ExtremeRavens

Ravens wide receiver Keith Kirkwood, right, practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley, right, talks with Roger Rosengarten, left, during training camp practice 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, practices with running-back Derrick Henry during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley, right, talks with Roger Rosengarten, left, during training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Raven safety Kyle Hamilton, left, practices with cornerbacks during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens outside linebacker David Ojabo practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton, left, practices with Ar’Darius Washington, right, during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens outside linebacker David Ojabo practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens’ Keith Kirkwood, center, works out with the receivers group during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens wide receiver Keith Kirkwood, right, practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens wide-receiver Rashod Bateman practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, right, and his back-ups, Josh Johnson, from left, Devin Leary and Emory Jones practice during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton, right, hangs out with wide-receiver Rashod Bateman, left,during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens outside linebacker David Ojabo practices during training camp at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens running-back Derrick Henry speaks with media after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton speaks with reporter after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens running-back Derrick Henry speaks with media after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens head coach John Harbaugh speaks with media after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Ravens outside linebacker David Ojabo speaks with media after training camp practice at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) View the full article

When in Wisconsin, do what the Packers do. The Ravens are heading to Green Bay this week for a joint practice with the Packers on Thursday, giving quarterback Lamar Jackson and the rest of the starters who haven’t played in the preseason a chance to test themselves against an unfamiliar opponent. Baltimore players are also set to take part in a decades-old Green Bay tradition: riding bikes to practice. In what first started as a “spontaneous celebration” in 1958, kids are encouraged to bring their bikes to historic Lambeau Field to offer rides to Ravens and Packers players alike. Every Ravens player is expected to participate if there are enough bikes available, the Packers said, so fans and community members are asked to “welcome the team in true Green Bay fashion.” Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens observations on Adisa Isaac’s latest injury, Devontez Walker’s impressive day Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 20, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Hometown star Beau Brade hopes to beat the odds and make the Ravens Baltimore Ravens | Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has more energy, less fatigue and shakes off brief practice exit Baltimore Ravens | Ravens observations on upcoming joint practice with Packers, another OL combination and more The joint practice will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, and kids can line up near the visiting locker room entrance on the south side of Lambeau Field as early as 8 a.m. The Ravens will begin practice on Clarke Hinkle Field before joining the Packers on Ray Nitschke Field. Players will also ride bikes back to the locker room after practice. In recent years, the Packers have taken part in several joint practice sessions in conjunction with preseason games, hosting the Houston Texans, New York Jets, New Orleans Saints and New England Patriots in Green Bay. Houston was the only other team to fully take part in the bike tradition, largely because former defensive end J.J. Watt played at the University of Wisconsin. The Ravens will face the Packers in both teams’ preseason finale Saturday at 1 p.m. at Lambeau Field. Baltimore begins the regular season Sept. 5 at Kansas City to take on the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs, while Green Bay opens its season the following night against the Philadelphia Eagles in São Paulo, Brazil. View the full article

Few young football players get to live out their NFL dreams. Even fewer get to fulfill that prophecy on the team they grew up rooting for. Former River Hill and Maryland standout safety Beau Brade is vying to become the latest to join that group. As training camp nears its end and final cuts next Tuesday looming, Brade is fighting for his spot on the Ravens’ initial 53-man roster. One of five safeties on the 90-man roster, he grew up a Ravens fan, adopting many of his hard-hitting tendencies from Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis. Brade is looking to become the third River Hill graduate to play in the NFL, following in the footsteps of wide receiver Michael Campanaro and cornerback Kevin Johnson. Campanaro, who was selected in the seventh round of the 2014 NFL draft, appeared in 24 games for the Ravens from 2014 to 2017, while Johnson was a first-round draft pick in 2015 and played in 64 games for the Houston Texans, Buffalo Bills and Cleveland Browns from 2015 to 2020. Brade, who like Johnson was a Howard County Times Defensive Player of the Year as a high school senior, faces longer odds as an undrafted free agent. Through two preseason games, the safety is third on the team with 11 total tackles (seven solo) and a forced fumble. He finished with a team-high eight tackles in Saturday’s 13-12 win over the Atlanta Falcons. “It’s been better than I could’ve expected. Growing up, this is the team I wanted to play for,” Brade told The Baltimore Sun on Monday. “My time here, of course, it’s been a dream. But it wasn’t a dream to really get here, it’s a dream to stay here and get to Super Bowls. I’ve been doing all I can to make this team and become the best player that I can be. Not just for myself but for the team, whatever they need.” Brade’s NFL journey didn’t start as he had hoped. After leading the Terps in tackles each of the past two seasons, the Clarksville native did not hear his name called in April’s draft and then missed much of the spring with an ankle injury that he suffered in the first practice. Yet, he persevered, leaning on support from family — his father, Ron, played college football at Virginia Tech — and the team. Those challenges developed a chip on his shoulder. They also proved humbling and reinforced playing with a purpose, never knowing when it could be his last snap. “He has dealt with a few injuries. Quiet until we got him in the rookie skit. Then he wasn’t quiet anymore; he was funny. That was fun to see his personality even more,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Monday. “He’s stepped up. He’s covered well, but he’s also made some hits. That’s what I’ve enjoyed seeing on both defense and special teams.” While Brade has brought thunderous hits, he’s also showcased his personality. In the group rookie sketch, Brade and others reenacted and shared some jokes about Marlon Humphrey’s podcast “The Punchline Pod.” One of the guys portrayed Roquan Smith with help from special guests veteran defensive lineman Brent Urban and outside linebackers coach Chuck Smith. “Growing up, this is the team I wanted to play for,” Ravens safety Beau Brade, left, said. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Brade’s humorous side is a stark contrast to his personality in practice and on gamedays. The rookie prides himself on practicing how he would play in a game. Yet, suiting up on gameday for his favorite childhood team requires a delicate balance. He described running out of the tunnel before the preseason opener at M&T Bank Stadium against the Eagles on Aug. 9 as a “great feeling that hadn’t really sunk in yet.” Brade recognizes the magnitude of the accomplishment and the people who helped him get there. However, he doesn’t bask in its significance and treats it as any other game. That level-headed and hard-working mindset is ingrained in Brade’s DNA. He learned its value at a young age from his father and has built on it ever since. Brade vividly remembers watching Bud Foster’s hard-nosed Virginia Tech defenses as a kid and adopted that personality in his game. “Beau Brade has been great. He’s a locked-in young guy,” Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr said on Wednesday. “I love to see that as an undrafted free agent. We knew he was talented coming from Maryland, and all he’s done is come in and work. I know he had the injury in the spring, but ever since he’s been back, he’s continued to get better and better and better. I’m really excited about him.” Safety Beau Brade, right, faces an uphill battle to make the Ravens’ roster as an undrafted free agent. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Brade blended that edge with a consistent thirst for knowledge to acclimate to the NFL. He is learning from his coaches and the veterans in the defensive back room, specifically defensive backs Kyle Hamilton, Marcus Williams and Humphrey. “The other day, Marcus Williams helped me with some middle of the field stuff, just to make sure I’m ready when the game comes around,” Brade said. “It’s the little things that really matter. So, even if I think I did it right or it looked like it was almost right, I can ask them to give me a little bit more information and that will make the biggest difference in the world. Those guys are All-Pros and Pro Bowlers, big-time players. I love to learn from them. I’m humble and I’ll take advice from anybody.” Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has more energy, less fatigue and shakes off brief practice exit Baltimore Ravens | Ravens observations on upcoming joint practice with Packers, another OL combination and more Baltimore Ravens | Five things we learned from Ravens’ 13-12 preseason win over Atlanta Falcons Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens observations on Josh Johnson, young pass rushers, offensive line and more | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens rookie Adisa Isaac shows promise before exiting preseason debut: ‘He was a factor’ Still, Brade faces an uphill battle to make the roster. He’ll likely need to stand out on special teams to earn his spot considering the prowess of the Ravens’ defensive backfield. In Monday’s practice, Brade rotated in multiple roles on the punt team, including as the upback. That versatility will be tested this week as the Ravens travel to Green Bay for a joint practice Thursday with the Packers before Saturday’s preseason finale at Lambeau Field. As training camp nears its end, Brade’s mindset remains the same: leave everything out on the field. “I just hope to do everything in my control and my power to make the team,” Brade said. “Going out every rep, trying my hardest and playing all the way through the whistle and getting as close to the ball as I can every rep. If I do that, I can’t have any regrets whether I make the team or not and I’ll be happy with that.” Preseason finale Ravens at Packers Saturday, 1 p.m. TV: NBC Radio: 97.9 FM, 101.5 FM, 1090 AM View the full article

Midway through Monday’s practice, Lamar Jackson sat about 20 yards behind the wall of teammates watching 11-on-11 drills in the red zone. A trainer stood over the Ravens quarterback while he stretched his ankles. Baltimore’s starting quarterback and the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player went inside, missing about 10 minutes of the light practice, likely getting his ankles taped. He returned to the field, hopping right into seven-on-seven drills without hesitation. Jackson finished practice taking his normal reps without any noticeable setbacks. How does he feel after the brief, mid-practice exit? “I’m good. I’m wonderful. I’m great. I’m good,” he said confidently. The practice was a much calmer environment than the last few weeks have been, with Monday being the first day without fans roaring after every big play. While the defense seemed to still pounce at something closer to resembling game speed early, Jackson still made a few impressive plays. His best throw was a bomb down the right sideline to wide receiver Rashod Bateman for a touchdown. Two plays later, he went to veteran wideout Anthony Miller, a recent addition who continues to impress, for a 20-yard pickup against the right sideline. After that, Jackson overthrew Nelson Agholor in double coverage on a post route. His one interception of the day was a lob toward the back left corner of the end zone intended for Keith Kirkwood. Third-year cornerback Damarion Williams undercut the route and made a leaping grab for a pick. Jackson returned to the field against what was by then a more lax defense. He threaded an impressive ball through a seam to a streaking tight end Charlie Kolar up the left hash mark. He connected again with Bateman up the left sideline, beating coverage by rookie cornerback Nate Wiggins. Jackson hasn’t played in either of the Ravens’ first two preseason games and likely won’t play at 1 p.m. Saturday for the preseason finale in Green Bay. That’s in line with coach John Harbaugh’s precautionary decision to keep him out in recent years. “We want to put our best foot forward right out of the gates as much as we can,” Harbaugh said. Jackson will, however, finally see a defense that isn’t wearing purple during a joint practice with the Packers on Thursday — “I’m tired going against my guys,” he said. “I’m very competitive, so sometimes I do want to go play,” Jackson continued. “But at the same time, I know why our coaches are keeping us off the field; and I’d rather just play [the] regular season than going out there and things happen.” Jackson dropped a bit of weight from last year to this year, entering camp at 200 pounds. That’s reportedly 15 pounds slimmer than last year and 30 below his 2022 weight. The visibly slimmer Jackson has previously talked about becoming faster and more elusive. A visibly slimmer Lamar Jackson says he has more energy this year, saying, “I’m not fatigued as much. If I’m running 30 yards down the field, I can come back and just be like me, like a robot, even though I’m not a robot.” (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Some of that has been noticeable in camp thus far. He said it’s most noticeable returning to the huddle after a big play. “I’ve got a lot more energy,” Jackson said. “I’m not fatigued as much. If I’m running 30 yards down the field, I can come back and just be like me, like a robot, even though I’m not a robot. So yes, I’m feeling good. I just feel better, a lot better.” It’s the kind of change Jackson envisions making him even more dynamic. Last season, Jackson had a career-high 307 completions at his best percentage (67.2) for his most yards (3,678). He also had the third-most carries (148) of his career for the third-most yards (821). More energy and less fatigue are a dangerous boost to his already strong dual-threat capabilities. “Lamar Jackson does things that just don’t seem possible with the football in his hands,” Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning said at Fanatics Fest over the weekend. Soon-to-be Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady — who has previously criticized the league’s talent level — doubled down that Jackson “always impresses me as a player.” Jackson was asked his reaction to hearing such praise from two of the game’s best at his position. “That’s crazy,” he said, a bit bug-eyed. “That’s dope, especially coming from those guys. Those [are] guys who [are] on top of the Mount Rushmore right now, for me at least. That’s great — that’s great to hear that from the GOATs.” Jackson also hit on how excited he is about the start of the regular season with the playmakers around him. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens observations on upcoming joint practice with Packers, another OL combination and more Baltimore Ravens | Five things we learned from Ravens’ 13-12 preseason win over Atlanta Falcons Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens observations on Josh Johnson, young pass rushers, offensive line and more | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens rookie Adisa Isaac shows promise before exiting preseason debut: ‘He was a factor’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Tavius Robinson on key tackle | VIDEO He joked about always getting questions on running back Derrick Henry: “Just to see this guy do what he’s been doing since forever, I’m just ready,” he said. Jackson lauded the growing chemistry with many of his returning stars in the passing game heading into Year 2 leading Todd Monken’s offense. “I feel like this year,” Jackson said, “it’ll be different this go-around.” While assuring eager reporters that he’s fully healthy, digesting acclaim from legends and handing out compliments to teammates, one reporter noticed a significant tear in his undershirt. Jackson said it happened during a practice last week. He hugged the ball and darted through a hole in the offensive line when a defender tried to wrangle him down by his T-shirt. “I just kept running,” Jackson said. “But I’m going to say a bear tried to fight me, and I won. How about that?” Only 17 more days until he’ll face 11 bears dressed as Kansas City Chiefs defenders — a tall Week 1 test. View the full article

