an undrafted rookie, continues to make plays and is very good at making tackles in space in the open field. As for special teams, kicker Tyler Loop had a strong game in his home state and even kicked a 51-yarder in the first half. For Loop, a sixth-round draft pick out of Arizona, it now shifts to being accurate in a hostile environment, not on basically a neutral field in Dallas or at home at M&T Bank Stadium. Josh Tolentino, columnist: Linebacker Jay Higgins IV appears to be on the fast track to become the Ravens’ next undrafted gem. The rookie out of Iowa registered his second turnover in as many preseason games, generating a more-than-satisfactory reaction from defensive coordinator Zach Orr. After Higgins’ interception against the Colts last week, he strip-sacked Cowboys backup quarterback Will Grier to gift Baltimore possession in the fourth quarter. As the visitor’s bench erupted, Orr was shown on the broadcast streaking down the sideline in approval of Higgins’ latest highlight. Higgins didn’t test well at the NFL scouting combine, where he ran a 4.82-second 40-yard dash, but he continues to flash across the field. Higgins, who sits on the depth chart behind Roquan Smith, Trenton Simpson and fellow rookie linebacker Teddye Buchanan, entered training camp as a longshot to make the roster, but he’s capitalized on his opportunities by forcing key turnovers. The Ravens boast one of the most talented rosters in the NFL, which undoubtedly will force the front office into tough decisions as roster cutdown day (Aug. 26) approaches. Higgins continues to add to that puzzle in a positive way. Dallas Cowboys cornerback Andrew Booth (25) intercepts a pass and returns it for a touchdown as Baltimore Ravens wide receiver LaJohntay Wester (83) gives chase in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Richard Rodriguez)Baltimore Ravens' Keith Kirkwood (18), Rasheen Ali (26) and Dayton Wade (82) celebrate after Kirkwood caught a touchdown pass in the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Richard Rodriguez)Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marquise Robinson (28), Keyon Martin (38) and Reuben Lowery (30) celebrate after Lowery intercepted a pass in the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Gareth Patterson)Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson laughs as he talks with teammates on the sideline in the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Gareth Patterson)Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Keith Kirkwood (18) catches a touchdown pass in front of a Dallas Cowboys defender in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Richard Rodriguez)Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh watches play in the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)Baltimore Ravens place kicker Tyler Loop (33) kicks a field goal in the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)Ravens running back Rasheen Ali carries the ball as Cowboys safety Juanyeh Thomas attempts to make the stop during Saturday night's preseason game in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)Baltimore Ravens quarterback Cooper Rush (15) throws a pass under pressure from the Dallas Cowboys defense in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III is sacked for a safety as Baltimore Ravens' Mike Green, Aeneas Peebles and C.J. Ravenell (91) look on in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Gareth Patterson)Baltimore Ravens quarterback Cooper Rush throws a pass in the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)Baltimore Ravens cornerback Keyon Martin (38) celebrates with Mike Green (45) and C.J. Ravenell (91) after Martin sacked Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III for a safety in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Gareth Patterson)Baltimore Ravens' Lamar Jackson throws during team warmups before an NFL preseason football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Gareth Patterson)Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, left, talks with Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer, right, before their team's preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, left, talks with Dallas Cowboys' Trevon Diggs, center, and Micah Parsons, right, before a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)Baltimore Ravens quarterback Cooper Rush warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)Show Caption1 of 16Dallas Cowboys cornerback Andrew Booth (25) intercepts a pass and returns it for a touchdown as Baltimore Ravens wide receiver LaJohntay Wester (83) gives chase in the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Richard Rodriguez)Expand Sam Cohn, reporter: This was a win for the Ravens’ defense. Their depth made life tough for Dallas’ second- and third-stringers. By halftime, the Cowboys had only managed two first downs and 31 net yards — 11 through the air, 20 on the ground. They still finished with fewer than half of Baltimore’s total yardage. It took a befuddling pick-six from Cooper Rush for Dallas to get in the end zone. Baltimore’s collection of defenders fighting for roster spots had Zach Orr smiling ear to ear all night. Reuben Lowery picked off Joe Milton III. Keyon Martin and Malik Hamm each sacked Milton. And Jay Higgins IV logged his second takeaway in as many preseason game appearances, this one a forced fumble in the fourth quarter. Baltimore’s young defenders used this second preseason game to build on what has been an impressive summer. C.J. Doon, editor: It was against backup quarterback Joe Milton III and the Cowboys’ reserves, but the Ravens’ defense certainly played like it was the regular season. Undrafted rookie Keyon Martin made the most of his start by sacking Milton for a safety on a third-down blitz from coordinator Zach Orr. Rookie linebacker Teddye Buchanan flashed his speed and instincts. First-round pick Malaki Starks made an aggressive play to break up a pass. Training camp darling Reuben Lowery made an end zone interception to take the ball right back after a sloppy Ravens turnover. Malik Hamm (remember him?) got a sack. Undrafted rookie linebacker Jay Higgins IV made another big play with a strip-sack. The Cowboys didn’t record a first down until midway through the second quarter and had just 32 total yards at halftime. As far as preseason games are concerned, it was a dominant performance. On offense, Cooper Rush bounced back from an unfortunate pick-six to at least look serviceable (his interception before halftime was running back Rasheen Ali’s fault). Devontez Walker showed that he might be a factor in the Ravens’ crowded receivers room with six catches for 61 yards in the first half. Rookie kicker Tyler Loop (4-for-4) looks ready for prime-time. On the injury front, seeing outside linebacker Adisa Isaac go down is disappointing for a player who needs the reps after losing nearly his entire rookie season. He wasn’t expected to be a major factor in the pass rush, but the former third-round draft pick is running out of chances to prove that he belongs on the roster. Related Articles Risers and fallers: Ravens’ defense dominates in preseason win over Cowboys Inside the ropes: Ravens legend appears at BMW Championship at Caves Valley The 13 Ravens with most at stake in Saturday’s preseason game at Cowboys Ravens stock report: Who’s trending up, down heading into Dallas? Mike Preston: Ravens weak spots under the microscope | COMMENTARY Bennett Conlin, editor: In a 2022 preseason game against the Cardinals, Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely caught eight passes for 100 yards and a touchdown on eight targets. It felt like every passing play would feature Likely, who is on the verge of becoming an NFL star at tight end and could be the franchise’s heir apparent to soon-to-be free agent Mark Andrews. Could Devontez Walker be ready for a similar breakout in the coming years? The second-year wide receiver out of North Carolina caught six passes for 61 yards on eight targets, as backup quarterback Cooper Rush couldn’t stop looking his way. It was oddly reminiscent of the 2022 game, as Likely looked like he didn’t belong on the field with reserves. Does Walker? The Ravens are loaded at wide receiver, but Walker is destined for NFL playing time in the near future if he keeps performing like he has throughout this preseason. As for Rush and third-stringer Devin Leary, they looked iffy again. Leary doesn’t belong on the 53-man roster, and Rush needs to take a step forward for the Ravens to feel like he can reliably lead them to wins if Lamar Jackson goes down. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

ARLINGTON, Texas — Ravens cornerback Keyon Martin raced in and dropped Dallas Cowboys quarterback Joe Milton III in the end zone for a safety. Later, fellow defensive back Reuben Lowery fell backward in the end zone while hauling in an overthrown pass by Milton for an interception. Preseason games — particularly for teams like Baltimore with few open jobs across a highly talented roster — are about opportunity as much as anything. That was the case Saturday night at AT&T Stadium, where the Ravens, again resting almost all of their starters, easily defeated Dallas, 31-13. More important than the result, though, was how those on the margins of Baltimore’s roster performed. Here’s a look at the risers and fallers. Risers Rasheen Ali: The 2024 fifth-round draft pick had been making his case for the Ravens to at least consider keeping four running backs on the 53-man roster. After 62 yards on 19 carries against the Cowboys, it became official with coach John Harbaugh saying that he would, in fact, do just that. “Thought he was quick, explosive, very good vision,” Harbaugh said of Ali’s latest performance. That performance included four straight carries on Baltimore’s second possession, with a pair of 8-yard runs as bookends. He also had an 11-yard gain on a third-and-9 later in the drive, a 25-yard kick return and a catch in the second quarter that went for 10 yards (though he also had a pass from Cooper Rush go off his hands for an interception later that same quarter). Carrying an extra back might seem odd with Derrick Henry, Justice Hill and Keaton Mitchell getting the lion’s share of touches, but with Mitchell currently dealing with a hamstring injury and given his injury history, it’s not a bad idea, even at the expense of depth at another position. As for Ali, he said that the experience of being around a deep and talented room of backs has been “amazing” and that he’s been able to pick parts from everyone’s game to add to his own. He also said last season was “rocky” and filled with “trials and tribulations,” but that he put in “a lot of work” in the offseason and came into this year with a “new mentality.” Devontez Walker: It was an active evening for the second-year