News Ravens Team Notes

[Baltimore Ravens]

Is Ronnie Stanley the Ravens’ biggest X-factor in 2025?

Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

An X-factor is generally defined as something or someone that has a possesses a strong influence but can be unpredictable in nature. As it relates to the NFL, an X-factor can be a player that is influential in how a team will perform but they’re predictability or reliability is volatile.

A team can have several different X-factors, but some players can have more influential role than others. For the Baltimore Ravens, is starting left tackle Ronnie Stanley the team’s biggest X-factor in 2025?

An ESPN ranking of the league’s top rosters recently listed Stanley as such, citing his injury history and risk of potentially missing games. It is true that the 31-year-old has a checkered past with injuries which, up until last season, had altered his status as an elite left tackle.

However, Stanley surprisingly turned the tide last season in a pivotal contract year. He played in every regular season game for the first time in his career and returned to a higher level of play. In doing so, Stanley earned himself a three-year contract extension, which the Ravens inked him to early in the offseason.

That was a pivotal move for the team, as it avoided the Ravens needing to find a new left tackle via the draft or elsewhere. When healthy, Stanley has always been a pivotal part of the team’s core and offensive identity and scheme since being drafted in 2016. While he may not be at the same best-in-the-league level he was several years ago, Stanley proved last season he’s still a top-level player at his position.

It is true, though, that his availability remains a crucial component of the Ravens’ success. If Stanley were to miss time, it would put the Ravens in a bind. They lost their reliable veteran backup swing tackle, Patrick Mekari, in free agency — who had previously filled in for Stanley routinely over the years.

They replaced Mekari by signing another veteran in Joe Noteboom, who currently projects as the primary backup to Stanley. The Ravens also drafted a potential swing tackle in Emery Jones Jr. and another pure offensive tackle, Carson Vinson, in the fifth round. However, the former is currently injured, and the latter profiles as a developmental prospect.

In recent years when Stanley has been absent due to injury, we’ve seen a drop-off in play from the left tackle spot — which can have an obvious negative impact on the entire offensive line play. Stanley’s role as Lamar Jackson’s blindside protector is paramount.

In the event that he was sidelined for an extended period of time in 2025, the Ravens would be forced into a scramble. They’d either have to simply plug in Noteboom or another backup option and hope they can exceed expectations or possibly rotate tackle options, which is something they’ve done before in recent years.

For the Ravens to once again to have a successful offensive season and ultimately reach their super bowl aspirations, their offensive line will need to play at a high level. That very largely hinges on the availability and performance of Stanley.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...-in-2025-baltimore-left-tackle-offensive-line

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens training camp 2025: Jaire Alexander to return after knee swelling drained; Rashod Bateman ill

Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images

Health updates on the Baltimore Ravens following Day 5 of Training Camp.

There have been a few notable training camp absences for the Baltimore Ravens through their first five days of camp. Fortunately, the reasons for their absence aren’t anything significant, according to Head Coach John Harbaugh.

On Monday, July 28, both cornerback Jaire Alexander and wide receiver Rashod Bateman did not practice. Harbaugh provided updates on both.

“[Alexander] had a little swelling and I think we drained his knee today. He should be back tomorrow,” Harbaugh said. “Rashod got sent home because he was sick. And he was not happy but we didn’t want him getting everybody else sick.”

According to reports, Jalyn Armour-Davis went down during team drills and did not return. Also absent was rookie cornerback Bilhal Kone. Harbaugh provided updates on both.

“Armour-Davis we’ll find out about,” Harbaugh said. “I don’t think it’s too serious but we’ll find out. He’s going to get an MRI. I think it’s okay. Kone landed on his shoulder yesterday. I expect him to be back very, very soon. It’s just going to kind of be a pain-tolerance thing.”

The player most needing to not miss time will be Armour-Davis, who is fighting an uphill battle to make the Ravens’ 53-man roster. Throughout his career, Armour-Davis has frequently missed time due to injury. In his three years with the Ravens, he’s played 19 games.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...fter-knee-swelling-drained-rashod-bateman-ill

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens TE Isaiah Likely suffers ankle injury; expected to miss ‘a few weeks’

Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images

Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely suffered an ankle injury in training camp on Tuesday. Head Coach John Harbaugh said he’ll get an MRI tomorrow to find the extent of injury.