The Ravens have one more preseason game on Saturday in Green Bay, a final chance for the players on the fringe to prove they deserve a spot on the initial 53-man roster. But with a monumental opponent on the horizon in the regular-season opener, coach John Harbaugh said the Chiefs are starting to come into Baltimore’s focus. “We’re pointing toward two things,” he said. “We’re pointing toward Green Bay. And we’re also pointing toward Kansas City.” The Ravens will practice with the Packers on Thursday before their preseason finale. Joint practices have been commonplace under Harbaugh — Baltimore has done one eight of the past 10 years, but just once since 2021. They offer a unique test for teams that have become accustomed to battling their teammates in practice. That can get mundane. Energy, at times, is low, and each side gets used to the other’s tendencies. For the first time this summer, several starters will go against an opponent not wearing purple and black, the last time they’ll do so until they face the two-time defending Super Bowl champions to begin the NFL season on Sept. 5. But for that same reason, joint practices also present unique challenges. Aggression that’s festered with no way to release it could surface. The Ravens hope to avoid that. “If both teams come into it with the same idea, that they’re two good football teams trying to take advantage of the opportunity to practice against another good football team and get a good football practice in, that’s what you want,” Harbaugh said. “If the team’s coming in like, ‘We’re trying to prove something,’ some junior high thing, then it’s usually not good.” Injury report Mark Andrews didn’t practice Monday and hasn’t taken the field since his car accident on Wednesday. Harbaugh called the tight end’s situation “very minor” and said he “doesn’t want to mess with anything” by having Andrews practice. He’ll be with the team in Green Bay but might not see the field again until next week. Tyler Linderbaum is “right on schedule” with his recovery from a neck injury, Harbaugh said, but the center won’t be cleared for contact this week. The team remains hopeful he’ll be ready for the regular-season opener. Rookies Adisa Isaac, Devontez Walker and Rasheen Ali also did not practice on Monday. They all played sparingly in Saturday’s win over the Atlanta Falcons and are dealing with various ailments. Baltimore Ravens defensive ends Brent Urban, left and C.J. Ravenell block defensive end/defensive tackle Broderick Washington during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens safety Kyle Hamilton catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) The Baltimore Ravens line use rubber bands during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Travis Jones blocks nose tackle Michael Pierce during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens' Daniel Faalele sets during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman tosses the ball during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens' Roger Rosengarten during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens tackle Roger Rosengarten practices in front of quarterbacks Josh Johnson and Devin Leary during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson passes during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson holds out his hands to imaginary fans while emerging to participate in training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens safety Sanoussi Kane catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Yvandy Rigby during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Deion Jennings catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Members of the Baltimore Ravens offense listen to instructions during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson speaks to the media during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinatorZach Orr during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens safety Sanoussi Kane catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman holds the football during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens cornerback Brandon Stephens catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Ravens cornerback T.J. Tampa catches a ball during practice on Monday. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) A football tumbles through the air during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Show Caption1 of 22Baltimore Ravens defensive ends Brent Urban, left and C.J. Ravenell block defensive end/defensive tackle Broderick Washington during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Expand A sight to behold There are few things more frightening than having 6-foot-3, 247-pound Derrick Henry turn the corner on a toss play. But it’s even worse when 6-3 and 300-pound Patrick Ricard is the lead blocker. The Ravens ran counter several times Monday only to have Ricard pull. Other times, inside linebacker Deion Jennings and Yvandy Rigby took steps forward only to have Ricard block down on them. If these were game situations, both Jennings and Rigby might still be searching for teeth. More OL juggling The Ravens had yet another offensive line combination, with Nick Samac, a 2023 seventh-round draft pick, starting at center. The Ravens have had Patrick Mekari and Ben Cleveland (and others) there, but all these guys are agile and can make blocks into the second level. It’s still Linderbaum’s job, of course, but at least the Ravens have some solid backup candidates. Now, while on the subject of the offensive line: End Justin Madubuike embarrassed guard Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu several times on Monday. Not only did he beat the second-year guard several times during seven-on-seven action, but he also left right guard Daniel Faalele scratching his head and looking for answers during one-on-one pass protection drills. You can’t help but feel kind of bad for the Ravens’ offensive line at this point. They are going to miss line coach Joe D’Alessandris, who will be out for a significant time with an undisclosed illness. D’Alessandris had a unique relationship with his players. He wasn’t afraid to get in their faces when they screwed up but was also able to get them to play hard because of his straightforward approach. “I think we’re close,” Harbaugh said of finding the starting five offensive linemen. “I think we have a pretty good idea and what way it’s trending in different areas. It’s not all together solidified, but we’re in a good place right now.” Undrafted rookie running back Chris Collier, right, continues to impress at Ravens training camp. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Undrafted rookies making their mark Two rookie sleepers who might make the roster one way or another are rookie running back Chris Collier, the 5-11 and 210-pound free agent out of Lock Haven, and safety Beau Brade, a former River Hill and Maryland standout. Neither are expected to get much playing time in 2024, but Brade, at 6-foot and 209 pounds, has played well in training camp, and the Ravens have been impressed with his progress. “Beau has dealt with a few injuries, but [he’s] quiet, until we got him in the rookie skit, [and] then he wasn’t quiet anymore; he’s funny,” Harbaugh said. “So, that was fun — to see his personality even more. But yes, he’s stepped up. He’s covered well, but he’s also made some hits — that’s what I’ve enjoyed seeing – both on defense and special teams.” Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has more energy, less fatigue and shakes off brief practice exit Baltimore Ravens | Five things we learned from Ravens’ 13-12 preseason win over Atlanta Falcons Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens observations on Josh Johnson, young pass rushers, offensive line and more | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens rookie Adisa Isaac shows promise before exiting preseason debut: ‘He was a factor’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Tavius Robinson on key tackle | VIDEO Moments to forget Ugliest pass of the day belonged to rookie quarterback Devin Leary, who started down a tight end wearing a Travis Kelce jersey, and then had an interception returned for a touchdown by rookie cornerback Nate Wiggins. Practice makes perfect Harbaugh has heard the advantages and disadvantages of playing starters in the preseason, but with a bizarre second-half schedule, the Ravens have to get off to a strong start. “We want to start the season off well. We want to put our best foot forward right out of the gates as much as we can,” he said. “It’s hard to do, there’s no guarantee you’re going to do that, and there’s a lot of question marks to that every year. We have done well over the years doing that because we practice well. It comes down to practice. Practice is what makes it; preseason games don’t make or break you that way, it’s the practices that make you because that’s what you stack.” View the full article

Tavius Robinson’s clutch tackle on a 2-point attempt clinched the Ravens’ 13-12 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in their second preseason outing. Here are five things we learned from the game. David Ojabo reminded us he can be quite a sight coming off the edge This was how he and the Ravens imagined it — Ojabo whipping around his blocker’s outside shoulder and hurrying Falcons quarterback Taylor Heinicke into an incompletion. Ojabo has spent most of his NFL career fighting to feel like himself. First, a torn Achilles tendon delayed his start. Then, a knee injury cut short his hotly anticipated second season. If his luck does not turn in Year 3, will it ever? Doctors did not clear Ojabo for the Ravens’ preseason opener, but he was back on the field Saturday, and that rush on Heinicke reminded us why the team regarded him as a potential second-round steal in the 2022 draft. As much as anyone on the team, Ojabo needs encouraging game reps after playing so little in his first two seasons. “It seemed like when he was out there, he was a factor,” coach John Harbaugh said. “It’s great in practice, especially when you’re in pads. But the game is when it’s football. So to see guys step up in games is really important.” That hurry and a quarterback hit in the two-minute drill were the highlights of a promising performance in which pass rushing opportunities proved scarce. The Falcons often went with quick throws that flowed away from Ojabo. He dropped into coverage when Atlanta faced third-and-11 on its first drive. Even when he was touted as a first-round pass rusher, Ojabo drew more praise for his length and quickness than his power. He sometimes struggles to generate push when pitted one-on-one against NFL tackles, in this case Atlanta’s third-string left tackle, Julien Davenport. But he did fine setting the edge on a few running plays, and Harbaugh called his run defense “stout.” Falcons defensive tackle Brandon Dorlus, left, tries to get past Ravens guard Daniel Faalele during Saturday’s preseason game. (Kim Hairston/Staff) The Ravens’ offensive line plan was always risky. On Saturday, we saw the downside. The Ravens have spent the last month behaving as if Andrew Vorhees will start at left guard and Daniel Faalele at right guard. That’s a second-year guy who did not play at all last season as he rehabilitated a torn ACL and a converted right tackle who struggled in limited opportunities over his first two years. It’s risky, no matter what you think of Vorhees and Faalele’s potential. Kevin Zeitler’s pencil-it-in excellence is a thing of the past. With the caveat that offensive line play is difficult to judge in the moment, both guards started shakily Saturday. The Ravens’ first drive ended with Falcons defensive tackle Ruke Orhorhoro mauling quarterback Josh Johnson for a 12-yard loss after he easily shed Vorhees’ block. On their second offensive series, the Falcons stopped running back Owen Wright for no gain on second-and-6 in part because Faalele could not stay in front of his man in space. Wright and Chris Collier combined for a paltry 22 yards on 15 carries in the first half, scary stuff for an offense that counts on leading the league in ground efficiency. Johnson and Wright aren’t Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, but even deity-tier talents need room to work. If the Ravens’ offensive line does not grow up and grow together in a hurry — with coach George Warhop standing in for an ailing Joe D’Alessandris — its inconsistency could undermine everything else that’s good about the team’s offense. “Some, some bad,” Faalele said when asked to assess Saturday’s performance. “The good thing is, it’s still training camp, so we have a lot to work on.” He feels he’s making progress shortening up his pass blocking sets to account for the quicker pace of interior combat. He still texts Zeitler, now with the Detroit Lions, for tips. According to the timeline Harbaugh laid out at the beginning of camp, the Ravens are close to setting their line for the start of the season. They hope the unit, which could include three first-time starters in Vorhees, Faalele and right tackle Roger Rosengarten, will cohere, but that’s a projection based on limited, mixed evidence. “I feel like the more we play together, the more we mesh,” Faalele said. Josh Johnson answered his critics The 38-year-old Johnson’s 4-for-12 performance in the preseason opener had fans calling for general manager Eric DeCosta to make an emergency purchase on the backup quarterback market. Some touted Heinicke, the man starting for the other side Saturday, as a potential target. In a conversation after practice Thursday, Johnson said he doesn’t sweat the criticism. It comes with the territory when you’re backing up one of the league’s most exhilarating talents. Part of the reason the Ravens trust Johnson is that he’s seen and heard it all since he was drafted in 2008. If the worst happens and he has to step in for an injured Jackson, he won’t freak out. His cool was on display against Atlanta as he completed 11 of 11 passes, several into tight windows, to lead the Ravens to a 7-3 halftime advantage. “My style of play may not be as exciting as Lamar, but in terms of making the plays that are necessary, I can do that,” Johnson said. Game-by-game assessments of Johnson’s preseason are largely beside the point. No one is arguing he’s one of the league’s top backups or that he’s going to surprise us at this point in his career. But he knows Todd Monken’s offense inside and out, serves as a valuable sounding board for Jackson and comes at the right price for a team without much wiggle room under the salary cap. Starting the season with him at backup quarterback is no emergency, as he demonstrated Saturday. Anthony Miller has wasted no time making an impression Few of us thought much of it when the Ravens added the 2018 second-round draft pick as part of a wide receiver shopping spree that also brought Russell Gage to Baltimore. Though Miller gave the Chicago Bears reasonable production in his first three seasons, he’s caught all of six passes over the last three seasons, bouncing around practice squads and losing all of 2022 to a shoulder injury. But, man, did he catch the eye as soon as he pulled on a purple No. 5 jersey, running confident routes and accelerating away from coverage as other Ravens receivers trudged through the dog days of training camp. Miller didn’t bust any big plays against the Falcons but caught all three passes thrown his way as he continues his improbable push for a roster spot. It’s probably still a long shot given that Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman and Nelson Agholor are entrenched in the top three spots while Tylan Wallace and Deonte Harty offer special teams value and fourth-round pick Devontez Walker is likely to stick because of his upside. If the Ravens had to play one of these guys in a must-win game next week, however, the 29-year-old Miller looks more ready to help than the rookie Walker, who has struggled to stand out in camp and is now dealing with a rib injury. Ben Cleveland is a man in search of a role The lone strong impression Cleveland made Saturday was a poor one as his errant, mistimed snap derailed a potential scoring drive. Not what you want from a player whose main purpose in camp has been stepping in for injured starter Tyler Linderbaum. “We were trying to go fast, and I was trying to get guys lined up, and everybody was talking and talking. You hear something from this side and something from that side, and I thought I heard the cadence,” Cleveland explained afterward. “That’s completely my mess up, and on me, so we’ve just got to figure out how to differentiate that — the quarterback’s voice to everybody else’s voice — and move forward and not let it happen again.” Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens observations on Josh Johnson, young pass rushers, offensive line and more | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens rookie Adisa Isaac shows promise before exiting preseason debut: ‘He was a factor’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Tavius Robinson on key tackle | VIDEO Baltimore Ravens | Risers and fallers: Josh Johnson, David Ojabo stand out in Ravens’ 13-12 preseason win over Falcons Baltimore Ravens | Ravens announcer Gerry Sandusky apologizes after criticizing chain gang in preseason game In theory, Cleveland’s ability to play center gives him a leg up in making the Ravens’ 53-man roster. He could also play right guard if Faalele falters. A versatile reserve is an attractive reserve. That said, Patrick Mekari started at center against the Falcons and would likely be the next man up if Linderbaum can’t go in the regular season (assuming Mekari isn’t playing right tackle). Meanwhile, the Ravens seem disinterested in giving Cleveland reps at guard. So we have to wonder if the 2021 third-round pick is finally running out of chances to carve out a meaningful place on the roster. There’s still a case to be made that Cleveland is more of a sure thing than Faalele. He has performed competently in seven career starts. It’s possible Faalele is getting all the first-team reps because he needs them for development while Cleveland is a known quantity. Unless something changes this week, however, the Ravens aren’t treating Cleveland as a candidate for any of their open jobs. If he can’t compete for snaps at his original position, and he’s not really the backup center, what is he to this team? View the full article