wide receiver, who has had an up-and-down training camp but was trending the right direction against Dallas. He was the leading pass catcher with six receptions on eight targets for 61 yards, including one that went for 17 yards on the game’s first play. He also had a grab on a sideline out on third-and-9 in the opening quarter that went for 11 yards, hauling in the pass in front of a lunging Andrew Booth. At one point in the second quarter, Walker had more yards and first downs than the Cowboys, which was an indictment of Dallas but also a sign of Walker’s continued growth. Keyon Martin: First, the cornerback shot through untouched on a third-and-14 from the Cowboys’ own 3-yard line to drop Milton for a safety and the game’s first points. Later in the opening quarter, the 5-foot-9, 170-pound undrafted rookie made a nice open-field tackle on the bigger Jalen Tolbert to keep the receiver to a minimal gain. In all, Martin finished with three tackles, including two for loss and a sack. He likely won’t make the roster, but performances like the one he had against the Cowboys bode well for a practice squad spot. It’ll also present Baltimore a good problem to have, with Harbaugh saying that he will have some difficult roster decisions to make with more than 53 players having performed well enough to make the team. That is particularly true in the defensive backfield. Ravens rookie kicker Tyler Loop went 5-for-6 on field goal attempts against the Cowboys, including a 53-yarder. (AP Photo/LM Otero) Tyler Loop: The Ravens have their next kicker. Though it was pretty clear that the sixth-round rookie out of Arizona was already headed toward landing the job, Harbaugh made it official Saturday night after Loop converted on 5 of 6 attempts, which included makes from 53 and 51 yards. “He’s earned it,” Harbaugh said. “He had a good night, good night on kickoffs, too. “It was good to see.” Loop knocked in kicks of 29 and 51 yards in each of the first two quarters, then banged in a 42-yarder with nine seconds remaining in the first half. He added another from 32 yards in the third quarter and a 53-yarder late in the fourth. He also made both extra point attempts, with his lone field goal try missing wide left from 50 yards in the fourth quarter. Loop’s reaction once he found out from a reporter after the game? “Nice,” he said. “That’s fun.” Fallers LaJohntay Wester: On one punt return, Wester had a Cowboys defender so faked out (worried?), that the player hit him — even though the ball had already sailed over the rookie’s head and into the end zone for a touchback. Unfortunately, that was about the only highlight for the sixth-round pick, who was targeted four times in the passing game and didn’t make a single catch. That included juggling one pass that would have been good for a first down. Worse yet, he also turned too late on another pass from Rush that was a little off-target and intercepted by Booth and returned for a touchdown, with Wester doing little to try to disrupt him. Wester is a flashy returner but will need to sharpen his receiving skills. Cowboys cornerback Andrew Booth intercepts a pass and returns it for a touchdown in front of Ravens wide receiver LaJohntay Wester. (AP Photo/Richard Rodriguez) Anthony Miller: It was a bit of a rough stretch at one point for the veteran receiver who spent last season on the Ravens’ practice squad. First, he was flagged for being out of bounds on Baltimore’s first punt of the night, wiping out a fair catch at the Dallas 10-yard line. Later, he whiffed on an attempted tackle of Jalen Cropper during a kick return that resulted in a 19-yard gain. He did haul in a 25-yard catch on a third-and-5 from the Cowboys’ 29-yard line that help set up the Ravens’ first touchdown of the night, but he didn’t appear to complete the catch. Replay assist confirmed the call on the field, but it still looked at least questionable as cornerback Kemon Hall contested the play. Adisa Isaac: Zero tackles on defense and one on special teams is not the kind of line the second-year outside linebacker was looking for given a potentially tight battle with David Ojabo for the fifth (and possibly) final spot at the position. Worse yet, Isaac, whose rookie season was set back by a hamstring injury, went down in the second quarter with a dislocated shoulder, per Harbaugh, and did not return. He is expected to miss at least a few weeks. That’s obviously a blow to his chances of making the roster and means that he’s more likely headed to the injury list. It also means that Ojabo is all but certain to make the roster. Carson Vinson: One of the Ravens’ concerns this season could be their tackle depth. Vinson, a fifth-round rookie out of Alabama A&M, is viewed as a project but played plenty Saturday and struggled at times. On one play near the end of the first quarter, he was run over by Cowboys defensive end James Houston, with Rush getting popped just after he got rid of a pass. Harbaugh called Vinson over right after that. The play before that, Vinson was leading Ali on a run to the left and knocked a defender out of the way but didn’t do much in terms of blocking. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Through two days of the BMW Championship at Caves Valley Golf Club in Owings Mills, Robert MacIntyre has stolen the show. The Scotsman is 14-under par through two rounds after following up his 62 with a 64. Sitting in second place is Scottie Scheffler at 9-under par. He’s the only player within five shots of the lead. Here are observations from Friday’s second round. Isn’t it supposed to be hard? Caves Valley underwent renovations and changed from a par 72 to a par 70 with the hopes of keeping crazy low scores off the card. There was an effort to make the course more challenging after Patrick Cantlay shot 27-under par in 2021 en route to winning. But MacIntyre is making the course look easy. “I’ve played beautifully the last two days,” he said. “Yesterday the putter was on fire. Today I felt like my iron play was exceptional.” MacIntyre, 29, is the only player to reach 10-under par or better through two rounds, as the course has played tougher for everyone other than him. Can he keep up his torrid pace? That’s the question of the tournament. No. 11 makes for incredible viewing Among the best holes for spectators is No. 11, a drivable par 4 with water guarding the right side of the hole and the front of the green. On Thursday, players often took an iron and used a wedge to hit it close to the hole, which came with its challenges. Scheffler landed his wedge near the hole in Round 1, only for it to roll off the front of the green and into the rough. “Typically around most places when you hit it right of the pin, it kind of stays somewhat around there, but for some reason they decided to put that pin right on a mound in the middle of the green there,” Scheffler said Thursday. “Very interesting pin location, and I landed just behind it, and then it catches another slope. I stared at it for a while because I thought I hit a really good shot, and it almost went in the water, so I was just a little bit surprised at the result of the shot that I hit.” With the tees pushed forward Friday, fans were treated to a chunk of players trying to drive the green. Justin Thomas drove it to 20 feet and two-putted for birdie. Scheffler drove it to 30 feet and made birdie. Rory McIlroy drove the ball over the green of the 301-yard hole, using a finesse chip to get up and down for birdie. Ryan Gerard took dead aim, but his drive floundered into the wind and splashed into water short of the green. He nearly recovered for par, sticking his third shot to six feet from 173 yards before missing the putt. Justin Rose suffered a similar fate, making a bogey after coming up short on his tee shot. Andrew Novak will be kicking himself after making a mess of the short par 4. The Ryder Cup hopeful laid up, only to leave his approach shot in the water. He made a double bogey. The 11th hole was appointment viewing Friday. Denny McCarthy, of Rockville, Md., reacts after birdieing the 18th hole to finish the second round of the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Tommy Fleetwood tees off to start his second round play in the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Jason Day chips from the rough for a birdie at the 9th hole during the second round of the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Hideki Matsuyama, of Japan, hits from the sand trap to approach the 18th hole in the second round of the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Justin Rose, left, J.J. Spaun, right, discuss ball position with a PGA official after their second shots to the ninth hole landed less than an inch from each other during second round play in the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)The second approach shots to the ninth hole by golfers Justin Rose and J.J. Spaun landed less than an inch from each other in the second round of the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Rory McIlroy tees off to start his second round play in the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Harry Hall gestures to the crowd after birdieing the 9th hole in the second round of the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)A fan checks out the championship trophy during the second round of the 2025 BMW Championship at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Akshay Bhatia tees off to start his second round play in the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Show Caption1 of 10Denny McCarthy, of Rockville, Md., reacts after birdieing the 18th hole to finish the second round of the 2025 BMW Championship golf tournament at Caves Valley Golf Club. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Expand Ogden holds court At 6-9, Jonathan Ogden can’t hide in a crowd. He didn’t want to Friday at the BMW Championship. The former Ravens offensive lineman and Pro Football Hall of Famer followed Maryland native Denny McCarthy for several holes on the back nine Friday. He joyfully interacted with fans, who stared in awe at one of their football heroes. Ogden is a Super Bowl champion and 11-time Pro Bowl selection. Despite being in Maryland, Ogden wasn’t spared from interacting with Steelers fans. A small group of fans started playfully heckling Ogden with a Steelers chant. He joked back, referencing Pittsburgh’s failure to win a Super Bowl since 2008. Related Articles Robert MacIntyre still leads BMW Championship, but Scottie Scheffler looms Takoma Park native Denny McCarthy leans on vocal crowd at BMW Championship Red-hot Robert MacIntyre leads BMW Championship at Caves Valley Inside the ropes: Observations from BMW Championship 1st round at Caves Valley BMW Championship 1st round at Caves Valley finishes despite weather delay Looking for win No. 1 Tommy Fleetwood has yet to win on the PGA Tour in his career, despite several close calls. He nearly won last week in Memphis but faltered down the stretch, as he’s now up to 29 top-five finishes in 162 career starts. He’s knocking on the door again this week in Baltimore. With a 1-under 69, he improved to 6-under for the week. He did, however, make bogies on three of his final five holes to fade into a deeper hole. “A disappointing finish today, so that was probably the only bit of disappointment I’ve had over two days,” he said. “That’s going to come over a four-round golf tournament.” He’s eight back of MacIntyre but solidly within the top 10. Most players in the field would love to swap places on the leaderboard, something the Englishman knows. “I’m in fifth place, so it’s hard to moan too much about it,” Fleetwood quipped. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor Bennett Conlin at bconlin@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/BennettConlin. View the full article