While unsubstantiated rumors swirl about a possible contract extension for Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely, bad news came out of training camp as he suffered a left foot/ankle injury. According to The Baltimore Banner’s Giana Han, Likely suffered the injury and was seen punching the ground in frustration. He then hobbled into the building putting little weight on his foot.

After practice, Head Coach John Harbaugh said Likely is expected to miss a few weeks and that he’ll be getting an MRI tomorrow to know the extent of the injury and timeline.

“We’ll know more tomorrow,” Harbaugh said. “It’s going to be a few weeks, though. He rolled his ankle — foot area. So, he’ll get an MRI tomorrow to see exactly what needs to be done. But it’ll be a few weeks. It’s good that it’s just early in camp.”

Barring a significant injury, it sounds as though Likely will miss training camp and likely preseason, but could be available for the beginning of the season when the Ravens face the Buffalo Bills in Week 1 on Sept. 7.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...ers-ankle-injury-expected-to-miss-a-few-weeks

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Report: Isaiah Likely to miss training camp with injury

Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images

ESPN’s Jamison Hensley and Jeremy Fowler report Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely suffered a foot fracture that puts his Week 1 status in question.

According to ESPN’s Jamison Hensley and Jeremy Fowler, Baltimore Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely suffered a fracture in his foot on July 29.

The injury is expected to keep Likely out from training camp. Fortunately, Likely may be available for their Week 1 opener when the Ravens face the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium on Sept. 7.

With Likely out, the Ravens will turn to Charlie Kolar as their No. 2 tight end behind Mark Andrews as the team boasts the deepest tight end unit in the NFL.

Both Kolar and Likely were drafted in 2022, but have been used vastly different in the Ravens’ offense. Kolar’s production’s derived from blocking, while Likely’s been a receiving target for Lamar Jackson. That isn’t to say Kolar cannot be a receiving threat, as he’s caught 20 passes for 267 yards and two touchdowns.

This season is significant for Likely — in fact all three tight ends, as each are in the final year of their contracts.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...ining-camp-with-foot-injury-could-play-week-1

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ricky Williams talks final season in Baltimore: ‘Football-wise, [Baltimore] is like no other’

Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images

Former Ravens running back Ricky Williams talks about his final NFL season with the Baltimore Ravens

In August 2011, the Baltimore Ravens signed long-time Miami Dolphins running back Ricky Williams to a multi-year deal after losing Willis McGahee to free agency.

That season, the Ravens would go on to face the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game, but fall short in a heart-breaker. Late in the fourth quarter, Williams’ seven-yard rush would end up being his last, as he informed the Ravens on Feb. 7, 2012, that he would be hanging up the cleats — this time, for good.

Williams joined Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson on July 29 to talk all things NFL and beyond, and a part of the conversation was his final season in the NFL with the Ravens.

“Football-wise, it’s like no other,” Williams said. “That’s a football town. The fans love it. On ‘Purple Fridays,’ everybody’s sporting their Ravens gear.”

Williams was an enigmatic individual. His career began with him posing on the cover of ESPN Magazine in a wedding dress with the late New Orleans Head Coach Mike Ditka sporting a wedding tuxedo. He retired five seasons into his career, disgruntled with the Dolphins’ quarterback situation, before returning a season later. He failed numerous drug tests; his fourth violation resulted in him being ineligible for the 2006 NFL season. He was raw, he was real, he was human. And his history and faults made it a challenge in earning the Ravens’ trust.

“I think one of the most difficult things — and I’m guessing this is in any sport – is changing teams late in your career.” Williams said. “Because where you grow up, where everybody knows you, there’s benefit of the doubt. They get you. And when you take that to another team, you have to start all over again. You have to rebuild that personal reputation. So, that part was challenging, being in Baltimore, because everybody was used to me in Miami.”

While earning the team’s trust was a challenge, Williams played in all 16 games for the Ravens in 2011, finishing with 108 carries for 444 yards and two touchdowns.

He also shared the field with legends, which he relished. And, he credited the organization for the way they treat their players.

“It was a great experience playing with Ed Reed and Ray Lewis and Terrell Suggs and Haloti Ngata,” Williams said. “Just playing with really good football players. And again, being in that organization. The Ravens really do a good job of taking care of the players.”