Backup quarterback Josh Johnson might have eased some concerns about him possibly filling in for starter Lamar Jackson with a solid performance Saturday in the Ravens’ 13-12 win against the Atlanta Falcons in the second preseason game at M&T Bank Stadium. Johnson, a 10-year veteran, had a spotty performance a week ago in the preseason opener, completing only 4 of 12 passes for 62 yards in a 16-13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. He was slow as far as making his reads, which also resulted in poor decision-making. But Saturday, Johnson completed all 11 of his passes for 120 yards, including a 6-yard touchdown pass to running back Owen Wright in the second quarter before being relieved at halftime. The 38-year-old veteran appeared more in control of the offense and threw some nice touch passes, including ones of 31 and 26 yards. Just as important, Johnson appeared in control of the offense, redirecting offensive personnel before the snap. The Ravens could still possibly bring in another quarterback, but they have to feel better about Johnson after Saturday’s game. “I think I can handle everything that’s expected of me [with] regards to the operation of the offense,” Johnson said. “My style of play may not be as exciting as Lamar [Jackson], but in terms of making the plays that are necessary, I can do that. For me, I use my experience to my advantage. Being able to know what the defense is doing and knowing where guys should be, I know how to handle the protections and all those different things. So, I just try to make sure to bring that to practice and in the game, and every game.” David Ojabo shows progress … The Ravens couldn’t get outside linebacker David Ojabo cleared to play last week, but he had a strong performance against Atlanta. Ojabo, a second-round draft pick out of Michigan in 2022, has missed most of the past two seasons with leg injuries and the team has worked hard to get him into playing shape for the 2024 season. The 6-foot-4, 252-pound edge rusher played well Saturday. He wasn’t credited with any tackles but had one quarterback hit and several pressures that forced Falcons quarterbacks to step up in the pocket. The Ravens are counting on Ojabo to have a strong season, especially after their top edge rusher, Jadeveon Clowney, signed with the Carolina Panthers during the offseason. Clowney led the team’s outside linebackers with 9 1/2 sacks in 2023. The Ravens want Ojabo to work into a rotation with fellow outside linebackers Kyle Van Noy and Odafe Oweh. On Saturday, Ojabo showed good speed to the outside and was able to change direction once his progress was halted. He still needs to hold the edge longer, but that will probably come with more playing time or until a running back breaks a long run off the edge he vacated. “It seemed like [Ojabo] was out there, and he was a factor,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. “It looked like he was really stout against the run. I thought he set some edges really well. He had his eyes back inside — falling back on the ball — trying to get in the C-gap a few times, and then, [his] pass rush was a factor out there. He had some pressures. He looked good.” … but offensive line doesn’t The Ravens started Ben Clevleand at center, Daniel Faalele and Andrew Vorhees at the guard positions and rookie Roger Rosengarten and Josh Jones at the tackle spots, but the group wasn’t impressive. The unit wasn’t very dominant up front and seldom got much movement off the ball. There were times when the pass protection was better than the run blocking, which is ironic considering the Ravens have had one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL over the past five years. The biggest mistake came on third-and-2 from the Falcons’ 22-yard line with 12:04 left in the first half when Cleveland snapped the ball out of the shotgun to Johnson, who wasn’t ready. Atlanta recovered the loose ball on its own 43, ending a promising drive. Baltimore had 301 yards of total offense, but only 71 rushing yards on 30 attempts. “Yes, that was just a miscommunication,” Cleveland said. “We were trying to go fast, and I was trying to get guys lined up, and everybody was talking and talking. You hear something from this side and something from that side, and I thought I heard the cadence. That’s completely my mess up, and [it’s] on me, so we’ve just got to figure out how to differentiate that — the quarterback’s voice to everybody else’s voice — and move forward and not let it happen again.” Cornerback ups and downs Third-year cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis had a strong training camp and has played well in two preseason games. Davis, often bothered by injuries earlier in his career, had two tackles against Atlanta and broke up one pass. Even when he didn’t knock down a pass, his coverage was strong, especially his recovering and closing speed. One player, though, who has struggled has been cornerback Damarion “Pepe” Williams, who has lacked a strong physical presence since the start of camp. Williams had four tackles Saturday, but also missed a couple of tackles on running backs to the outside. Ravens tight end Riley Sharp lifts wide receiver Dayton Wade after the undrafted receiver scored a 56-yard touchdown against the Falcons on Saturday. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Undrafted rookie makes a play The best fake of the game came from Ravens undrafted rookie wide receiver Dayton Wade, who gave Falcons safety DeMarcco Hellams a quick squat or sit down move before blowing by him and catching a 56-yard touchdown pass near the left side line from Emory Jones. Hellams did a lot of talking after the catch, but there wasn’t much he could say. “I got the play out of the huddle, knew it was a double move, I got off coverage, and [Falcons cornerback Anthony Johnson] was playing hard inside. I was like, ‘OK, I’m going to set it a little more,’ because I know, previously, I ran the same route, which I ran the double move off of, and they were just playing hard inside and sitting on it,” Wade said. “I was like, ‘OK, I’m going to make sure I really sell it,’ just so I can get the defender to drive, and when I’m coming out of my break, I just know he’s going to try to put hands on me, because I know I’m going to [burn] him right there. So, I got his hands off of me, saw the ball in the air [to] drive and track the ball.” Backup quarterback watch If the Ravens are still in the market for a backup quarterback, they got a nice audition tape from Atlanta’s Taylor Heinicke, who completed 8 of 16 passes for 114 yards. They should also continue to monitor the situation in Cleveland, where the Browns have Jameis Winston at No. 2 followed by former Ravens backup Tyler Huntley and second-year player Dorian Thompson-Robinson backing up starter Deshauwn Watson. Harbaugh said he was happy with his current quarterbacks on the roster, but that could change quickly. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens rookie Adisa Isaac shows promise before exiting preseason debut: ‘He was a factor’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Tavius Robinson on key tackle | VIDEO Baltimore Ravens | Risers and fallers: Josh Johnson, David Ojabo stand out in Ravens’ 13-12 preseason win over Falcons Baltimore Ravens | Ravens announcer Gerry Sandusky apologizes after criticizing chain gang in preseason game Baltimore Ravens | Orioles encourage fans not to show up early Saturday to avoid ‘parking challenges’ with Ravens Adisa Isaac impresses Outside linebacker Adisa Isaac had a strong game for the Ravens, finishing with four tackles. The rookie from Penn State was relentless in pursuit, and few of the Falcons could block him cleanly. Isaac was drafted in the third round in April but was put on the non-football injury list because of a hamstring injury on July 15. When on the field, it appears this kid can play. “He was a factor, rushing the passer [and] in the run game,” Harbaugh said. “He’s a big guy. He’s explosive. He’s not as far along as David [Ojabo] is — as far as the conditioning part of it — because he had the hamstring [injury], so he’s going to be sore tomorrow; I’m quite sure. Hopefully, we can get him back in time for next week, just because that’s tough to get out there and work that kind of … play in a real game with that kind of [explosiveness] and that kind of speed when it’s hot out there without as much conditioning. “So, I do worry about that a little bit with him, but I am happy about the way he played. He sure looked good. He’s kind of got a start there.” Keep an eye on Anthony Miller It might be wishful thinking to believe veteran receiver Anthony Miller will make the roster, but he just keeps making plays. He had only three catches for 16 yards Saturday, but he certainly put Johnson in a comfort zone by completing several quick outs early in the first quarter. View the full article

The Ravens have had two rookies suffer injuries in as many preseason games. Last week, it was cornerback Nate Wiggins who exited early with a shoulder injury against the Philadelphia Eagles before returning to practice Thursday. On Saturday, outside linebacker Adisa Isaac went to the medical tent and did not return after going down on a run play late in the fourth quarter. When asked about Isaac after the game, Ravens coach John Harbaugh said the issue was “kind of cramping up and stuff so we’ll have to see how he feels tomorrow.” The third-round draft pick out of Penn State walked off the field under his own power but eventually headed to the locker room before the end of Baltimore’s 13-12 win over the Atlanta Falcons. He was not made available to the media postgame. With three minutes to go, Falcons running back Spencer Brown took a handoff toward the left side when tight end John FitzPatrick undercut Isaac’s right leg. Isaac had shown promise in his Ravens debut before the hit. He finished with four total tackles (the team’s fifth most), two of which were solo. He also played on special teams. “He was a factor,” Harbaugh said. “Rushing the passer and the run game. He’s a big guy. He’s explosive. He’s not as far along as David [Ojabo] is as far as the condition part of it because he had the hamstring [injury]. He’s gonna be sore tomorrow, I’m quite sure. “Hopefully we can get him back in time for next week just because that’s tough, to get out there and play in a real game with that kind of explosiveness, that kind of speed and it’s hot out there, without as much conditioning. So I do worry about that a little bit with him, but I’m happy about the way he played, he sure looked good.” Inside linebacker Trenton Simpson wore the green dot Saturday, meaning first-year defensive coordinator Zach Orr was in his ear communicating each defensive play call. Simpson loved Isaac’s eagerness from his first snap. “That speed, that tenacity and that young motor — I’m excited for him,” Simpson said. “It’s been awesome because he’s so willing to learn and he’s just hoping to grow. … He’s gonna have a great future ahead of him.” The Ravens’ win came down to a goal line stand in the waning minute. After the Falcons drove 80 yards on 11 plays for a touchdown, capped by running back Jase McClellan’s 3-yard run up the middle with 36 seconds left, Atlanta went for two since there are no overtime periods in the preseason. Falcons quarterback John Paddock again handed the ball off to McClellan, but outside linebacker Tavius Robinson burst off the line untouched for a game-saving tackle. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Risers and fallers: Josh Johnson, David Ojabo stand out in Ravens’ 13-12 preseason win over Falcons Baltimore Ravens | Ravens announcer Gerry Sandusky apologizes after criticizing chain gang in preseason game Baltimore Ravens | Orioles encourage fans not to show up early Saturday to avoid ‘parking challenges’ with Ravens Baltimore Ravens | Ravens roundtable: Answering questions about backup QBs, offensive line and biggest surprises Baltimore Ravens | Making the case for Ravens QB Josh Johnson as a reasonable backup to Lamar Jackson | ANALYSIS It would have been Isaac in that spot had he not gone down. Even though Robinson subbed in for the burgeoning Isaac, the 2023 fourth-round pick noticed both during Saturday’s game and throughout training camp the potential for Isaac to be a legitimate contributor among the Ravens’ pass rush group. “He plays relentless,” Robinson said. “I think he’s a dawg. Seeing him in camp, the way he runs to the ball, seeing how physical he is, how we strive to play up front, he’s got that. He’s gonna be a great addition to our D-line for sure.” Pass rush coach Chuck Smith first got wind of Isaac when Penn State “beat the brakes” out of Auburn on Sept. 17, 2022. Smith said earlier this week that Isaac’s explosiveness and power jumped off the page. “[We] wanted someone that can fit in, has the right mindset that can work in a team, because the team is kind of like a puzzle,” Smith said. “All the pieces have got to fit, and our room has got to be like that as well. I like Adisa. He’s out there just getting started. It’s exciting to see him do some good things.” View the full article