The Ravens’ preseason game Saturday night against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium will be more reunion than revenge for Cooper Rush. “It will be different over on that sideline,” the backup quarterback said. “It will be something new, but looking forward to it. [I’ve made] a lot of good relationships over the years there, and it will be good to catch up with some guys. It will be cool.” Rush spent the first seven years of his NFL career with the Cowboys before signing with Baltimore in free agency this offseason. He’ll also likely get more than the four pass attempts he had last week against the Indianapolis Colts, though coach John Harbaugh was coy about how exactly he’ll divvy up the reps between Rush and third-stringer Devin Leary (with Lamar Jackson and most of the regular starters not playing). Rush also isn’t worried about showing his former team — with whom he compiled a 9-5 career record as a starting quarterback, filling in mostly for an injured Dak Prescott — what its missing out on. “I’ve been really trying to show [my] current team I’m doing well,” he said. “Those preseason games do help guys in my position.” While Rush is already all but assured the role as Jackson’s backup, here’s a look at the 13 Ravens players with the most at stake heading into the critical second game of the preseason. Center Nick Samac The 2024 seventh-round draft pick out of Michigan State spent last season as Pro Bowl selection Tyler Linderbaum’s backup but was a healthy scratch for all 17 games. He has more competition this year, with Maryland alum and second-year guard Corey Bullock having started at center last week against the Colts. Then there’s rookie seventh-round guard Garrett Dellinger, another player the Ravens view as a natural center. Guard/center Corey Bullock Bullock put together a nice performance in the preseason opener, and another strong effort this week could move him to the front of the line of contenders for the backup job to Linderbaum. With Linderbaum having dealt with a neck injury in the past, whoever is playing behind him matters. And given Bullock’s and Dellinger’s experience playing guard, that kind of versatility could give one of them the edge over Samac. Guard Darrian Dalcourt The Ravens love to keep 10 offensive linemen. Five of those spots will go to left tackle Ronnie Stanley, left guard Andrew Vorhees, Linderbaum, right guard Daniel Faalele and right tackle Roger Rosengarten. Veteran Joseph Noteboom also figures to make it as a swing tackle, while Ben Cleveland should as a reserve guard and as part of the field goal block unit. Another spot goes to Samac or Bullock at backup center. That leaves just two remaining spots, one of which could go to third-round rookie tackle Emery Jones Jr. But with Jones yet to practice because of a shoulder injury, that could increase the chances for Dalcourt if the former St. Frances standout outperforms some others. Guard Garrett Dellinger Baltimore likes positional versatility in at least some of its offensive linemen, and Dellinger can perhaps provide that with experience at guard and center. Last week, he played 28 snaps, or 45%, against the Colts and it’s likely that he’ll get a similar amount of reps against the Cowboys. A solid performance could go a long way in solidifying a spot for the LSU alum. Defensive tackle C.J. Okoye The 6-foot-6, 370-pound Okoye is tantalizing because of his size alone. His play is starting to draw some attention, too. Last week, the 23-year-old Nigerian from the NFL’s International Pathway Program had three tackles, including a thundering hit on Colts quarterback Daniel Jones. “He’s really learning,” Harbaugh said. “[He’s] making good use of all that size he has. He’s come light-years.” Okoye is still perhaps a longshot to make the 53-man roster with Nnamdi Madubuike, Travis Jones and Broderick Washington all ahead of him and veteran John Jenkins and sixth-round rookie Aeneas Peebles also in the mix, but he’s an intriguing player worth watching. Ravens defensive lineman C.J. Ravenell, shown forcing Colts quarterback Riley Leonard into an interception, can make a stronger case for a roster spot with another big game against the Cowboys on Saturday. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Defensive tackle C.J. Ravenell Like Okoye, Ravenell, in his second season out of Missouri Western, had a solid performance against the Colts. In particular, his fourth-quarter pressure up the middle on quarterback Riley Leonard helped spark an interception by linebacker Jay Higgins IV. The 6-5, 300-pound Ravenell was already on the radar of coaches last year and spent his rookie season on the practice squad. With the Ravens likely keeping five defensive linemen at most on the 53-man roster, that last spot will be between a few players. Linebacker Teddye Buchanan The prevailing thought coming into training camp was that Buchanan, a fourth-round rookie, would share if not push fellow inside linebacker Trenton Simpson for the starting job. But Buchanan struggled mightily against the Colts, often looking lost in pass coverage and slow in run defense, the latter a tough obstacle to overcome given his lack of size. While it’s possible, if not likely, that Buchanan still finds a home on the 53-man roster, another poor performance could put him on shaky ground. Linebacker Jay Higgins IV While Buchanan struggled against the Colts, Higgins, an undrafted rookie out of Iowa, put together a solid game with three tackles, two pass breakups and the aforementioned interception in 33 defensive snaps. The Ravens have a long history of finding undrafted gems and developing them into solid players (especially at inside linebacker), and Higgins could be next in line. Related Articles Ravens stock report: Who’s trending up, down heading into Dallas? Mike Preston: Ravens weak spots under the microscope | COMMENTARY Chiefs WR Rashee Rice eligible to play first 4 games, including vs. Ravens Ravens, Commanders ‘mutually agree’ to cancel joint practice READERS RESPOND: Fans say it’s Super Bowl or bust for Ravens in 2025 Outside linebacker Adisa Isaac Like the offensive line, outside linebacker is a numbers game. Typically, the Ravens keep five at the position and the top four spots this year will go to Odafe Oweh, Kyle Van Noy, Tavius Robinson and rookie second-rounder Mike Green. That means Isaac, a 2024 third-round pick whose rookie year was stunted by a hamstring injury, will be one of at least two players possibly fighting for one spot. He got off to a good start with four tackles, including one for loss and a sack, on 28 defensive snaps against the Colts. He also played 10 special teams snaps. Outside linebacker David Ojabo Ojabo, who is in the final year of his rookie contract, was finally healthy in the offseason for the first time after a litany of injuries over the past few years. Against the Colts, he had two tackles, including one for loss, and a memorable unblocked sack of Anthony Richardson that resulted in a pinkie injury for the quarterback. It’s possible that Baltimore could decide to keep six outside linebackers instead of five. That would mean both Isaac and Ojabo would be on the roster, but the oft-injured 2022 second-round pick can’t afford to treat it that way. Defensive back Reuben Lowery There almost isn’t a day that goes by that Lowery, an undrafted rookie whiz-kid out of Tennessee-Chattanooga, doesn’t make at least one nice play on the ball during practice. He has also caught the attention of Harbaugh, who said that Leary has been better than expected. Against the Colts, Lowery didn’t do anything that jumped off the page, but he did have four tackles on 42 defensive snaps and logged three special teams snaps. He also has some positional versatility at safety or nickel. Running back Rasheen Ali Speaking of numbers games, it seems unlikely that the Ravens would keep four running backs on the active roster with Derrick Henry, Justice Hill and Keaton Mitchell. But given Mitchell’s injury history, there could be a need. The better Ali plays, the tougher he makes the decision. If he doesn’t play much this week, that could be an indicator that the Ravens are hoping to tuck the 2024 fifth-round pick away on the practice squad. Quarterback Devin Leary The Ravens already know that Rush will be the No. 2 quarterback. For Leary, this week will be about showing that he’s capable of being a third-string, likely practice squad quarterback. Against the Colts, he was dreadful, completing 3 of 12 passes for 43 yards with an interception. He was also sacked once. Harbaugh didn’t mince words about the passing game needing to be better, and while he didn’t call out Leary buy name, he didn’t have to. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Ravens coach John Harbaugh called it an “improvement” week. “This is the opportunity week in camp, to really build the base under your football team,” he added. “I feel like the guys did that.” Some better than others, of course. In all, Baltimore had five practices open to reporters after its preseason opener against the Indianapolis Colts, though one of them was a walk-through, so the sample size was a bit more limited. Here’s a look at whose stock has risen and fallen over the past week as the Ravens get set to play their second preseason game Saturday night against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Brian Wacker, reporter Stock up: WR Rashod Bateman. The 2021 first-round draft back is coming off career highs in receiving yards and touchdowns, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that he has looked excellent throughout training camp. Still, he stood out in particular this past week. On Sunday, while quarterback Lamar Jackson was on the run from a chasing Odafe Oweh, Bateman broke open on the sideline for a completion. Later in the same practice, he stutter-stepped Nate Wiggins and blew by the cornerback for a long touchdown during the one-on-one period. He again broke free to sync up with Jackson when the initial play broke down. One of the best separators and top deep threats in the NFL last season, Bateman’s piece de resistance of the week came in the final open practice of the week, as he hauled in several passes. First it was a slant, then an out, then a hitch. Later, he raced by corner Chidobe Awuzie and safety Sanoussi Kane with Jackson hitting him in stride for a 40-yard touchdown. Always a smooth route runner with all-field skills, the biggest concern about Bateman has been a supposed lack of chemistry with Jackson. But the two have been poetry in motion so far. Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman has shown a strong connection with Lamar Jackson so far this year. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Stock down: CB Nate Wiggins. The second-year cornerback has been mostly impressive this summer, but he’s still had some hiccups. Early in the week, Devontez Walker blew past him on a go route for a long completion. Later in the week, he allowed a 35-yard scoring strike to DeAndre Hopkins when, despite being in position, he was unable to get a hand on the pass. Then there was the aforementioned completion to Bateman. It’s nit-picking, especially since corners are told not to get overly aggressive during training camp and Wiggins also had some nice pass breakups over the course of the week. But he still gave up some big plays. Sam Cohn, reporter Stock up: S Desmond Igbinosun. It would take a few dominoes to fall his way for this bubble safety to squeak into the 53-man roster. The Ravens’ secondary is fraught with injury risk, a truism around the league, but Igbinosun isn’t cowering to the odds stacked against him. Against the second- and third-team offenses, he’s been disruptive. Igbinosun, an undrafted rookie safety from Rutgers, has a nose for the football and has shown he’s capable in coverage. Earlier in camp, he intercepted Cooper Rush on a deflected pass tip drill. The “stock up” nomination this week is a credit to the handful of pass breakups he’s had over the middle of the field. Chidobe Awuzie figures to be a consistent member of the Ravens’ secondary, but this week seemed to be his toughest stretch. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Stock down: CB Chidobe Awuzie. The other side of Brian’s pick for a strong week by Bateman came most often at the detriment of Awuzie. With fellow cornerback Jaire Alexander absent much of the week for undisclosed reasons, Awuzie has taken more first-team defense reps shuffling through with Marlon Humphrey and Wiggins. Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr dismissed any depth chart talk of whether Awuzie or Alexander is first off the bench at cornerback because “both of those guys know they’re going to play.” On Wednesday, Awuzie got burnt on a vertical route up the left sideline. That’s when Jackson found Bateman about 40 yards upfield resulting in an easy touchdown. Bateman’s separation skills were on full display at other points throughout team drills, much to Awuzie’s dismay. The 30-year-old veteran has had a solid camp thus far and figures to be a consistent member of the Ravens’ secondary, but this week seemed to be his toughest stretch on the wrong end of Bateman’s best days. Mike Preston, columnist Stock up: WR Devontez Walker. Walker continues to come up with big play after big play, especially earlier this week. The second-year receiver out of North Carolina runs good routes and is able to get separation coming out of his breaks or after the catch. In training camp, he might be the leader in yards after the catch behind slot receiver Zay Flowers. There isn’t a lot of room for receivers on the roster, but the Ravens might need to make one for Walker. Stock down: RT Roger Rosengarten. The second-year offensive tackle isn’t having a bad training camp, but expectations were higher for the 2024 second-round pick. Even against the Colts last week in the first preseason game, Rosengarten wasn’t as dominant as he was during his rookie year. He still performs well run blocking, but is way too high in pass protection. He has been slow getting to the outside, and appears to be stepping out with the right foot instead of stepping back, allowing rushers to turn the corner on him. He’ll get better in the coming weeks, but his game is slightly off-kilter. Josh Tolentino, columnist Stock up: OLB Mike Green. Green continues to build momentum with the second-round pick producing back-to-back impressive weeks. A photo captured of Green collapsing the pocket during the preseason opener against Indianapolis went viral because of the insane amount of bend displayed by the 6-foot-3, 250-pound pass rusher. Green was spotted at the conclusion of Wednesday’s practice going through his pass rush moves with Michael McCrary, the franchise’s single-season sack leader (14 1/2 in 1998). A couple of days earlier, assistant position coach Matt Robinson labeled Green as his biggest surprise from training camp. “Mike Green really pops out on tape,” Robinson said. “He plays with a relentless mindset. He’s tenacious at the point of attack. I think you guys have seen it in games, his ability to affect the play pretty much every time he’s in there. He’s gonna set a violent edge, get pressure on the quarterback. … I really like where he’s at right now.” Stock down: CB Robert Longerbeam. Coach John Harbaugh has remained tight-lipped about Longerbeam’s knee injury, but the issue was serious enough that the Ravens placed the sixth-round pick on season-ending injured reserve this past week. Suddenly, the team’s depth at defensive back has taken a massive hit with Longerbeam joining fellow rookie cornerback Bilhal Kone on IR. Longerbeam, who hadn’t practiced since July 31, tallied 45 tackles, 11 passes defensed and two interceptions last season at Rutgers. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

Despite having one of the best overall rosters in the NFL, the Ravens have two positions that should be under the microscope Saturday night in the second preseason game against the Cowboys in Dallas: Offensive guard and weak-side linebacker. The Ravens have solid starting guards in Andrew Vorhees on the left side and Daniel Faalele on the right, but they have very little depth if either one falters. On defense, third-year player Trenton Simpson is expected to start at weak-side linebacker. Like Vorhees and Faalele, Simpson has improved from a year ago, but he didn’t dominate against Indianapolis in the preseason opener. The Ravens don’t have a lot of depth at either position. A year ago, Baltimore had Chris Board and Malik Harrison, who replaced Simpson after Week 13. Now, they only have free agent addition Jake Hummel or maybe rookie Teddye Buchanan. The options aren’t good, so the Ravens need Vorhees, Faalele and Simpson to play well. Let’s start with Faalele, the fourth-year guard out of Minnesota. He is about 25 to 30 pounds lighter and has moved and played reasonably well throughout training camp, though he did get trucked last week by Colts third-year defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore. It was like a giant Redwood tree getting cut down. Of course, social media had a field day with the 6-foot-8, 370-pound Faalele falling to the ground. But everything must be kept in perspective. On a given play, a lot of NFL players can look bad, downright ridiculous at times. But pass blocking has never been Faalele’s strength. He is a mountain mover, a huge run blocker. I’ve been against that philosophy for years, but coach John Harbaugh prefers that strategy. It’s great when the run blocking is good and the play-action pass works, but that puts a lot of pressure on the quarterback. So, who would replace Faalele? It would be fifth-year player Ben Cleveland, who is also a mauler and limited in space as well. In fact, it might be better to pull out a calendar as opposed to a stopwatch when both players pull around the corner and try to get downfield. That’s when quarterback Lamar Jackson makes the difference. He can improvise and scramble and make something out of nothing when pressured, which he did against Kansas City in the Ravens’ 27-20 loss to open last season and again in the second half against Buffalo in the 27-25 divisional round loss. Both Faalele and Cleveland have limitations, but the Ravens like to strong arm teams. The dropped weight has been a big plus for Faalele so far in training camp. Related Articles Ravens stock report: Who’s trending up, down heading into Dallas? Chiefs WR Rashee Rice eligible to play first 4 games, including vs. Ravens Ravens, Commanders ‘mutually agree’ to cancel joint practice READERS RESPOND: Fans say it’s Super Bowl or bust for Ravens in 2025 Ravens could have a 3-headed monster at RB. How is that going to work? “I’m so proud of Daniel,” Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken said. “He worked hard in the offseason and came to camp in great shape. I think I was talking earlier that we’re excited for Daniel. He’s come a long way. He is a really, really good football player. In today’s day and age, shock value, whatever’s seen for one shot on the Internet doesn’t make a man, or a great play doesn’t make a man.” But let’s be honest. When does a coach say anything bad about a player in training camp? Monken is also smart enough to realize that he’ll have to play with Faalele for the rest of the season unless Faalele gets hurt. This case is closed. As for Vorhees, he showed improvement last week against the Colts. He ran well, made some nice seal blocks and got into the second level. He didn’t have a defensive tackle over top of him for quite a few pass plays, but he held his ground well and seemed very comfortable protecting backup quarterbacks Cooper Rush and Devin Leary. Simpson is more intriguing. He hasn’t played poorly, but he didn’t make enough plays to be overly impressive in the Colts game. Unlike a year ago, when he’d get lost in coverage, he seems to read his keys while dropping back. The Ravens, though, have options with Simpson. Because the league has become so pass happy, the Ravens could replace Simpson with strong safety Kyle Hamilton or even cornerback Marlon Humphrey, putting both near the line of scrimmage. The Ravens can make that move because of the surplus of cornerbacks including Jalyn Armour-Davis and Jaire Alexander. But, overall, the Ravens prefer that Simpson dominate on first-down situations when teams prefer to run. Ravens linebacker Trenton Simpson is learning how to play on the weak side. (Kenneth K. Lam/staff) Simpson seems to be on the right learning curve, according to former Ravens weak-side linebacker Jamie Sharper. Sharper played for the Ravens from 1997 to 2001 on one of the best defenses in NFL history. He is now the linebackers and special teams coach for the DC Defenders of the UFL. “I think the Ravens might have him out of position to where he played at Clemson,” Sharper said of Simpson, who mostly played as a rush linebacker but also on the strong side and even at safety at times. “He is now on his second linebackers coach and it might take two years to teach him to play weak side instead of coming off the edge as a rusher. “For one, you have to have athletic ability and be able to move your feet and tackle in space. You have to know when you can get safety help, know where he is so he can cover up. You have to be a space guy and drop into coverages. He is a good kid but at Clemson he was a guy that could rush off the edge and this has been a change for him.” It’s part of a process. Former Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen was a weak-side linebacker at LSU, but the Ravens moved him to the middle. Faalele was a 400-pound offensive tackle at Minnesota. Now, it’s Simpson’s turn. Unfortunately, the Ravens don’t have a lot of solid backups at either guard or weak-side linebacker. It’s something to keep an eye on Saturday night, and probably for the rest of the season. Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice will have a disciplinary hearing with the NFL on Sept. 30 in New York, a person with knowledge of the schedule told The Associated Press on Thursday. The person, speaking on condition of anonymity because the details haven’t been announced, said Sue L. Robinson is scheduled to hear Rice’s case. Robinson is a former U.S. district judge who serves as the disciplinary officer jointly appointed by the NFL and NFL Players Association. It’s the second time under the 2020 collective bargaining agreement that the league and the players’ union haven’t agreed on length of discipline, sending the case to Robinson. She presided over Deshaun Watson’s case in 2022. Rice still has to serve a 30-day jail sentence in the future for causing a chain-reaction crash last year on a Dallas highway that left multiple people injured. He already agreed to pay more than $1 million in a settlement with the victims. Rice is returning from a knee injury that cut short his sophomore season in the NFL after a standout rookie campaign. He would be eligible to play the first four games, including a Super Bowl rematch against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 2 and a matchup against the Ravens in Week 4, before his hearing. ESPN was first to report the date of Rice’s upcoming hearing. View the full article

The Ravens and Commanders have canceled their joint practice that was scheduled for next Thursday in Ashburn, Virginia. The announcement was made Thursday shortly before noon. “Recognizing the logistical challenges — with our teams’ previous games scheduled on different days — and the added strain on players heading into a short week, the Ravens and Commanders mutually agreed to no longer hold a joint practice next week,” the Ravens said in a statement. “Instead, we will concentrate on preparing for our upcoming preseason matchup.” That means that after Baltimore’s preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys on Saturday night at AT&T Stadium, the Ravens will have four days of practice in Owings Mills before their Aug. 23 preseason finale against the Commanders at Northwest Stadium. “Sometimes just schedules don’t sync up as it hits,” Commanders coach Dan Quinn told reporters Thursday. “So, I visited with [Ravens coach John Harbaugh] last night and he’s always choosing the best choices for the players. So, every once in a while, it just doesn’t sync up. And so, we’re bummed. We’ve got a lot of respect for them and were looking forward to it. But, we’ll get to see them a couple of days later after that.” The two teams last had a joint practice against each other in 2023 in Owings Mills. Several scuffles broke out over the two days of practices, including one in which Ravens tight end Mark Andrews slammed Danny Johnson to the ground and the cornerback suffered a rotator cuff strain. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

We asked readers earlier this week if it’s “Super Bowl or bust” for the Ravens in 2025. Here are the results from our online poll: Yes — 87.3% (138 votes) No — 12.7% (20 votes) Here’s what some fans have told us about the Ravens’ lofty 2025 expectations (answers have been edited for clarity and grammar): Just like the Orioles, this is their window for a championship. Hopefully their season will not resemble in any way, shape or form the 2025 Orioles. Keeping fingers crossed for no significant injuries. — Robert I would definitely call this year “our need” to go all the way. I know we will have a good season. I hope they stick to the recipe of hard run plays interspersed with Lamar Jackson’s great passing. Our wide receiver room is well stacked. Our backfield looks excellent with “King Henry” leading the way. I think Lamar really has something to prove this year. I believe he has the mindset to close this year out with our third trophy. We’ve come so close the past two years, and I think he’s got it figured out this year! We’ve got a great new kicker, so all the pieces are there. So yes, John Harbaugh is gonna throw everything at every team and hopefully for Baltimore fans like me it’ll salve some of the pain from the Orioles’ disastrous season, though that’s another story. — Rob Baker The two best NFL teams with the two best quarterbacks will meet in the Super Bowl — the Ravens and Commanders. How exciting that will be for all Marylanders! — Robin Ficker The Ravens are built for success. A Super Bowl is definitely in their future, hopefully sooner rather than later. — Jeff Smith No. Bust??? That is reserved for teams that don’t get to play in the postseason. Not getting to the Super Bowl this year would definitely be very disappointing. The fans that said “bust” evidently don’t remember those years when the Colts and Ravens seasons were over in December. I just want teams that I am proud of and enjoy pulling for. — Stephen Daryl Smith It’s too early to say. Let them play some ball first. — Kenneth Worsely Yes! Definitely this year. — Karim Amin The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To see results from previous sports polls, go to baltimoresun.com/sportspoll Related Articles Ravens, Commanders ‘mutually agree’ to cancel joint practice Ravens could have a 3-headed monster at RB. How is that going to work? Taylor Swift’s ‘Welcome to the NFL’ moment happened in Baltimore: ‘It was so magical’ Ravens observations: Lamar Jackson to Rashod Bateman connection in rhythm Ravens star Lamar Jackson is finally ranked a Tier 1 QB. Here’s why. View the full article

Derrick Henry practices like a rookie at age 31, while Justice Hill is considered to be the Ravens running backs’ junkyard dog. Those two teamed up to form the NFL’s most productive backfield by total rushing yards and yards per carry last season. Add Keaton Mitchell to the mix — nearly two years removed from ACL surgery, lauded as being “back to himself” this training camp — and Baltimore enters this fall with what could be a dangerous three-headed monster in a backfield that also features dual threat quarterback Lamar Jackson. The question then becomes, how do you maximize all that talent? Henry is Baltimore’s primary running back, coming off an 18-touchdown season (16 rushing, two receiving) 79 rushing yards shy of what would have been his second career 2,000-yard campaign. He’s the old school bell cow back — one of the few left in today’s NFL. Hill is historically the go-to third-down back. A downtick in practice touches and the fact that he didn’t suit up for the first preseason game last week is an example on how far he’s come, stamping his place as RB2 after clocking 611 total yards last season. He specializes as a receiving back and undersized pass blocker. It earned him a two-year, $6 million extension last September. “When it comes to Derrick and Justice, we have a good rotation going,” running backs coach Willie Taggart said. “… We can try to find different ways to get [Mitchell] the football so he can do his thing.” The thinking, as of mid-August and assuming everyone is healthy, is that Hill will be the one to temper Henry’s snap count in hopes of saving his best football for January. Adding Mitchell will require some creative shuffling to get him the football. He’s certainly proved his worth this month. Mitchell shined in the early days of training camp practice. He showed out in the first joint practice then again with a nine-carry, 68-yard performance against Indianapolis in the preseason opener. While he hasn’t practiced since for undisclosed reasons, what Mitchell has put on tape is emblematic of the one who could be the shiftiest option out of Baltimore’s backfield. Couple that with what Taggart noticed has been a renewed confidence — an affable energy — walking around the building could prove to make Mitchell difficult to keep off the field. Taggart pointed out Mitchell has been “much better” in pass protection and his whole body looks stronger, not just the knee. “It’s our job to get the best players on the field,” offensive coordinator Todd Monken said. “Our ability to be versatile, not only by run-pass modes, it’s also by who’s out there, what grouping [and] what do we do out of each group. But, we certainly have to look at that a lot more as we continue to move forward.” Special teams is the most obvious path to be sure Mitchell gets consistent touches. Ravens running back Derrick Henry practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens assistant head coach and running back coach Willie Taggart speaks with the media after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Derrick Henry, right, runs during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Justice Hill works out during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Rasheen Ali practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Show Caption1 of 5Ravens running back Derrick Henry practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Expand Last year, Hill noticeably stopped taking reps on kick return. “I’m not gonna lie, I do kinda miss it,” he said. Special teams gave him the foundation that he turned into a full-time role out of Baltimore’s backfield. Mitchell’s path may look similar. He fielded three kick returns for 64 yards last week against the Colts. With a logjam in the backfield, Mitchell’s touches may be most prudent via special teams. As Monken says often, the surplus of talent is a good problem to have. Hill razzes Henry about his stature in the game, seeing that he’s bound for the Hall of Fame. Henry attacks every day with a straight face and insatiable hunger. So much so that Hill sometimes reminds him to smile more. Related Articles Taylor Swift took first steps on NFL football field in Baltimore: ‘It was so magical’ Ravens observations: Lamar Jackson to Rashod Bateman connection in rhythm Ravens star Lamar Jackson is finally ranked a Tier 1 QB. Here’s why. Ravens’ Lamar Jackson ends trademark battle with Troy Aikman over No. 8 Josh Tolentino: Michael Phelps shares Olympic mindset with Ravens | COMMENTARY They learn a lot from one another in that group. Taggart said Hill was paramount in helping Henry acclimate to Baltimore last season. Hill said it’s “cool to see the difference between a normal guy in the league” and someone who will one day have his own bust in Canton, Ohio. And Mitchell is backfilling Hill’s promotion, “doing all the dirty work,” he said recently. “[Monken] is good at putting all the guys in the right spot to maximize their abilities,” Hill said. “It’s just gonna be exciting to see because we continue to add to the offense. You can tell everybody’s getting a lot more comfortable.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