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...more-football-wise-baltimore-is-like-no-other

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Baltimore Ravens All Quarter Century Team: Defensive Tackle No. 2

Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images

Brandon Williams and Nnamdi Madubuike remain as they fight for the right to join Haloti Ngata as the second defensive tackle named to the Ravens Quarter Century Team.

Unsurprisingly, Haloti Ngata was voted to the Ravens Quarter Century Team as the first defensive tackle and overall first defender. With him out of the picture, it’s time to find his running mate along the interior.

Remaining we have former long-time Raven Brandon Willliams and current Ravens playmaker Nnamdi Madubuike. Will nostalgia help Williams make the team, or will current hype allow Madubuike to break through?

Let’s go to the poll!

Brandon Williams (2013-2021)​

Williams joined the Ravens as an unlikely prospect out of Division II Missouri Southern. He played nine strong seasons in Baltimore as a consistent run defender whose impact didn’t quite show up in the box score all that often. In 2018, Williams earned his first and only Pro Bowl honor after posting 32 tackles, three tackles for loss, and one sack while starting all 16 games.

He ended his Ravens career with 323 total tackles, 33 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and five fumble recoveries (with one returned for a score).

Nnamdi Madubuike (2020-2024)​

Madubuike is the only current Raven on this list and he’s currently coming off the best two-season stretch of his five-year career. The former Texas A&M Aggie has been named to the Pro Bowl each of the past two seasons and is just one year removed from being a Second-Team All-Pro.

After starting just three games as a rookie, Madubuike won the starting job in 2021 and never looked back. From 2021-2023, his production grew exponentially from just two sacks, to 5.5, then to a whopping 13 in his all-pro season.

Through five seasons, Madubuike has career totals of 196 tackles, 40 tackles for loss, 28 sacks, six passes defended, and two forced fumbles.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...entury-team-nnamdi-madubuike-brandon-williams

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Baltimore Ravens All Quarter Century Team: Defensive Tackle No. 1

Photo by Tim Umphrey/Getty Images

We’re on to the defense! Will Haloti Ngata be the first defensive player added to the Ravens Quarter Century Team?

We are now on to the defense!

First up, we’re picking a pair of defensive tackles to flesh out the interior. We’ve got a trio consisting of two longtime Ravens and a current Raven who is just entering the prime of his career.

Who will be the first defender named to the Ravens Quarter Century Team? Let’s go ahead and find out!

Haloti Ngata (2006-2014)​

Ngata was drafted by the Ravens in the first round of the 2006 NFL Draft out of the University of Oregon. The massive defender made one of the biggest plays of his career as a rookie when he intercepted a pass and ran it back a whopping 60 yards. He ended year one with just one sack and two tackles for loss, but his play still earned him a spot on the 2006 PFWA All-Rookie Team.

In his nine years with the Ravens, Ngata started 133 of his 135 games played. He would go on to be named a First-Team All-Pro twice (2010-2011), a Second-Team All-Pro three times (2008-2009, 2013), and earned Pro Bowl nod for five consecutive seasons (2009-2013). In 2012, he played a key role in helping the Ravens beat the 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII.

He ended his time in Baltimore with 447 tackles, 51 tackles for loss, 25.5 sacks, five interceptions, 32 passes defended, six forced fumbles, and five fumble recoveries (one returned for a touchdown).

Brandon Williams (2013-2021)​

Williams joined the Ravens as an unlikely prospect out of Division II Missouri Southern. He played nine strong seasons in Baltimore as a consistent run defender whose impact didn’t quite show up in the box score all that often. In 2018, Williams earned his first and only Pro Bowl honor after posting 32 tackles, three tackles for loss, and one sack while starting all 16 games.

He ended his Ravens career with 323 total tackles, 33 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and five fumble recoveries (with one returned for a score).

Nnamdi Madubuike (2020-2024)​

Madubuike is the only current Raven on this list and he’s currently coming off the best two-season stretch of his five-year career. The former Texas A&M Aggie has been named to the Pro Bowl each of the past two seasons and is just one year removed from being a Second-Team All-Pro.

After starting just three games as a rookie, Madubuike won the starting job in 2021 and never looked back. From 2021-2023, his production grew exponentially from just two sacks, to 5.5, then to a whopping 13 in his all-pro season.