View the full article

The preseason is when offenses struggle to find a rhythm. That’s especially true when the Ravens aren’t playing their starters, as they did for the second straight week. Still, Baltimore’s offense, for at least the first half, was much better than a week ago and had its moments in a 13-12 win over the Atlanta Falcons on a warm but overcast Saturday afternoon at M&T Bank Stadium. Notably, quarterback Josh Johnson had a near-perfect passer rating and led Baltimore to its only touchdown drive of the first half in the second quarter. But that was only part of what stood out for the Ravens, who ended their three-game preseason losing streak. Who stood out Quarterback Josh Johnson: A week after completing just four passes in the first half against the Philadelphia Eagles, Johnson connected on that many on one drive, leading to the Ravens’ lone touchdown of the first half. Three passes in particular stood out, with the 38-year-old veteran hitting receiver Malik Cunningham for 13 yards to convert on fourth-and-2 from the 50-yard line, then nicely leading receiver Tylan Wallace over the middle for what ended up being a 31-yard gain to the Falcons’ 5. Three players later, Johnson hit running back Owen Wright on a short play-action pass for the 6-yard score. Earlier in the game, Johnson also connected with Keith Kirkwood for a 26-yard gain with a zippy throw on a deep out. Johnson ended the day perfect, completing 11 of 11 passes to eight targets for 120 yards and a touchdown in the first half. He also had a nice 8-yard scramble. Baltimore Ravens DB Beau Brade is hit by Falcons OL John Leglue after getting his hands on the ball in the second half of pre-season game at M&T Bank Stadium. The play was deemed to be an incomplete pass to an Atlanta receiver. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens WR Dayton Wade makes a catch ahead of Falcons CB Anthony Johnson and takes it into the end zone during the second half of in a pre-season game at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens WR Dayton Wade runs the ball into the end zone ahead of Falcons CB Anthony Johnson in the second half of a pre-season game at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens TE Riley Sharp lifts WR Dayton Wade after he scored against the Atlanta Falcons in the second half of a pre-season game at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Falcons QB Taylor Heinicke is tackled by Ravens WLB Trenton Simpsonin the first half of a pre-season game at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens WR Dayton Wade gestures after scoring in the second half of a pre-season game at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens WR Dayton Wade runs the ball into the end zone ahead of Falcons CB Anthony Johnson in the second half of a pre-season game at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Atlanta Falcons safety Lukas Denis #41 and inside linebacker Milo Eifler pursue Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Tylan Wallace for a second down during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Atlanta Falcons safety Tre Tarpley III, Baltimore Ravens place holder Jordan Stout and kicker Justin Tucker watch his point after try against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh holds the challenge flag as the bench signal for a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Ravens running back Owen Wright reaches for the end zone to score a touchdown during Saturday's preseason game against the Falcons. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Ravens QB Josh Johnson before a pre-season game against the Atlanta Falcons at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Ravens QB Devin Leary warms up before a pre-season game against the Atlanta Falcons at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Ravens LS Nick Moore and kicker Justin Tucker before a pre-season game against the Atlanta Falcons for at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Jordan Stout receives the ball from LS Nick Moore as Justin Tucker prepares to kick as they warm up before a pre-season game against the Atlanta Falcons at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Ravens Justin Tucker watches his kick as he warms up for a game against the Atlanta Falcons at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Jordan Stout prepares to place the ball for kicker Justin Tucker as they warm up before a pre-season game against the Atlanta Falcons at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens coach Sam Koch talks with punter Jordan Stout during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Emory Jones drops back between quarterback Devin Leary and wide receiver Keith Kirkwood during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens punter Jack Browning during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens cornerbacks Trayvon Mullen #30, Damarion Williams #24, Ka'dar Hollman #25, Bump Cooper Jr. and T.J. Tampa stretch during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews, who had been involved in a rollover crash several days ago stands on the sidelines during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews, who had been involved in a rollover crash several days ago stands on the sidelines during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens tight end Mark Andrews, who had been involved in a rollover crash several days ago stands on the sidelines during an NFL preseason game for the 2024-'25 season. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Show Caption1 of 24Baltimore Ravens DB Beau Brade is hit by Falcons OL John Leglue after getting his hands on the ball in the second half of pre-season game at M&T Bank Stadium. The play was deemed to be an incomplete pass to an Atlanta receiver. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Expand Inside linebacker Trenton Simpson: There’s never been any question about Simpson’s speed, and he showed it off against the Falcons. On Atlanta’s opening possession, the 2023 third-round draft pick rushed Taylor Heinicke on third-and-11 and got a quarterback hit, helping force an incompletion with Jalyn Armour-Davis breaking up the pass on the other end. Simpson also had a tackle for loss, nabbing running back Jase McClellan in the backfield, and made a nice open-field tackle on Heinicke on third-and-9 one play later to keep the Falcons well short of the first down. Lastly, and just as he has all training camp, Simpson showed good skills in pass coverage, which included a pass breakup on tight end John FitzPatrick. Outside linebacker David Ojabo: After not being cleared by doctors for last week’s opener against the Eagles despite practicing all week, Ojabo made his preseason debut and didn’t disappoint. After showing good burst, power and consistently being in the backfield in practice all week, the 2022 second-round pick carried those same traits to the game. On the stat sheet, he was credited with just one quarterback hit, but he was bothersome and disruptive on a handful of occasions and showed off his bend when it came to getting around the edge. That’s an encouraging sign for a player who is not only just nine months removed from ACL surgery but will be expected to be a significant contributor to the Ravens’ pass rush. Wide receiver Anthony Miller: The 29-year-old veteran has been with the Ravens for only a week but has continued to make plays both in practice and now in his first game action. First, he worked his way open for an 8-yard catch on third-and-4 from his own 25 late in the first quarter. One play later, he snagged another ball for a 2-yard gain. Then he made a short catch for a 6-yard gain before being shoved out of bounds. Three catches on three targets is a solid start for a player who could push to make the 53-man roster if rookie fourth-round pick Devontez Walker ends up starting the season on injured reserve. Walker, who missed practice Thursday, did not have a catch and played on special teams. Who didn’t stand out Guard-center Ben Cleveland: It already seems that Cleveland has fallen by the wayside in the competition for the starting right guard spot with the Ravens continuing to give Daniel Faalele first-team snaps there, as they did again Saturday. Cleveland didn’t help himself at backup center, either. With the Ravens on the move in the second quarter and facing a third-and-2 from the Falcons’ 22, Cleveland snapped the ball clear over Johnson’s head as the quarterback was still signaling the play. A 2021 third-round pick who is now in his fourth year, the expectation was that Cleveland would be a dependable starter, but that just hasn’t been the case. He played well when he was on the field last season, and he’ll likely make the 53-man roster, but he stood out for the wrong reason Saturday. Outside linebacker Tavius Robinson: The 6-foot-6, 262-pound second-year edge rusher has the physical makeup of a player who should be a contributor off the bench. Too often, however, he’s struggled to get off blocks and therefore did not get to the quarterback or have much of an impact. Robinson finished with a pair of tackles, but too often was late to the play. The saving grace for the 2023 fourth-round pick, however, was that he stuffed McClellan on the Falcons’ 2-point conversion attempt with under a minute to play to seal the victory. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens announcer Gerry Sandusky apologizes after criticizing chain gang in preseason game Baltimore Ravens | Orioles encourage fans not to show up early Saturday to avoid ‘parking challenges’ with Ravens Baltimore Ravens | Ravens roundtable: Answering questions about backup QBs, offensive line and biggest surprises Baltimore Ravens | Making the case for Ravens QB Josh Johnson as a reasonable backup to Lamar Jackson | ANALYSIS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens observations on a light, abbreviated practice that included Nate Wiggins’ return Quarterback Devin Leary: The Ravens’ third-string quarterback played only sparingly and did not impress in the short time he was on the field. A week after he had a some receivers running the wrong routes, Leary completed just one of three passes on a drive late in the second quarter — and Dayton Wade did most of the work on the 11-yard play — before being replaced by Emory Jones at the start of the second half. Jones later connected with Wade for a 56-yard touchdown pass after the undrafted receiver made a nice double move to get free down the left sideline. Leary returned late in the fourth quarter but finished just 3-for-5 with 24 yards. Offensive line: Ravens running backs had just 71 yards on 30 carries, and while Wright and Chris Collier shoulder some of the blame, they often had little in the way of holes to run through. It was telling, for example, that right tackle Roger Rosengarten, right guard Faalele and center Cleveland were all on the field to open the second half after Rosengarten and Faalele started the game. The rest of Saturday’s starting offensive line, including Josh Jones at left tackle, Andrew Vorhees at left guard and Patrick Mekari at center, was shoved around some and lacked the kind of push to open up running lanes. View the full article

Baltimore sportscaster Gerry Sandusky apologized Saturday for his criticism of NFL sideline officials during the Ravens’ preseason opener last week. During Baltimore’s 16-13 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Aug. 9, Sandusky, calling the play-by-play for WBAL-TV, took issue with the two-person chain gang, which marks the down and distance with a set of bright orange markers 10 yards apart. After Eagles quarterback Tanner McKee tried to pick up a first down on a sneak in the fourth quarter, the chains were brought out for a measurement, drawing Sandusky’s ire. “This is one of the things — as you look at the replay, think about this,” Sandusky said. “We have the technology to put a GPS tracker on Mars. But we still use a bunch of older guys on the sideline with sticks to measure whether a ball carrier got a first down or not. Nothing against the older guys with sticks.” After the measurement, officials signaled that McKee picked up the first down, giving the Eagles a first-and-10 on their own 49-yard line with 2:45 to play. As the TV cameras focused on one of the members of the chain gang running back to the sideline, Sandusky took a moment to comment on the official’s physical appearance. “It just seems absurd that in a game where they have GPS trackers on player’s shoulder pads, they have 19 different levels of algorithms to measure everything in the NFL we still use guys with glasses who are no longer what you’d call physically fit trotting out a pair of sticks to measure first downs,” Sandusky said. The drive ended with a missed 50-yard field goal attempt by kicker Jake Elliott with 21 seconds left that would have given Philadelphia the lead, but the Eagles forced a fumble on the first play of the Ravens’ next possession and recovered the ball before kicking a game-winning 49-yard field goal as time expired. The following day, Sandusky posted an apology on X, formerly Twitter. “In last nights Ravens broadcast I commented on the use of a chain gang instead of technology on measurements. I did not intend to demean any individual,” he wrote. “I apologize to the members of the chain gang for what I said. I recognize they are doing an important job as professionals.” On Saturday, just before the Ravens and Atlanta Falcons kicked off their second preseason game at M&T Bank Stadium, Sandusky also apologized on air on WBAL. “During last week’s preseason game while referencing the lack of technology for marking first downs, I made comments about the chain gang that I should not have made,” he said. “‘For that, I am sorry. To all members of the chain gang, thank you for your dedication to youth, high school, college and professional sports. Please accept my apology. Your contribution to football at all levels is appreciated and valued.” Last month, the Associated Press reported that the NFL is moving closer to replacing the chain gang with new technology to measure line to gain. NFL executive Gary Brantley told the AP that the league will test Sony’s Hawk-Eye technology during some preseason games, but the system most likely wouldn’t be ready for full implementation until next season. Sandusky, a Towson University graduate who has anchored sports coverage at WBAL-TV since 1988, is the Ravens’ radio play-by-play announcer. During the preseason, he serves as the Ravens’ play-by-play man on WBAL’s television broadcasts. The Baltimore County resident is a two-time Emmy award winner and has also won two Edward R. Murrow awards. View the full article

Saturday will be a busy one on the Baltimore sports calendar, and with that comes traffic concerns. The Ravens will host the Atlanta Falcons in their second preseason game at noon at M&T Bank Stadium, while the Orioles play the Boston Red Sox at 7 p.m. at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. “To avoid any parking challenges between the games, fans are encouraged not to show up earlier than when lots or gates open for the Orioles game,” the Orioles said in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter. Lots for the Orioles game will open at 4 p.m., with gates opening at 5 p.m. According to the teams, fans attending both games will be permitted to stay in their purchased parking location by showing both passes to the parking attendant when they arrive. They must have a permit for both games in the same parking lot. There are three state-owned parking lots that sit between Oriole Park and M&T Bank Stadium. The parking lots are part of roughly 85 acres that compose the Camden Yards complex. This season, the Orioles are averaging 27,668 fans per home game, while the Ravens don’t typically draw a full crowd at their 71,000-seat stadium for preseason games. The Orioles and Ravens have clashed in the past when it comes to overlapping events. Notably, the teams were unable to strike a compromise in 2013 when the NFL hoped the Ravens would open the season at M&T Bank Stadium on a night when the Orioles had a home game scheduled in their nearby stadium. The Ravens became the first reigning Super Bowl champion to open on the road since 2003, losing to the Denver Broncos. In October, gridlock that some feared amid twin events held at Oriole Park and M&T Bank Stadium came to fruition, stranding drivers on streets surrounding the complex long after Stevie Nicks took the stage to perform. Tickets to see Nicks along with singer Billy Joel at the Ravens’ stadium went on sale months before the Orioles clinched the American League East, ensuring that the team would host a postseason game at Camden Yards on the same date. Organizers pushed up the start of the Orioles game to 1 p.m. in hopes of clearing the stadiums’ shared tract in time for the concert’s 7 p.m. start. That gap proved to be too little time for many who chose to drive to the stadium, especially with a rain delay pushing the first pitch to 2:15 p.m. View the full article