Pop superstar Taylor Swift touched grass for the first time on the field at M&T Bank Stadium last year and she hasn’t forgotten the “magical” moment. Swift, appearing Wednesday on New Heights, the podcast hosted by her boyfriend Travis Kelce and his brother Jason, said that she made “cherished memories” in Baltimore when she visited last January to watch Travis and the Chiefs take on the Ravens in the AFC championship game. “What is your welcome to the NFL moment?” Jason Kelce asked Swift, who thought about it for mere seconds. “I’d say it was the first time I stepped on the field, when he won the AFC Championship” she said, just as Travis chimed in: “Baltimore.” Describing her excitement about the game, which her boyfriend’s Chiefs won, Swift said she was surprised when Travis’ mom, Donna Kelce, said they were leaving their suite to go down to the field for the celebration. “Did he say that’s OK? … Is he gonna be like ‘what are you doing down here dude?’”Swift asked his mom, who assured her that Travis would want her there on the field. Travis said he didn’t want to jinx a win, so the couple never discussed what would happen if his team won. Swift, who also announced her new album, “The Life of a Showgirl” on the podcast, said that moment was “euphoric.” “So I’m walking out on this field and it’s like ‘oh my God, oh my God, oh my God,” Swift explained. “There’s so many lights. I’ve never seen this many cameras. I’ve never seen this much media in my life and I’ve seen a lot of media.” “It’s one of my most cherished memories because I was so proud of you,” Swift told Travis. “It was so magical,” she said, later adding “I had such a good rookie year. It was crazy.” Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs (L) celebrates with Taylor Swift after defeating the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship Game at M&T Bank Stadium on January 28, 2024 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) Have a news tip? Send it to nzimmerman@baltsun.com. View the full article

For quarterback Cooper Rush, the prospect was tantalizing. After spending his first seven seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, he considered returning to owner Jerry Jones’ team as the backup once again. Then the Ravens called “out of nowhere” early in free agency, and that was that. Two very different organizations headed in largely different directions. “A chance to go on really good team, that if you gotta to go in there you can go win games and win important games,” Rush said Wednesday in his first meeting with reporters when asked about his decision to sign with Baltimore this offseason. “A team that’s in it, a team that’s got tons of weapons at every position. All those go into it. It was an exciting process.” Rush, 31, isn’t nearly as exciting as Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, a two-time NFL Most Valuable Player, but he’s “a professional,” coach John Harbaugh said. “Operates the offense well, makes great decisions, handles the protections, gets the ball out on time, accurate passer,” Harbaugh said. “I think he’s a winning quarterback.” On Wednesday, he showed off some of those skills. During one 11-on-11 period, Rush zipped a pass over the middle to an in-cutting Keith Kirkwood for a nice chunk gain. In one-on-one play, he was accurate and showed some touch, even if Malik Cunningham and Devontez Walker didn’t help him out with the former dropping a pass and the latter slipping and falling on the route. Still, Rush had some moments, including a nice back-shoulder completion to wide receiver Anthony Miller with rookie safety Malaki Starks in coverage. He also had some down moments. Rush was intercepted by cornerback T.J. Tampa on one pass intended for receiver Xavier Guillory during another 11-on-11 period. Still, he’s starting to find his rhythm in the offense. Harbaugh also indicated that he’ll get more opportunities than the four passes he attempted last week in the preseason opener against the Indianapolis Colts when the Ravens play the Cowboys on Saturday night at AT&T Stadium. Rush said that he doesn’t view the reunion as a revenge game, rather a chance to try to impress his new team. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson runs onto field during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson runs onto field during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens safety Beau Brade, left, and cornerback Nate Wiggins during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens safety Beau Brade works out during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Justice Hill speaks with the media after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens quarterback Cooper Rush speaks with the media after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens assistant head coach and running back coach Willie Taggart speaks with the media after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens head coach John Harbaugh speaks with the media after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens quarterback Copper Rush throws during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Rasheen Ali practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Derrick Henry practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, left, hands off the ball to running back Derrick Henry during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Justice Hill works out during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Derrick Henry, right, runs during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Derrick Henry, right, runs drills in front of coach Willie Taggart during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens back-up quarterback Cooper Rush practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens assistant head coach Willie Taggart, left, practices with running back Justice Hill during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens assistant head coach and running back coach Willie Taggart conducts practice during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens running back Justice Hill, left, receives hand-off from quarterback Cooper Rush, right, during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens backup quarterback Cooper Rush throws during training camp. Rush spoke to reporters Wednesday and explained why the Ravens were the best fit for him in free agency. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, second left, poses with young fans as head coach John Harbaugh, right, takes pictures during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson throws a pass as coach Tee Martin, right, watches during training camp. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, from right, introduces quarterback Lamar Jackson to a young fan during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Show Caption1 of 23Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson runs onto field during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center (Kenneth K. Lam/staff)Expand Lamar Jackson, Rashod Bateman in rhythm Harbaugh called this an “improvement” and “opportunity” week, and that was on display at times Wednesday for some of the wide receivers — and especially with the timing between Jackson and Rashod Bateman. About midway through practice and on the first play of an 11-on-11 period from the defense’s 40-yard line, Jackson dropped back and launched a perfectly timed pass up the sideline to Bateman, who got behind cornerback Chidobe Awuzie and safety Sanoussi Kane to haul it in for a touchdown. It was one of many connections between Jackson and Bateman, with Bateman racking up seven catches on eight targets during 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 periods. Receivers stacking cornerbacks and giving space for throws up the sideline, the depth of routes and spacing against zone coverage were just some of the “little details” that Harbaugh was particularly pleased with in the passing game. “You wonder why all of a sudden why the passing game starts to look better and better,” he said. “You see it’s the details of the route running a lot of the times.” Bateman, one of the best separators and deep threats in the NFL last season, has been Baltimore’s best deep performer throughout training camp. One-on-one highlights One-on-one play is entertaining, if nothing else. It gives quarterbacks, receivers and, to some extent, defensive backs a chance to strut their stuff. Two connections in particular stood out Wednesday. First, Jackson dropped a beauty of a pass to receiver Zay Flowers, who had a step on cornerback Nate Wiggins, on a deep ball up the sideline. Later, Rush found a wide-open Guillory after the receiver faked out fellow rookie Keondre Jackson at the line of scrimmage with a stutter-step that the safety bit too hard on. In the Loop After essentially getting the day off during Tuesday’s walk-through practice, rookie kicker Tyler Loop was back to work Wednesday, and the results were mixed. The sixth-round draft pick out of Arizona’s first attempt of the day during team play, a 46-yarder, sailed wide right. After that, though, he found his rhythm. In the kicking period, he rattled off makes from 33, 38, 41, 46 (which glanced the right upright) and 52 yards. He also made two more, from 35 and 25 yards, in pair of team periods. But in a “Bonsai” 45-yard attempt as time expired, Loop again missed right. The most interesting kick of the day, however, came early in practice when Harbaugh put the team through a rare free kick scenario and Loop connected from 67 yards with room to spare. It was just one of many situational drills on the afternoon. “You try to get it all practiced as much as you can,” Harbaugh said of the various scenarios. “Then when it comes up during the course of season with other teams, you always show it to them and review it with them and try to remind them about it.” Related Articles Ravens star Lamar Jackson is finally ranked a Tier 1 QB. Here’s why. Ravens’ Lamar Jackson ends trademark battle with Troy Aikman over No. 8 Josh Tolentino: Michael Phelps shares Olympic mindset with Ravens | COMMENTARY Ravens legend Ray Lewis attends practice, delivers message to team Meet the Ravens’ ‘X’s and O’s guy’ behind their rising pass rush Last season, the Los Angeles Chargers’ Cameron Dicker made the longest fair catch free kick in NFL history when he converted a 57-yarder against the Denver Broncos. That broke the previous record of 52 yards by Paul Hornung of the Green Bay Packers in 1962 on the seldom-used play, which allows a team that has just made a fair catch to attempt a field goal with the defense 10 yards away from the line of scrimmage. Attendance Cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis was a new absence. Others not practicing included wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, safety Kyle Hamilton, cornerback Jaire Alexander, running back Keaton Mitchell, running back Marcus Major Jr., linebacker William Kwenkeu, tight end Isaiah Likely and rookie offensive tackle Emery Jones Jr. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Seven seasons later, Lamar Jackson has officially made it. We’re talking, of course, about the annual quarterback tiers by The Athletic’s Mike Sando, which for the first time has Jackson ranked in Tier 1. In a poll of 50 anonymous NFL coaches and executives, the Ravens’ superstar received 46 top-tier votes, double his total from the previous year. That placed him fourth overall behind the Kansas City Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes (tied for No. 1), the Cincinnati Bengals’ Joe Burrow (T-1) and the Buffalo Bills’ Josh Allen (No. 3) and ahead of the Los Angeles Rams’ Matthew Stafford (No. 5) in Tier 1. The Washington Commanders’ Jayden Daniels leads Tier 2 at No. 6. Jackson, 28, was ranked in Tier 4 ahead of his breakout 2019 season, in which he led the Ravens to an NFL-best 14-2 record and earned his first league Most Valuable Player Award. He was then ranked in Tier 2 for five years in a row despite winning a second MVP Award in 2023. So, what changed? In 2024, with offensive coordinator Todd Monken calling the plays for the second straight year, Jackson nearly won a third MVP Award as he became the first quarterback in NFL history to pass for at least 4,000 yards and rush for at least 900 in the same season. He set career highs in passing yards (4,172), touchdown passes (41) and passer rating (119.6) while throwing a career-low four interceptions and leading the Ravens to a 12-5 record and the AFC North title. However, his team came up short in the postseason once again in a 27-25 divisional round loss to the Bills marred by three turnovers and a crucial drop by tight end Mark Andrews on the potential game-tying 2-point conversion. Jackson is now 3-5 in the playoffs in his career with just one trip to the AFC championship game. To some, his growth has been evident. “Lamar has really done a great job, and I do not think it has been him that has let them down [in the playoffs],” a defensive coordinator told The Athletic. “It has been other parts of their team. He has taken leaps and bounds in the last couple years.” In the rankings, a Tier 1 quarterback is defined as someone who “can carry his team each week. The team wins because of him. He expertly handles pure-passing situations. He has no real holes in his game.” In addition to Mahomes, Allen and Burrow, Aaron Rodgers, Justin Herbert, Tom Brady, Russell Wilson, Deshaun Watson, Drew Brees, Andrew Luck, Philip Rivers and Ben Roethlisberger have all been ranked in Tier 1 at some point during Jackson’s career as a starter dating to the end of the 2018 season. Although Jackson is 70-24 in his career, a three-time All-Pro selection and the best rushing threat in the history of the position, he’s previously been criticized for his passing ability under pressure and checkered injury history after missing time in 2022 and 2021 with ankle and knee ailments, respectively. There are fewer doubters now, at least among The Athletic’s subset of voters. “There was doubt before because it was off-schedule, it was running, it’s not sustainable, they have a great defense, they have this, they have that,” another 2025 voter said. “The offense has put the ball in his hands more, to sling the ball around.” On Tuesday, Monken said that Jackson’s improvements this summer have been “subtle.” “I think with every year that we’re running the same offense, and we’re together, we communicate better, [and we] get to learn each other better,” Monken said. “But his command at the line of scrimmage — I think he’s doing a better job with our guys consistently, what he expects from them and being on the same page, so you can just see that part of it.” In July, Ravens coach John Harbaugh said that Jackson’s “window to improve is pretty big” considering the quarterback’s age and experience. He later called Jackson a “historically good passer” in an interview with ESPN. Related Articles Ravens’ Lamar Jackson ends trademark battle with Troy Aikman over No. 8 Josh Tolentino: Michael Phelps shares Olympic mindset with Ravens | COMMENTARY Ravens legend Ray Lewis attends practice, delivers message to team Meet the Ravens’ ‘X’s and O’s guy’ behind their rising pass rush Ravens pass rusher David Ojabo is ‘an upside guy.’ Will it be enough? “He’s not one of these guys that says, ‘I’m there, I’ve arrived.’ He never looks at it that way,” Harbaugh said. “He always looks at what [he can] do to get better.” In ESPN’s survey of league executives, coaches and scouts earlier this summer, Jackson also ranked fourth among quarterbacks behind Mahomes, Allen and Burrow with some evaluators knocking Jackson’s skills as a pocket passer while others praised his statistics and winning percentage. The Associated Press also surveyed eight of its pro football writers before the season, and Jackson once again ranked fourth behind the same trio. With Jackson at the helm, the Ravens enter the 2025 season among the betting favorites to win the Super Bowl. Baltimore opens the season Sept. 7 on “Sunday Night Football” in a playoff rematch against the Bills in Orchard Park, New York. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. View the full article

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has withdrawn his challenge to Hall of Fame quarterback Troy Aikman’s trademark use of the No. 8. In a decision to dismiss the case published Tuesday, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office revealed that the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player filed to withdraw the challenge Monday after originally filing the challenge in July 2024. Jackson’s initial opposition to Aikman’s application to trademark the No. 8 — featured prominently on clothing and other merchandise associated with the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback — argued that Aikman’s trademark would ultimately create a false connection with himself, since he wears the No. 8 jersey for the Ravens and produces his own merchandise and branding featuring the number. The move comes as Jackson continues a separate trademark battle with NASCAR Hall of Famer Dale Earnhardt Jr. over the same number, a case still pending before the USPTO. Jackson has registered marks including “ERA 8” and “ERA 8 BY LAMAR JACKSON” for apparel, bags and athletic gear, while Earnhardt Jr.’s application seeks similar protections for clothing and toy products. Have a news tip? Contact Mathew Schumer at mschumer@baltsun.com, 443-890-7423 or @mmmschumer on X. Related Articles Buddy Marucci, chairman of BMW Championship, is a renowned amateur golfer Varsity Q&A: Chesapeake boys soccer forward Byron Klohr wants more Orioles haven’t begun Camden Yards ground lease talks with deadline ahead Navy football: Predicting 5 breakout players on defense Varsity Q&A: Arjun Mistry stepped into No. 1 spot for Liberty tennis View the full article

The most decorated Olympian in history made a special appearance at the Under Armour Performance Center on Tuesday. For a team chasing its own championship dreams, Michael Phelps’ visit was more than a celebrity cameo. It served as an opportunity for the Ravens to absorb unique insight from a local legend who truly understands what it takes to sustain greatness over decades. And for this particular team, his message might be more relevant than ever. Baltimore last year produced one of the most productive seasons in NFL history … only to choke when it mattered most, with the Ravens committing an uncharacteristic three turnovers in its infamous loss to the Bills in the divisional round. Phelps, who grew up in Rodgers Forge and trained at the Meadowbrook Aquatic Center throughout his prolific career, talked about perfecting preparation during his post-practice speech to the team. “It was great having a legend here, he is the best swimmer of all-time,” Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr said. “As an Olympic gold medalist, regardless of sport, Michael Phelps — you have to speak his name. It was neat having him talk to us because the message … that’s one thing when you listen to the greats, you wonder how do they do such great things in the highest-tense moments? It all leads back to the work that nobody sees. That’s what Michael Phelps talked about: preparation. “It’s great for our guys to hear that because it’s one thing to hear it from somebody, a quote or book you read. But to physically see and hear that person up close, and to know all the things that person accomplished is great, man. I can’t thank him enough for coming to talk to our team.” Phelps’ mindset, one that features a special type of preparation so thorough that any outside noise can’t rattle you, is something that the Ravens need to take with them throughout the expected grind of a strenuous season. Coach John Harbaugh has long believed in off-the-field activities and its effect on team chemistry and culture. Harbaugh previously has hosted barbecue dinners at his home, invited other guests to speak with his team and visited the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Team bonding doesn’t only happen in the huddle, but it also can occur through special messages like the one the Ravens received from Phelps. Visits like these help break the regiment of training camp. They help spark conversations that aren’t about coverages or protections, but rather mindset and resilience. It was fitting that Phelps’ drop-in fell on what Harbaugh described as a “mental practice.” Phelps, sporting a Ravens cap and a pair of Nike “What The Kobe” 8s, observed most of Tuesday’s practice while seated from the 10-yard line with his son, Beckett. His attendance was sparked by an outcry on social media from veteran defensive back Marlon Humphrey, who playfully invited Phelps to teach players to swim in the team’s new recovery pool (safety Kyle Hamilton estimates that only one-third of the team knows how to swim). After Tuesday’s practice, Phelps led the Ravens in a team-bonding activity that featured swim lessons and a dive contest at nearby Loyola University. Lessons aside, Phelps’ presence should provide a lasting impact across the team’s locker room. Throughout his storied career, Phelps, 40, understood that even in a sport as solitary as swimming, individual talent could only take him so far. He notably relied on his team of coaches, nutritionists and relay mates. Similarly, the Ravens are fully aware that it takes a full-team effort to push forward — or fall short — when it matters most. Related Articles Ravens legend Ray Lewis attends practice, delivers message to team Meet the Ravens’ ‘X’s and O’s guy’ behind their rising pass rush Ravens pass rusher David Ojabo is ‘an upside guy.’ Will it be enough? Josh Tolentino: Rest or rust? Ravens preseason is no debate. | COMMENTARY Ravens observations: Developmental players flash upside; backup QBs improve For Phelps, the margin between gold and silver was often a fraction of a second. Yet he earned his status as the most decorated athlete in history by claiming 28 Olympic medals, including 23 golds, over five Summer Games thanks to his preparation, composure and mental fortitude. His frequent presence on the podium is where the Ravens aspire to be — not drowned in repeated playoff heartbreak. If the Ravens can carry that Phelps mindset into the 2025 season, they might finally stop letting their moment slip away. Have a news tip? Contact Josh Tolentino at jtolentino@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200, x.com/JCTSports and instagram.com/JCTSports. Michael Phelps, a 23-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer, visits the Ravens' practice. Phelps spoke to the team and later gave swimming lessons. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) View the full article

A 23-time Olympic gold medalist was in the house Tuesday at Ravens practice in Owings Mills, and he wasn’t alone. Michael Phelps was there for the Marlon Humphrey-orchestrated swimming lessons after the cornerback showed off the team’s new pool on social media and prodded the 40-year-old Baltimore native. But it was another familiar legend who drew plenty of attention. Ray Lewis, the Hall of Fame linebacker who was integral to the Ravens’ two Super Bowl titles, signed autographs and took pictures in one of the last training camp practices open to fans. Players got some face time with the two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year and seven-time All-Pro, too. Among them was quarterback and two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson. “Every time I’m making you come out of that spot every time because I know how dynamic you are from the spot,” Lewis told Jackson, motioning to his position in the pocket. “So I want you to be rattled everywhere.” Lewis, 50, also reminisced about the first time he met safety Kyle Hamilton, who was back at practice for the first time in a week, chatted with wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, hung out with Phelps and chatted with professional golfers Chris Gotterup, Michael Kim and Andrew Novak, who are all in town for this week’s BMW Championship at nearby Caves Valley. Former Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis visits practice and signs autographs for fans. Lewis, a two-time Super Bowl champion, also spoke to the team. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Former Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis visits practice and signs autographs for fans. Lewis, a two-time Super Bowl champion, also spoke to the team. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Former Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis visits practice and signs autographs for fans. Lewis, a two-time Super Bowl champion, also spoke to the team. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Show Caption1 of 3Former Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis visits practice and signs autographs for fans. Lewis, a two-time Super Bowl champion, also spoke to the team. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff)Expand The appearance by Lewis was also a “surreal” one for Baltimore defensive coordinator Zach Orr. Orr, 33, played linebacker for the Ravens from 2014 to 2016 before congenital spine and neck condition cut his career short. He still remembers the cut-ups of Lewis that coaches showed during defensive meetings. “I grew up watching him as a kid,” Orr said, adding he didn’t know Lewis would be making an appearance. “He has plenty of pictures — plenty of honors around the building — so I think it’s great for guys who haven’t had a chance to meet him or see him up close to feel his presence.” Lewis also had a message for current players. “It was about, ‘Don’t skip any steps. The preparation is what’s going to lead you to success,’” Orr said, unaware that Lewis would be in the building. “I was fired up.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Related Articles Josh Tolentino: Michael Phelps shares Olympic mindset with Ravens | COMMENTARY Meet the Ravens’ ‘X’s and O’s guy’ behind their rising pass rush Ravens pass rusher David Ojabo is ‘an upside guy.’ Will it be enough? Josh Tolentino: Rest or rust? Ravens preseason is no debate. | COMMENTARY Ravens observations: Developmental players flash upside; backup QBs improve View the full article

David Ojabo tapped two fingers against his temple and said, “he got the mentals, man.” Tavius Robinson tacked on to say that outside linebackers coach Matt Robinson is one of the smartest coaches that he’s ever been around. The pass rush group is headed by Chuck Smith, a boisterous guru with a doctorate in teaching knifing past offensive linemen to disrupt quarterbacks. His second in command is a Columbia native and University of Maryland graduate who specializes in the positional nuance. During practice, Matt is the one holding a pad and directing traffic for individual drills. Then he’ll dissect film in meetings. “[Matt] puts us in good positions to make plays on game days,” Tavius said. Broached for an example, Tavius laughed. He couldn’t spill playbook secrets that easily. But there were “a lot of big plays” Tavius made last year that he directly attributes to a previous conversation with Matt in a meeting room or on the practice field that manifested on Sunday. Matt has been an outside linebackers coach in Baltimore for five seasons. Monday was the first time he stepped in front of a microphone to field questions. Those seven-plus-minutes were spent unpacking the scratching and clawing it took to get a job with the Ravens while flipping through the rolodex of players he oversees. The “X’s and O’s guy,” as Ojabo called him, had plenty to report on nearly every individual at a crucial positional group for Baltimore’s defense — one that has outperformed expectations each of the past two seasons. Matt played wide receiver and linebacker at Atholton High School, where he earned first-team All-Metro honors from The Baltimore Sun. After five seasons at Maryland, Matt signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent in 2015 but suffered a hamstring injury during camp. So he pivoted to coaching. He started at Archbishop Spalding, then followed Randy Edsall to Connecticut before he returned to coach at Maryland for two seasons. Matt’s wife, Dallas, is close friends with Ravens outside linebackers coach Drew Wilkins’ wife. Both were Terps cheerleaders. That cracked the door open for a connection that became a promotion that kept him home. “While I was at Maryland, I was really trying to get a job here,” Matt said. “I was trying to contact anybody that would listen and give me an opportunity to put my head down and work.” Five years later, he’s left quite an impression. Ravens assistant coach Matt Robinson works with outside linebacker David Ojabo during practice last season. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Smith credited Matt for doing a “fantastic job teaching [Mike Green] in coverage and things like that.” Matt said Green, a controversial second-round draft pick, has been his biggest surprise in training camp thus far. “Mike Green really pops out on tape,” Matt said. “He plays with a relentless mindset. He’s tenacious at the point of attack. I think you guys have seen it in games, his ability to affect the play pretty much every time he’s in there. He’s gonna set a violent edge, get pressure on the quarterback and I really like where he’s at right now.” Tavius is another intriguing piece of this year’s Ravens pass rush. He’s improved year-over-year, setting up what could be a breakout season. For one, this was the first year Tavius did not play a single snap in the first preseason game, a far cry from playing “60 or 70 snaps” last preseason. “He’s more of a physical presence,” Matt said. “He’s a dominant edge setter for us and he’s been more of a power rusher in his first couple years. I think right now, he’s definitely working on some finesse moves on the edge that he can work in some of his transition rushes.” This fall could prove to be another step forward for Odafe Oweh, the fifth-year pass rusher who broke out with a double-digit sack season in 2024 then put on 20 more pounds. Matt sees someone who is “out to prove that he’s a top-5, top-10 edge guy in the league.” Related Articles Ravens pass rusher David Ojabo is ‘an upside guy.’ Will it be enough? Josh Tolentino: Rest or rust? Ravens preseason is no debate. | COMMENTARY Ravens observations: Developmental players flash upside; backup QBs improve READER POLL: Is it Super Bowl or bust for the Ravens this season? The art and science of Ravens WR Rashod Bateman’s route running Matt’s insight is perhaps most valuable for two guys a bit further down the depth chart. Both Ojabo and Adisa Isaac suffered injuries early in their careers. They’ve been put in the same bucket, having not played a ton of football at this level to show something. And for each, this is a valuable preseason to prove they belong. “They’re a lot alike in a lot of ways,” Matt said. “They’re both contact players. They’re long. They’re strong. They’re physical at the point of attack. They have really good power at the top of their rush.” Matt has seen Ojabo take steps forward but noted the 2022 second-round pick will get a “couple more opportunities to kind of prove” he can affect the game in different ways. Matt also gave a nod to Isaac showing a newfound physicality during training camp. If Smith is the pass rush room’s energetic leader, nicknamed “Dr. Rush,” then Matt is the local wunderkind second-in-command, uplifting that group from behind the scenes. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article