The NFL season is almost here. On Saturday, the Ravens host the Atlanta Falcons in their second preseason game. After a final tune-up in Green Bay and a much-anticipated season opener in Kansas City, the next time Baltimore takes the field at M&T Bank Stadium will be its home opener against the Las Vegas Raiders on Sept. 15. There’s still much to be decided until then, including the Ravens’ final 53-man roster ahead of the Aug. 27 cut-down deadline. Only two more preseason games and a handful of practices remain for veterans to sharpen their skills and roster hopefuls to make their final case. Baltimore Sun reporters Brian Wacker and Childs Walker and columnist Mike Preston answer questions about what to watch against Atlanta, the backup quarterback situation, the battle for starting spots on the offensive line and the biggest surprises thus far. What are you most interested in watching when the Ravens play the Falcons? Wacker: Will outside linebacker David Ojabo play? And will the wide receiver group make an impact? Ojabo wasn’t cleared by doctors for the preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles, though he has been practicing — not an unusual circumstance for a player working his way back from ACL surgery nine months ago. But he needs game reps at some point after being injured essentially all of his first two years in the NFL. Those would preferably come in the preseason as part of the continued ramp up to see how quick he is off the edge and how effective his moves are. As for the receivers, there are question marks beyond the top three of Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman and Nelson Agholor along with tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely. Rookie fourth-round draft pick Devontez Walker, who has been dealing with rib issue, has been a nonfactor in training camp. Tylan Wallace has been steady but is valued more for his special teams ability and only has seven career catches over three seasons. Sean Ryan, Keith Kirkwood, Malik Cunningham and Dayton Wade, among others, are practice-squad caliber at best, though newly added Anthony Miller has shown juice in practice. If that continues, Miller could push to make 53-man roster if Walker, for example, starts the season on injured reserve. Walker: Is Ojabo cleared to play and will he look explosive coming off the edge? Doctors did not give the third-year outside linebacker, who’s returning from ACL surgery, the nod to play last week against the Eagles. But he has flashed in recent practices, highlighted by a strip-sack on Lamar Jackson. Ojabo needs productive game reps to get his career untracked after serious injuries wiped out most of his first two seasons. The Ravens are counting on him to help mitigate the loss of Jadeveon Clowney. They and he would love that forward motion to begin sooner rather than later. Preston: The Ravens aren’t a complete team yet. They are hampered by the same problems they’ve had for the past couple of years, with the exception of last season. They need to develop a consistent pass rush from their outside linebackers, a group that includes Kyle Van Noy, Odafe Oweh, Ojabo and Tavius Robinson. On the flip side, I want to see more rhythm and cohesiveness from the offensive line. Before Wednesday, I thought the running game would be in great shape, but after offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris was hospitalized with an illness, I’m not quite as confident. Pass protection has been a problem for this team over the past five years, and it’s suspect again. It’s definitely something to keep an eye on. Josh Johnson and the rest of the backup quarterbacks struggled against the Eagles. Should the Ravens consider adding a veteran free agent? Wacker: The problem is it’s easier said than done. Given Jackson’s contract, and soon needing to pay big money to other players such as All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton and Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum, the Ravens simply can’t afford to invest any real money for a backup. Johnson isn’t any worse than former No. 2 Tyler Huntley. Meanwhile, free agent Ryan Tannehill, who played with Ravens running back Derrick Henry on the Tennessee Titans, would have a better chance of getting on the field with another team. Johnson, as bad as he has been, at least knows the offense and has a good relationship with Jackson. Their best option would be to continue to draft a quarterback every year or perhaps trade a late-round pick for another backup who would be only marginally better than Johnson. Walker: The Ravens made an offseason choice to stick with Johnson, whom they and Jackson trust, instead of using precious cap space on a more decorated backup. One disjointed preseason game — let’s face it, not many of them are pretty — should not change their calculation. Given Jackson’s salary, they can’t spend on all facets of the roster, and even with a more expensive backup, they’d probably be doomed by a significant injury to their franchise quarterback. It’s a reasonable spot at which to embrace a bargain solution, even if a Johnson-led Ravens offense wouldn’t be a work of art. Meanwhile, they need to keep drafting young quarterbacks with later-round picks, as they did with Devin Leary this year, and see if one of them sticks. Preston: Johnson showed me little against the Eagles. In fact, for a player who has been in and out of the NFL since 2009, he looked lethargic and hesitant in his decision-making. The 38-year-old wasn’t very effective during the several days Jackson missed early in training camp. If Jackson goes down, Johnson isn’t the answer. The Ravens should keep an eye on what is going on in Cleveland. The Browns have Deshaun Watson listed as the starter with Jameis Winston at No. 2 followed by former Raven Tyler Huntley and second-year player Dorian Thompson-Robinson. If the Browns release one of them, the Ravens should pick them up. Winston or Huntley would be fine additions. Huntley already knows the offense, having been the backup here last season under then first-year coordinator Todd Monken. Patrick Mekari has experience on his side in the battle to start at right tackle, but the Ravens like his versatility as a sixth man. (Amy Davis/Staff) Is it clear who should start at both guard spots and right tackle, or is more time needed? Wacker: The Ravens likely won’t make an official decision on these positions until perhaps as late as after the third preseason game, but the race largely looks over. Andrew Vorhees was fine at left guard against the Eagles in the preseason opener and doesn’t seem to have anyone challenging him. Baltimore seems to be content with sticking with the massive Daniel Faalele at right guard over Ben Cleveland. At right tackle, Patrick Mekari is the best option in the vacuum of a singular game, but the Ravens prefer him as a sixth-man plug-and-play option off the bench anywhere along the line. That makes Roger Rosengarten, who was solid against the Eagles, the favorite, and as such he’ll get an increase in snaps against the Falcons. Walker: Vorhees wasn’t great in the preseason opener but seems to have a grip on left guard. The other two spots are far from set. The Ravens seem determined to continue the Faalele experiment at right guard, and he played fairly well against the Eagles, especially as a run blocker. Another solid performance against Atlanta might solidify him as the favorite given coaches’ apparent reluctance to go with Cleveland. Rosengarten and Mekari are waging the most interesting position battle on the team at right tackle. Mekari would start if the Ravens had to win a playoff game next week, but the Ravens probably still prefer him in a super-utility role. Rosengarten held his own against the Eagles and will get more snaps against Atlanta. The rookie would help this group’s depth if he seizes the job and allows Mekari to rove. Preston: More time will be needed, but it all starts once center Tyler Linderbaum returns from injury. When that happens, the guess here is that Mekari starts at right tackle and Vorhees become the permanent starter at left guard. Mekari has more experience than Rosengarten, and that should help in the season opener against Kansas City. Faalele appears to be the starting right guard, even though his technique can be sloppy at times. Regardless, this offensive line needs time to jell. That might not happen until Week 4 or 5 of the regular season. Who or what has been the biggest surprise so far during training camp and preseason? Wacker: Two players have stood out for different reasons: veteran offensive lineman Josh Jones and undrafted rookie tight end Qadir Ismail. Jones, a 2020 third-round pick of the Arizona Cardinals, has played every position up front except center and appeared in 60 games, including 24 starts. Yet he hasn’t been in competition for any of the three openings and has barely even been mentioned by coaches. He played 30 snaps against the Eagles and drew an 80.6 mark for his run blocking and 63.9 grade for pass blocking from Pro Football Focus, but otherwise seems destined for a backup role. Ismail, meanwhile, had only slightly more catches (16) than games played (14) in his two years at Samford, yet he has shined consistently throughout training camp for a player with such a limited college resume. At 6 feet 6, he’s tall and rangy and has made several terrific catches. He’s also been a surprisingly good blocker in coach John Harbaugh’s eyes. He won’t make the 53-man roster, but he’s a fascinating prospect. Walker: Ismail, son of former Ravens wide receiver and Baltimore institution Qadry, seemed the epitome of a nice camp story when the Ravens signed him as an undrafted free agent out of Samford. But the 6-foot-6 pass catcher has made so many plays this summer, with his proud dad watching every step, that he feels like a strong candidate to stick on the practice squad. Given his huge frame and willingness to block, Ismail is an interesting developmental prospect at tight end. The team’s top offensive players, Jackson included, see something in him. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Making the case for Ravens QB Josh Johnson as a reasonable backup to Lamar Jackson | ANALYSIS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens observations on a light, abbreviated practice that included Nate Wiggins’ return Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 15, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | With tumultuous college career behind him, Ravens rookie Devontez Walker finally plays free Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Harbaugh on Mark Andrews car accident | VIDEO Preston: There have been no big surprises, only some minor ones. Running back Derrick Henry has shown some speed to the outside, which bodes well for the running game. I thought receiver Rashod Bateman would show more, especially after he got a contract extension in the offseason, but he still can’t escape the injury bug and hasn’t developed much chemistry with Jackson. Defensively, the secondary has been outstanding, and it’s going to be interesting to see which players make the roster. I wasn’t impressed with the defensive line and how the Eagles handled that group in the first preseason game. Of course, the Ravens were playing without end Justin Madubuike and middle linebacker Roquan Smith, but they did have Travis Jones and Broderick Washington on the field. That effort was embarrassing. It was a preseason game, but there is still the pride factor. What did you learn about the new kickoff rules now that you’ve seen it in action? Wacker: The aesthetics are going to take some getting used to. Beyond that, there should be a lot more action surrounding the play, though it doesn’t seem to lend itself to big or exciting returns. Don’t be surprised if the league tweaks it further. Remember, it’s only in place for this season and will get voted on again. Walker: That the play looks downright weird to anyone who’s spent a lifetime watching pro football? It’s still difficult to draw any sweeping conclusions about a rule change that will certainly lead to more returns but perhaps not to more thrilling plays. Harbaugh, who knows and cares as much about special teams as any coach, seems concerned about how the new kickoff, with so much chaos unfolding at once, will be officiated. That’s not a great sign. Preston: The new kickoff is nothing other than a running play. I expected more. If the returner can hit the hole quickly and make one cut, there is a chance he might break it open, but there is so much congestion at the point of attack. It looks like the NFL wanted to add some excitement with the return, but there isn’t a lot to it. I have been disappointed so far. View the full article

Josh Johnson offers a steady hand at the right price. The Ravens know many of their rivals, including the three other teams in the AFC North, have invested in younger, more decorated backup quarterbacks who have started games more recently than the 38-year-old Johnson. Baltimore kicked the tires on the reserve market in the offseason but did not find the value it wanted, so it’s Johnson, with nine NFL starts for 14 teams over the past 16 years, who’s next in line behind reigning league Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson. One turn of Jackson’s ankle and pro football’s ultimate nomad could be at the controls of a Super Bowl contender. That reality has unsettled Ravens fans who watched Johnson complete 4 of 12 passes for 62 yards in the team’s preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles. Suddenly, Johnson, the No. 3 quarterback behind Tyler Huntley last season, is a popular subject of local football chatter. Not that it’s going to bother him, given all he’s seen. “That’s part of playing in the National Football League,” he said after practice Thursday. “People love you if it’s working. If it ain’t working, they’re gonna criticize you. Lamar is one of the greatest quarterbacks, and people still got the nerve to criticize him, so me being who I am, do I think they’re not going to criticize me?” Did the Ravens make the right choice sticking with a guy they trust for the low, low price of $1.15 million? Or should they call a late audible and pursue one of the prominent quarterbacks still available, led by longtime Tennessee Titans starter Ryan Tannehill? Understand that they went through a deliberate, rational thought process on this issue. First, they decided Huntley, their primary backup the past three seasons, didn’t play well enough to justify the expense of keeping him over or in addition to Johnson. Then, they surveyed the market and concluded the $4 million or so required for a premium backup might leave them hamstrung at a different position. Finally, they settled on a hybrid strategy: trust the veteran Johnson for the short term and use a lower-round draft pick on a quarterback, in this case Devin Leary, who might stick after a developmental year. Ravens rookie quarterback Devin Leary passes while Josh Johnson, left, and Emory Jones watch during training camp. The Ravens drafted Leary in the sixth round as a development project. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) The Ravens won’t go deep in the playoffs without Jackson anyway — a reality that hit home when Huntley and Johnson had to start games down the stretch in 2021 and 2022 — so why waste precious cap space on an insurance policy? Johnson is the no-frills plan, but he has virtues. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken laid them out Tuesday: “Josh does a tremendous job of being ready. He’s the consummate pro — that’s why he’s been in the NFL for so long. He gets what we want to do, [and] he has a great feel for where we are and where we need to get to. I think he’s a great sounding board for Lamar and for us.” The last point is important. When a team has a franchise quarterback, part of the backup’s job is to maintain a solid bond with the superstar. “That’s like big bro to me,” Jackson said of Johnson. “He’s been around the league so long, he’s very, very intelligent. He’s a very smart guy. Even though he’s not the starter, he knows what he’s talking about and knows what he’s seeing. Certain things that I’m seeing on the field, he’s already on it. I can gravitate with that. I can learn something from that, and that’s a great guy to learn from.” Jackson was also close to Huntley, but they were contemporaries. Johnson, who was drafted a decade before him (the same year as Joe Flacco), is a font of wisdom. As Monken said, there’s a reason so many teams, including the San Francisco 49ers in 2022, wanted him around. “My job is to support him in any way possible,” Johnson said of Jackson. “Owners have general managers. Presidents have people who handle the things that they can’t, and for me in my situation with [Lamar], just bringing my knowledge from being around the NFL so long, bringing that value every day, is very important, because, mentally, there’s a lot going on. Just to being able to reflect ideas, thoughts, processes off one another, I think that’s very important.” He also has to see the game through Jackson’s eyes, so he’ll prepared to run the offense that has been designed around No. 8. Johnson said the relationship works because “we’ve just got similar stories in how we experience life. When we just share our personal stories with one another, it’s very relatable. We connect in so many ways on how we see things.” Recall, too, that Johnson produced — 28 of 40 for 304 yards and two touchdowns — the one time the Ravens started him in a December 2021 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. That’s not to dismiss the Ravens’ offensive struggles with Johnson at the helm early in training camp or in the preseason opener. But they don’t have a better candidate on the roster. Leary, their sixth-round pick out of Kentucky, has made nifty throws here and there, but the Ravens would prefer to stash him on the practice squad and see if he grows into something. If Leary doesn’t seem like a future backup candidate after this season, they’ll continue to draft quarterbacks and hope one sticks. You never know how a top backup might arrive. Jake Browning was an undrafted Minnesota Vikings discard when the Bengals signed him to their practice squad in 2021. They kept him around for two years until he won the No. 2 job behind Joe Burrow before last season. After Burrow suffered a season-ending wrist injury in November, Browning stepped in and nearly led Cincinnati to the playoffs, completing 70.4% of his passes with 12 touchdowns in seven starts. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens observations on a light, abbreviated practice that included Nate Wiggins’ return Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 15, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | With tumultuous college career behind him, Ravens rookie Devontez Walker finally plays free Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Harbaugh on Mark Andrews car accident | VIDEO Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 14, 2024 | PHOTOS The AFC North presents a fascinating case study in differing approaches to the backup conundrum. The Pittsburgh Steelers, still searching for a true heir to Ben Roethlisberger, essentially added two starters. Veteran Russell Wilson will begin the season as their No. 1, but they also traded for three-year starter Justin Fields in March, and the 2021 first-round pick could take the job at any time. Fields, who will cost $3.2 million against the cap, isn’t much more expensive than Johnson, but he’ll be a free agent after this season, so he’s not the developmental asset he might seem to be on the surface. The Cleveland Browns, with an expensive, unreliable starter in Deshaun Watson, signed Jameis Winston, who’s started 80 NFL games, and Huntley in the offseason. Winston agreed to a $4 million deal with void years, Huntley to a $1.29 million deal, so Cleveland is spending considerably more on its backups than the Ravens. For now, Johnson remains confident that his vast experience — younger teammates never let him forget how long he’s been around — will help him help Jackson. He doesn’t often pause during the season to contemplate how long he’s survived in this cutthroat world, but he does get a kick out of being the wise man in the room. “When you’re young, everything’s an unknown,” he said. “You’ve got to rebuild that rapport each year, but having those experiences, it brings a sense of calm to your mind.” Baltimore Sun reporter Brian Wacker contributed to this article. View the full article

With one preseason game under their belt and heading into a day off before their second, the Ravens had a relatively light, abbreviated practice on Thursday. Much of the padless defense operated at half-speed, inflating the offensive output. And there appeared to be an extra sense of levity to individual drills. Quarterback Lamar Jackson got off to a hot start in 11-on-11 action, completing his first four passes. Three went to Tylan Wallace for medium-distance pickups. The other was a post route to Zay Flowers, who burst off the right side and beat cornerback Marlon Humphrey over the middle for a touchdown. The offense cooled off in the middle portion under Jackson’s control. He looked for Isaiah Likely in the end zone but found the outstretched hands of linebacker Deion Jennings, who dropped the potential interception. Linebacker Yvandy Rigby bobbled a throw from Jackson before hauling in his pick, also in the end zone, on a pass intended for Anthony Miller. Undrafted rookie Bump Cooper Jr. later forced an incompletion draped over Malik Cunningham. Cooper nearly picked off backup Josh Johnson later in practice on a ball he should have caught. Ignoring a few would-be sacks and one pass interference call, Jackson wrapped on a high note with a string of red zone completions. That included a pair of touchdowns to Likely and Flowers to end practice. The Ravens host the Atlanta Falcons at noon Saturday for their final home preseason game, and Jackson isn’t going to play. Next week, Baltimore travels to Green Bay for some joint practices before they face the Packers in the third preseason game, the final tuneup before the regular-season opener Sept. 5 against the Chiefs in Kansas City. Wiggins, Mullen return Rookie cornerback Nate Wiggins returned to practice Thursday after suffering a shoulder injury during last week’s preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles. He was an immediate bright spot, breaking up three passes during the game’s opening drive, but exited in the third quarter. The first-round draft pick sprinted alone with a trainer Wednesday but did not participate with the team. He returned a day later wearing a padded brace on his injured shoulder. Wiggins did participate in some 11-on-11 action Thursday. On a string of plays during his first series, his side of the field was rather quiet. He later surrendered a pair of catches. More positive injury updates: Cornerback Trayvon Mullen was back taking full-team reps for the first time since returning from his shoulder injury earlier in camp. Two players on the fringe impress Undrafted rooked tight end Qadir Ismail had perhaps the play of the day, hauling in a pass from Johnson with a full-body extension in the back right corner of the end zone. Safety Ar’Darius Washington — who has had an impressive camp — was a step behind in coverage. Miller also continues to show good juice and could challenge for a back-end spot on the roster if fellow receiver Devontez Walker, who was absent Thursday and has been dealing with a rib issue, ends up on injured reserve to start the season. Tampa’s early exit (again) T.J. Tampa made his training camp debut Monday after recovering from a sports hernia injury that previously put the cornerback to the physically unable to perform list. Baltimore’s late-fourth-round pick, who many considered to be a steal at that point in the draft, has been ramping up each day this week, having gone through individual drills before heading inside at the start of 11-on-11 action. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Making the case for Ravens QB Josh Johnson as a reasonable backup to Lamar Jackson | ANALYSIS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 15, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | With tumultuous college career behind him, Ravens rookie Devontez Walker finally plays free Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Harbaugh on Mark Andrews car accident | VIDEO Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 14, 2024 | PHOTOS Tucker’s growing repertoire Has Justin Tucker added kicks to his repertoire in light of the new kickoff formation? “No doubt,” senior special teams coach Randy Brown said. “It’s 80 [degrees] and sunny out today. But what do we do if it’s 30? We’ve been at [M&T Bank Stadium] when it’s 30 and the 30 mph wind is coming out of that far corner? He’s creating scenarios where that’s what he’s practicing now. That’s the one thing we don’t know what’s gonna happen with this play.” Tucker said by Week 1 they’ll have eight or nine types of kicks. “For it being a large area to land the ball in,” Tucker said, “you still have to be pretty articulate, pretty detailed with where you’re placing the ball.” View the full article

Aug 15, 2024: OLB Tavius Robinson during Baltimore Ravens training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) From left, Brandon Stephens, T.J. Tampa Jr and Eddie Jackson celebrate completing a drill during Baltimore Ravens training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Aug 15, 2024: Baltimore Ravens running back Chris Collier during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Aug 15, 2024: Baltimore Ravens running back John Kelly during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens running back Chris Collier during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Aug 15, 2024: Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Aug 15, 2024: Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson and RB Justice Hill during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson and RB Chris Collier during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson and RB Justice Hill during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson runs onto the field for training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Aug 15, 2024: Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) View the full article

Sweltering July afternoons in the South Florida heat provided Devontez Walker a moment to reflect. The rookie wide receiver spent a week this offseason training with Lamar Jackson, Zay Flowers and more of his teammates in the weeks leading up to Ravens training camp. Walker, like he was in college, wants to be his new quarterback’s most trusted deep threat. Jackson pushed Walker’s limits, heaving balls as far as he could to see just how long the new tandem’s connection could reach. “He was putting it out there to see if I could go get it, even while I was tired,” Walker told The Baltimore Sun. “Him seeing that is why he trusts me.” Each completed throw brought him closer to that goal. It was also the first time Walker felt he belonged with his new squad. Belonging has mostly eluded the 23-year-old in his football journey. He spent time at three colleges and became the face of transfer portal disputes during a fierce fight for eligibility with the NCAA. Along with injuries and family challenges, he sometimes felt he took on his toughest challenges alone. That chapter of Walker’s life, full of twists and uncertainty, is closed. He’ll begin a new one when his rookie season with the Ravens starts next month. When that comes, he’ll finally just play football. “I’ve been playing my whole life. Now, I’m able to just do it freely,” Walker said. “I’m living my dream now.” Fighting for a spot Walker’s path to playing time in Baltimore will be difficult. He’s behind Flowers, Rashod Bateman, Nelson Agholor and potentially others in a crowded wide receiver room. The Ravens broke camp last season with six receivers. They’ve signed two veterans since the start of camp, and they’ve waived one of their draft picks each of the past three seasons. Walker’s spot won’t be guaranteed, a reality he understands and one that pushed him to find other ways onto the field. Walker is playing more special teams than he ever did in college. He recalls taking only one snap as a gunner on Kent State’s punt coverage unit, whereas now he devotes a large portion of practices to perfecting kickoff coverage responsibilities. “I feel like I’m doing pretty good, adjusting well,” Walker said. “[Special teams] is kinda new to me. If you’re not that second or third guy at your position, you’re gonna be on special teams. If that’s my way of getting on the field, then that’s what it is.” Devontez Walker’s summer has been imperfect. That’s a circumstance he’s familiar with. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Walker has been limited with a rib injury as of late, coach John Harbaugh said this week. The receiver was targeted just once, an uncatchable pass from rookie Devin Leary, in Baltimore’s preseason opener, and Walker has worked with the first- or second-team offense sparingly in recent practices. Harbaugh expects his opportunities to ramp up soon. “I’d like to see him go out there and take a lot more reps and see what he can do,” the coach said. The 6-foot-3 receiver averaged 17 yards per reception with North Carolina last season. That would have led the Ravens — the next closest returning receiver was Bateman at 11.5 yards per catch. Although training camp hasn’t been as clear as Walker hoped, occasional highlight completions show flashes of the deep threat he can be. He still has time to get acclimated, put his minor injury behind him, and impress as he did in Florida last month. Those extra days with Jackson are an advantage he has over most other receivers fighting for the same roster spots. Walker’s summer has been imperfect. That’s a circumstance he’s familiar with. ‘I thought it was over’ Walker tore his ACL the day after he signed with East Tennessee State as a high school senior. Then, one week before he was set to move onto campus in July 2019, the school rescinded his scholarship offer. ETSU first called West Charlotte coach Josh Harris hoping he’d break the news to Walker. Harris refused, then received an emotional call from Walker five minutes later. “That hurt,” Harris told The Baltimore Sun in a phone interview. “That hurt all of us.” Walker is the first player Harris has ever coached to reach the NFL. Harris, now an assistant athletic director at another Charlotte-area school, was at M&T Bank Stadium on Friday for Walker’s preseason debut — five years after that trajectory-altering injury. Harris offered his usual feedback over dinner Saturday night at Nick’s Fish House in South Baltimore, but both are quick to note their relationship extends beyond football. “We’re family,” Harris said. “It started out as just coaching, but now we’re literally family.” Walker’s ACL tear kicked off a lengthy recovery process. He worked at Bojangles, a fast-food restaurant, to pay for the surgery and rehabilitation. Whenever doubts crept in, Harris reminded Walker of a conversation they had after a practice. The coach asked his player what his goals were. They were, of course, the NFL. If that was true, Harris said, Walker’s chase had to be unrelenting. “If your goal is to go to the NFL, I shouldn’t have to question your work ethic and how you move from this point on,” Harris recalled telling Walker. “And I never had to question it.” The receiver ultimately landed at North Carolina Central, which canceled what would have been his freshman season in 2020. That pushed Walker to Kent State, 500 miles from home in North Carolina, where he posted 921 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns as a sophomore and blossomed into one of the best at his position in the nation. Everything went Walker’s way on the field. Off it, there was a hole he failed to fill. His grandmother couldn’t watch him play. Loretta Black has had multiple knee and hip surgeries and battles severe scoliosis, making long flights and car rides difficult. Walker was her caretaker before he left for college. Being without her for the first time weighed heavily while he flourished on the field, so much that it pulled him back home. That decision threw Walker into a months-long battle to play against the NCAA, which initially deemed him ineligible as a two-time transfer. “After they denied it, I just thought it was over,” he said. Walker hired a legal team that threatened to sue as public pressure mounted. The NCAA reversed its decision five weeks into last season. Walker led the Atlantic Coast Conference in touchdowns from that point on. His grandmother saw each one. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens’ Harbaugh on Mark Andrews car accident | VIDEO Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 14, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | Ravens observations on up-and-down offense, big plays from young players and good signs from secondary Baltimore Ravens | Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris hospitalized, to miss ‘significant amount of time’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens TE Mark Andrews involved in car accident with ‘heavy damage’ but no injuries, police say Black will be in Baltimore for the Ravens’ home opener Sept. 15 against the Las Vegas Raiders. Walker relied on her for guidance throughout his life. That’ll continue even as a professional. Reaching the NFL was just as much her dream as it is his. “She’s the one I’ve leaned on, cried on,” Walker said. “She was one of the only ones who was there for me. That’s why I go so hard for her.” His winding journey continued — and largely still is. Walker spent a night in a hospital after a crushing hit from a Georgia Tech defensive back later that season. He dropped three balls and finished with zero catches on eight targets at the Senior Bowl, a showcase game for NFL draft entrants. He finally impressed at the scouting combine, where he ran the fourth-fastest 40-yard dash among the 30 receivers present. In April, the Ravens made Walker their fourth-round pick to pair his speed with their two-time Most Valuable Player at quarterback. Walker finally arrived at his desired destination, however bumpy the path there might have been. He faces new tests this preseason. He’s prepared. “Everybody’s story is different,” Harris said. “He could write a great book right now.” View the full article

View the full article

Baltimore Ravens cornerback T.J. Tampa focuses on the ball held by defensive back Brandon Stephens while practicing ball-stripping skills during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens cornerback Damarion Williams catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Dayton Wade runs during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) A slow shutter captures Baltimore Ravens defensive back Daryl Worley with a football being thrown during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens long snapper Nick Moore during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker stretches during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson twirls the football during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Anthony Miller during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens safety Ar’Darius Washington catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Anthony Miller during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) A Baltimore Ravens defender sprints past safety Marcus Williams who is blurred by the use of a slow shutter during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Isaiah Washington sprints during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens special teams coach Randy Brown gestures between running back John Kelly, left and cornerback Damarion Williams during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson passes during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens punter Jordan Stout catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens running back John Kelly during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Josh Johnson passes during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Josh Johnson receives the snap during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson passes during training camp at the Ravens’ training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) View the full article

Before practice even began, Wednesday proved to be an eventful day for those inside the Ravens’ facility. Just after noon, the team announced that tight end Mark Andrews was involved in a car accident while on his way to practice. Andrews was evaluated by team doctors, and coach John Harbaugh said after practice that the three-time Pro Bowl selection came out of the crash with “nothing at all, not a scrape.” Shortly after that announcement came news that offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris was hospitalized over the weekend with an “acute illness” that will keep the 70-year-old assistant out for an extended period. The Ravens have since hired longtime offensive line coach George Warhop to step in. Warhop, 62, has 40 years of coaching experience, with 27 seasons of work with NFL offensive lines. “[He’s] a guy that we’ve known for many years, and respected,” Harbaugh said. “[He’s] someone who [offensive coordinator] Todd [Monken] has worked with in the past, in Tampa Bay. Other coaches have known him and worked with him on our staff. He doesn’t know our system per se in terms of our terminology, but he can learn that very quickly.” On the field Wednesday, it was an intense, full-padded practice featuring an inconsistent offense, an energetic and heat-seeking defense, and some young players taking advantage of valuable, but scarce reps as the second preseason game approaches. Here are some observations from Wednesday’s practice: Offense flashes potential despite sloppy, inconsistent day Quarterback Lamar Jackson could be heard yelling in frustration several times after some miscommunications with his receivers. For example, he missed Rashod Bateman on a screen pass during the first drive of team drills. Jackson then threw his hands in the air after failing to connect with newly signed target Anthony Miller. But the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player’s worst throw might have been an off-target pass to Tylan Wallace, which landed in the hands of a waiting Kyle Hamilton for an interception. Jackson quickly bounced back, though, shaking off some bad throws — and being stepped on by one of his linemen — to find tight end Isaiah Likely several times for big gains across the middle. Second-year receiver Zay Flowers also got involved, making some nice catches down the sideline. When the offense stays on track and, most importantly, stays consistent, its big-play ability is clear. Jackson, however, will not play Saturday against the Atlanta Falcons, Harbaugh said. Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson passes during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Josh Johnson smile during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker stretches during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens special teams coach Randy Brown gestures between running back John Kelly, left and cornerback Damarion Williams during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens long snapper Nick Moore during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Josh Johnson receives the snap during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Josh Johnson passes during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens running back John Kelly during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens punter Jordan Stout catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson passes during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Anthony Miller during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Isaiah Washington sprints during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) A Baltimore Ravens defender sprints past safety Marcus Williams who is blurred by the use of a slow shutter during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Anthony Miller during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Anthony Miller during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens safety Ar'Darius Washington catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Anthony Miller during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson twirls the football during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens safety Beau Brade reaches from behind to swipe at the ball held by safety Ar'Darius Washington during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens cornerback Damarion Williams catches the ball during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Ravens rookie cornerback T.J. Tampa focuses on the ball held by defensive back Brandon Stephens during training camp practice Wednesday. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Dayton Wade runs during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) A slow shutter captures Baltimore Ravens defensive back Daryl Worley with a football being thrown during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens head football coach John Harbaugh speaks about the crash of a vehicle driven by tight end Mark Andrews during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterbacks Lamar Jackson, right, and Josh Johnson at the Ravens' training camp in Owings Mills. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterbacks Lamar Jackson, left, and Josh Johnson at the Ravens' training camp in Owings Mills. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Josh Johnson passing at the Ravens' training camp in Owings Mills. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Baltimore Ravens quarterback Josh Johnson passing at the Ravens' training camp in Owings Mills. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) Show Caption1 of 28Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson passes during training camp at the Ravens' training facility. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) Expand Good signs from a banged-up secondary Hamilton’s interception was a welcome sign as the All-Pro safety went through a full day of practice after limping off the field Sunday with an apparent left leg injury. With no knee brace or extra padding, Hamilton looks to be back to his normal, play-making self. The rookie defensive back duo of Nate Wiggins and T.J. Tampa also made an appearance. Tampa, the fourth-round draft pick who has been working his way back from offseason sports hernia surgery, was fully dressed, participating in position drills and looking good before leaving practice during the team period. Wiggins wasn’t in pads, but he worked off to the side with a trainer before also going inside the facility during team drills. The first-round draft pick, who suffered a shoulder injury during his impressive preseason debut last week, was just as spry and active, with his signature speed still on display. Let the kids play Whenever Jackson takes a step back and quarterbacks Josh Johnson, Emory Jones and Devin Leary take the reins, the deep shots and sidearm throws across the middle take a backseat to coverage sacks and checkdowns. But when the young players at the bottom of the depth chart are given a chance to make a play, they sure take advantage. Undrafted rookie receiver Isaiah Washington might have had the play of the day, rising over Hamilton to make a catch on a deep pass from Johnson that got the crowd buzzing. Rookie tight end Qadir Ismail also made a play when he was finally targeted down the field, securing a nice catch over the middle. Even the young players on defense took advantage, with rookie safety Beau Brade picking off Jackson. The interception was the highlight of camp so far for the former Maryland and River Hill star, even though it was nullified by an offside penalty. A big loss For the foreseeable future, the Ravens will be without the man affectionately known as “Joe D.” Under D’Alessandris, the Ravens have earned top-10 pass- and run-blocking rates in each of the past four seasons. The Ravens finished ninth in pass blocking and fifth in run blocking last season, according to ESPN. Already tasked with replacing three starters on the offensive line, the architect behind one of the league’s more successful units is now out as well for what is expected to be a “significant amount of time.” Translation: A tough task just got tougher for perhaps the team’s most important position group heading into the season opener Sept. 5 in Kansas City. View the full article

Longtime Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris will be absent from the team for a “significant amount of time” after being hospitalized over the weekend for what the team said is an acute illness. The 70-year-old assistant, who was hired in 2017 after a long coaching career in college and the NFL, underwent surgery over the summer, coach John Harbaugh said Wednesday. D’Alessandris is suffering from complications stemming from the procedure and remains hospitalized, with his daughters Anna, Kelly and Emily having also joined him, according to Harbaugh. “We love Joe D,” Harbaugh said following practice in Owings Mills. “It’s a blow, because he’s a great football coach. He’s beloved by the players, by the coaches. He’s a top game planner. He’s a top coach. He’s a huge part of our offense. “He’s going to be missed very much, but we’re going to be much more concerned about his health and his welfare and his well-being going forward.” In the meantime, the Ravens have hired George Warhop to coach the offensive line. Warhop, 62, has been an offensive line coach for several teams around the league since 1996, including the then-St. Louis Rams, Arizona Cardinals, Dallas Cowboys, San Francisco 49ers, Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars and most recently the Houston Texans in 2022. He spent just one season in Houston. There is also at least some familiarity with some of the Ravens’ coaching staff. In addition to having played against Harbaugh when the two were in college at Cincinnati and Miami (Ohio), respectively, Warhop’s career overlapped with Baltimore offense coordinator Todd Monken when the two were assistants for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Other members of the Ravens’ coaching staff have worked with Warhop as well. “It’s an interesting dilemma for sure,” Harbaugh said of needing to make the change. “He doesn’t know our system per se in terms of our terminology, but he can learn that very quickly. But he knows our techniques. He knows the style, the way we’re running the plays, the principles of the plays. He knows all that stuff. “He’s an experienced coach who knows that stuff inside and out, so he’ll step right in and he’ll start working with those guys right away.” George Warhop, pictured in 2021, has been an offensive line coach for several teams around the NFL since 1996. (AP Photo) Before the NFL, Warhop was an assistant for 11 years at the college level for Boston College, SMU, New Mexico, Vanderbilt, Kansas and Cincinnati. He also spent two seasons as the offensive coordinator for NFL Europe’s London Monarchs. This offseason, the Ravens also hired Travelle Warton as an assistant offensive line coach. He spent last year as the Washington Commanders’ offensive line coach. Being without D’Alessandris, however, is a loss. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens TE Mark Andrews involved in car accident with ‘heavy damage’ but no injuries, police say Baltimore Ravens | Ravens stock watch: Three rookies up, backup QBs down and the emergence of a surprise WR Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens observations on Lamar Jackson lighting it up, Anthony Miller making his case and more | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 13, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens led the NFL with 60 sacks in 2023. Doing it again will be a challenge. One of the league’s most respected position coaches, he has worked with several Pro Bowl linemen during his tenure in Baltimore, including Marshal Yanda, Ronnie Stanley, Orlando Brown Jr. and Tyler Linderbaum. The Ravens also have three starting positions up for grabs up front between both guard spots and right tackle. It’s been a difficult two years for D’Alessandris, whose wife of 42 years, Toni, died in May 2022 because of a rare form of Parkinson’s disease. “I don’t have that person to just talk to,” D’Alessandris told The Athletic last season. “I miss that.” Under D’Alessandris, the Ravens have had top-10 pass-blocking and run-blocking win rates each of the past four years, per ESPN, and last season allowed the fifth-fewest total pressures (160), according to Pro Football Focus. View the full article

Ravens tight end Mark Andrews was involved in a car accident while driving to the team’s facility in Owings Mills early Wednesday morning, the team said shortly before practice. The three-time Pro Bowl selection was evaluated by medical staff at the Ravens’ facility and did not suffer any apparent injuries, according to a statement from the team. He later joined the team for morning meetings. “He’s feeling good,” coach John Harbaugh said after practice, noting that the accident, which took place about 1 1/2 miles from the team’s facility, was “significant” and that Andrews was wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash. “He came out of it with nothing at all. Not a scrape.” According to a Baltimore County Police spokesperson, officers responded to the 9700 block of Lyons Mill Road in Owings Mills at approximately 9:45 a.m. about a motor vehicle crash involving two vehicles that sustained “heavy damage.” No injuries were reported, and the case remains open. The Ravens also said that Andrews, 28, was originally scheduled to have the day off from practice Wednesday and is expected to return to the field in “the coming days.” “I appreciate everyone’s thoughts and well wishes,” Andrews said in a statement. “This is a great reminder about the importance of wearing seatbelts and remaining alert while driving a car.” When exactly Andrews will return to the field is unknown. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris hospitalized, to miss ‘significant amount of time’ Baltimore Ravens | Ravens stock watch: Three rookies up, backup QBs down and the emergence of a surprise WR Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens observations on Lamar Jackson lighting it up, Anthony Miller making his case and more | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 13, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens led the NFL with 60 sacks in 2023. Doing it again will be a challenge. The Ravens will practice again Thursday before a walk-through Friday and will play their second preseason game Saturday afternoon against the Atlanta Falcons at M&T Bank Stadium. The team then heads to Green Bay for a joint practice with the Packers next Thursday before their preseason finale two days later at Lambeau Field. Andrews is coming off a season in which he appeared in just 10 games during the regular season because of an ankle injury he suffered in Week 11 against the Cincinnati Bengals at M&T Bank Stadium. He finished with 45 catches for 544 yards and a team-high six receiving touchdowns before returning for the AFC championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs with two catches for 15 yards in the 17-10 loss. Baltimore will open the regular season Sept. 5 against the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. View the full article

There are still two more Ravens preseason games, including one Saturday afternoon at M&T Bank Stadium against the Atlanta Falcons, and 22 days until the season opener against the two-time defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. But the end is near. Baltimore held its 18th practice of training camp Tuesday, with another roughly eight to come before the roster must be trimmed from 90 players to 53, with up to an additional 16 designated for the practice squad. In other words, for those on the bubble and others looking to ascend toward peak performance in preparation for a Super Bowl or bust season, time is relatively short. With a healthy dose of practices and one preseason game behind them, here is a look at the Ravens who have been on the rise and those who have slid the other direction. Stock up Cornerback Nate Wiggins The Ravens’ first-round draft pick has lived up to his billing. In practice, he’s been fast, aggressive (sometimes overly so) and made multiple interceptions. In last Friday’s preseason opener against the Philadelphia Eagles, he shined from the start, successfully defending three passes on the game’s opening series, including one on fourth down. He continued his stellar play in the second half until suffering a shoulder injury, which was not deemed serious. Wiggins looks to have the ability — and swagger — of a shutdown corner who the Ravens can count on for years to come. Safety Ar’Darius Washington After losing two straight seasons to injuries, the third one has been the charm for the former undrafted free agent. The 5-foot-8, 180-pound Washington has been all over the field for Baltimore, playing both safety positions as well as the nickel and making plays on the ball daily. “He can play either corner outside, if he had to, to get you out of a game, and he can go in a dime [six defensive backs formation] if he had to — he knows the defense that well,” coach John Harbaugh said. “He’s fulfilling what we’ve always hoped he would do, and I really expect him to have a big year, and I think he’s going to play good football for us. It’s a big deal.” Especially with slot corner Arthur Maulet out with a knee injury at least into the early part of the regular season and the possibility of the Ravens playing more dime this season. Right tackle Roger Rosengarten There were questions about whether Rosengarten, the Ravens’ second-round draft pick this year out of Washington, was strong enough to handle the bull rush, particularly in an AFC North that is loaded with pass rushers. But he held his own over 18 snaps against the Eagles, earning what will be an uptick in playing time this week against the Falcons. He’s continued to look the part in practice, too, showing stability, good hands and quick feet. With the Ravens’ preference is to continue to use veteran Patrick Mekari as a swing tackle and their best sixth-man option, Rosengarten seems to be the clear favorite to land the starting role. Wide receiver Anthony Miller The former Chicago Bears second-round pick hasn’t played in a game since the 2021 season and bounced around a few different practice squads since. He has only been with the Ravens since Sunday, but has already made his presence felt with several catches. That included Tuesday, when he got by cornerback Marlon Humphrey during one-on-one drills and hauled in a long touchdown pass from Lamar Jackson. Then Jackson hit the receiver again during a 7-on-7 period with a perfectly thrown deep ball down the sideline that Miller caught between Washington and cornerback Ka’dar Hollman. Given the lack of production from the back end of the Ravens’ receiving corps, Miller could possibly make a push for a roster spot or more likely the practice squad. Ravens rookie Qadir Ismail is skinny for a tight end, but he plays physical. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Tight end Qadir Ismail The son of former Ravens receiver Qadry Ismail, the undrafted free agent out of Samford has been making at least one nice catch every practice and often more than that. But what has surprised Harbaugh, he said, is Ismail’s ability as a blocker. At 6-6 and 215 pounds, Ismail is skinny for a tight end, but he plays physical. While he won’t make the 53-man roster given Baltimore’s talent and depth at the position, he seems almost assured of a spot on the practice squad. Pretty remarkable for a player who had just 16 catches in 14 games over two seasons with the Bulldogs. “He’s definitely an NFL player’s and coach’s kid,” Harbaugh said. “He’s tough, he’s not afraid. He throws it in there and plays bigger than his size. I think he’s doing a good job.” Stock down Quarterbacks Josh Johnson, Devin Leary, Emory Jones The biggest problem the Ravens have when it comes to backing up Jackson is not so much the men behind him, but the lack of affordability for the role. No matter who’s on the roster, the drop-off from Jackson is so significant that it’s largely not worth investing the capital, save for drafting a player every year. This year, that was Leary, whom the Ravens took in the sixth-round and has looked every bit of a fringe NFL quarterback at best. At 38 years old, Johnson provides vast experience, though he hasn’t played in a game since 2022 and has appeared in just 39 since 2009. Jones, meanwhile, was thrust into the end of the Eagles game cold and was strip-sacked in his first and only snap, resulting in the game-winning field goal as time expired. Johnson will remain the backup out of necessity and familiarity, but none of the three have impressed. Ravens rookie running back Rasheen Ali suffered a stinger against the Eagles, making his bid for a roster spot for difficult. Running back Rasheen Ali With the No. 3 running back job up for grabs behind Derrick Henry and Justice Hill, the competition has centered around the fifth-round rookie Ali and second-year player Owen Wright. While neither has stood out the way, say, Keaton Mitchell did last year, Wright outperformed Ali in the preseason opener, much the way he has throughout camp. Making matters worse for Ali was that he suffered a stinger in the game and through Tuesday has yet to practice since. That won’t help him win the job. Offensive lineman Malaesala Aumavae-Laulu A year ago, Aumavae-Laulu took first-team reps at left guard during the first two weeks of training camp, was talked about as a potential starter, then didn’t play a snap during the regular season. Now in his second year, he’s made progress but has been largely an afterthought in the offensive line competition and has not been getting first-team reps. He’ll probably make the roster, but his showing against the Eagles did not stand out as he earned a dismal 31.5 grade from Pro Football Focus. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens observations on Lamar Jackson lighting it up, Anthony Miller making his case and more | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 13, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens led the NFL with 60 sacks in 2023. Doing it again will be a challenge. Baltimore Ravens | How Ravens’ Patrick Ricard is helping lead ‘resurgence’ of NFL fullbacks Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens observations on Rashod Bateman and T.J. Tampa returning, Tavius Robinson’s potential and more | COMMENTARY Wide receiver Devontez Walker The fourth-round rookie was thought to be something of an answer to the Ravens’ deep ball woes. That hasn’t been the case. Against the Eagles, Walker got 19 snaps and had zero catches on just one target. Some of that could be pinned to the rocky quarterback play, and Harbaugh noted that Walker has been dealing with a rib issue. Still, other receivers have outperformed him in camp thus far, with the former North Carolina star only very occasionally making a notable play. Wide receiver Rashod Bateman Speaking of players dealing with injuries, Bateman has been hampered again with some sort of lower body issue that kept him out of practice for a week. After returning this week, he still doesn’t look quite right, though he did fully participate Tuesday. Earlier this summer, he and Jackson found a nice but brief rhythm. That’s yet to re-materialize. Perhaps it will once the season begins, which is all that really matters. View the full article

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson had the type of performance Tuesday that he needs to have in the postseason. In the past, opposing teams have been able to shut down the Ravens’ running game and force Jackson to beat them by throwing outside the numbers or down the field. It didn’t help that Jackson hasn’t had a legitimate No. 1 receiver over the previous six years. On Tuesday’s practice in Owings Mills, Jackson lit up the secondary with the long ball. He connected with tight end Mark Andrews on a roughly 50-yard touchdown pass down the left sideline and then threw another long touchdown pass to newly signed wide receiver Anthony Miller on the next play. Seconds later, the Ravens scored again on the long pass, this one to receiver Nelson Agholor straight down the middle. These passes weren’t toss-ups or jump balls — Jackson hit receivers perfectly in stride. We’ve seen this type of accuracy on occasion from the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player in previous years, but not as consistently as Tuesday. This isn’t to say that Jackson is now more accurate, but at least there is potential for him to excel in the postseason. Opposing teams are going to stack the line of scrimmage to shut down running back Derrick Henry, and Jackson will have to make these types of plays if the Ravens want to get to the Super Bowl. Miller making his case Receiver Rashod Bateman was in on a lot of team drills Tuesday, which was much different than Monday when he only participated in individual matchups. At this point, the Ravens are just glad that Bateman is back on the field after he missed time with an injury that coach John Harbaugh described as not serious. But Bateman better get into shape quickly. Miller, a fifth-year veteran who joined the team this week, has come up with big catches the past two days and took some repetitions with the first group Tuesday. The 2018 second-round draft pick has good explosion, goes in and out of breaks well and has no fear going up to make the big catch. If the Ravens decide to keep Miller, he gives the team depth and might challenge Bateman and Agholor for playing time during the regular season. Injury updates Safety Kyle Hamilton participated in a full workout after suffering a “sprain” in Sunday’s practice. Hamilton gets slighted because he is a big safety at 6-foot-4 and 224 pounds, but he has good speed and it showed when the Ravens played him over the top and he had to cover a receiver to the opposite side of the field. Those long legs can make up ground quickly. Cornerback T.J. Tampa practiced but left the field early before the first 11-on-11 session. The rookie fourth-round pick was just cleared Monday to return from the physically unable to perform list because of a sports hernia, and Harbaugh said the team was trying to rev him up Monday. Drop and give me 20 There was more of the old-school element at practice. When safety Marcus Williams dropped a deep pass that he easily should have intercepted, he dropped to the ground and quickly knocked off about 20 push-ups. It reminds me of the offensive linemen running a lap around the practice field if they jump offside. Accountability is a good thing and needs to be incorporated into more practices on the recreation and high school levels. He’s hungry There was another Miller sighting. On a 40-yard pass from backup quarterback Josh Johnson, he wrestled the ball away from cornerback Ka’dar Hollman. Miller isn’t playing around. He’s hungry to make this team. Offensive line updates Second-year left guard Andrew Vorhees might be the best trap blocker on the team. He had a great one against the Philadelphia Eagles in the preseason opener, and he knows how to get low and explode through an opponent. The best thing is that he puts his head on the outside and forces his opponent to run around him, which basically takes the defender out of the play. That doesn’t happen a lot in the NFL anymore. Related Articles Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 13, 2024 | PHOTOS Baltimore Ravens | The Ravens led the NFL with 60 sacks in 2023. Doing it again will be a challenge. Baltimore Ravens | How Ravens’ Patrick Ricard is helping lead ‘resurgence’ of NFL fullbacks Baltimore Ravens | Mike Preston’s Ravens observations on Rashod Bateman and T.J. Tampa returning, Tavius Robinson’s potential and more | COMMENTARY Baltimore Ravens | Ravens training camp, August 12, 2024 | PHOTOS As for Josh Jones, I thought he would challenge for the starting job at right tackle when the Ravens signed him to a one-year deal in March, but the 27-year-old hasn’t been overly impressive. In fact, it’s easy to understand why the Ravens might start rookie Roger Rosengarten at that position over Jones despite the gap in experience. As for starting left tackle Ronnie Stanley, he had a tough day against outside linebacker Odafe Oweh. Oweh didn’t just eat his lunch, but his dinner, too. Getting back to business It looks like receiver-return specialist Deonte Harty is back to normal after missing some time with a soft-tissue injury in his lower leg. The Ravens worked him in as a receiver and he did field some kickoff returns. The former Middle River resident and Archbishop Curley graduate is expected to be the team’s top return specialist this year. When asked if Harty would play in the last two preseason games, special teams coach Chris Horton said: “Do I have a chance of putting him out there? I think we’ll get him out there at some point and just see where he is. [We] haven’t decided how much we want to get him out there because I know what he can do as a returner, but I definitely think we will see him at some point.” View the full article

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers catches a pass during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Aug 13, 2024: Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens QB Josh Johnson during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Isaiah Washington catches a pass during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Devontez Walker catches a pass during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens QB Josh Johnson during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Dayton Wade catches a pass during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Aug 13, 2024: Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Deonte Harty catches a pass during training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken training camp at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff) View the full article