Through five seasons, Madubuike has career totals of 196 tackles, 40 tackles for loss, 28 sacks, six passes defended, and two forced fumbles.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...aloti-ngata-justin-madubuike-brandon-williams

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens a top-ranked team in power rankings: ‘world’s best bet to keep the Chiefs out’

Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images

The Ravens are one of the highest-ranked teams in pre-season power rankings.

The Baltimore Ravens have one of the NFL’s best constructed rosters with the top-flight star power and strong depth to contend for the Super Bowl. Routinely, they’ve been ranked one of the best in pre-season power rankings and for FOX Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano, they’re No. 2, behind the reigning Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles.

“They have been on the doorstep of the Super Bowl for a few years now, and this could be the year that they finally get in,” Vacchiano wrote. “They are bringing almost their entire team back, including, of course, MVP runner-up quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry. As long as those two are healthy, the Ravens are as dangerous as anyone. And oh, by the way, they added veteran receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who isn’t what he used to be, but could still be an impact player if he’s healthy. With the NFL’s best offense and a top-10 defense, they might be the world’s best bet to keep the Chiefs out of another Super Bowl.”

The roster construction from General Manager Eric DeCosta has the Ravens in prime position to contend for the Super Bowl and do so from a top-seeded position. Both the offense and defense are primed with star talent, from MVPs to All-Pros to Pro Bowlers.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...kings-worlds-best-best-to-keep-the-chiefs-out

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens re-sign veteran DL Brent Urban

Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

The Baltimore Ravens are no strangers to making additions to their roster late in the summer, which they’ve done routinely with veteran free agents over the years. On Saturday, they did so again - bringing back a familiar face in defensive lineman Brent Urban.

Back in Baltimore @urbanlegend96 pic.twitter.com/AyzxttHXLS

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 2, 2025​

Urban, 34, has played the past three seasons with the Ravens in his second stint with the team. He began his career in Baltimore as a 2014 fourth-round pick and played three seasons before departing and playing for three other teams over the next few years. It seemed like the Ravens may not bring him back once more this time around but ultimately have decided for another encore.

Urban has been a trusty player for the Ravens’ defense and quality depth piece in the defensive line rotation. He’s played between 23-29% of defensive snaps for the team over the past three seasons while chipping in on special teams as well. Urban is not a stat sheet stuffer but is a good space-eater and stalwart presence at 6-foot-7.

He’s also been a positive locker room and off-the-field character as well. Urban notably had a strong relationship with fellow veteran defensive tackle Michael Pierce, who retired this offseason. Now, Urban will honor Pierce by wearing his prior jersey number of No. 58.

In previous years, the Ravens have not included Urban as part of their initial 53-man roster finalization but come to a “handshake agreement” — where they quickly sign him after placing a player on injured reserve. That could be the case once more in several weeks.

The Ravens made two other moves to add defensive line depth earlier this offseason, signing John Jenkins and drafting Aeneas Peebles in the sixth round. These two and Urban can serve to provide depth behind the starting trio of Nnamdi Madubuike, Travis Jones, and Broderick Washington.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...n-veteran-dl-brent-urban-baltimore-free-agent

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Which player will take the biggest leap for the Ravens’ offense in 2025?

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The speedy WR could be in line for more playing time

The Ravens have an embarrassment of riches on the offensive side of the ball. The main contributors should be easy to guess, from quarterback Lamar Jackson and running back Derrick Henry to wide receivers Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and DeAndre Hopkins, as well as tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely.

With so many star players in the lineup already, it will be hard for anyone else to find meaningful playing time, barring injuries. Still, there are a few candidates who could take a significant leap in their quality of play on the field this year, even if in a smaller role.

Today’s Question of the Day is:

Which player will take the biggest leap for the Ravens’ offense in 2025?​

My answer: Devontez Walker

While I previously picked third-year running back Keaton Mitchell as my candidate for the biggest increased role in Baltimore’s offense, I believe that it is Walker who will show the most growth from last season.

Walker, a fourth-round pick out of North Carolina, barely saw the field with the Ravens’ offense in 2024. Walker’s lone reception for the season went for 21 yards and a touchdown. While it will be difficult for Walker to become a staple of Baltimore’s passing attack with the players currently ahead of him in the lineup, he can still make the most of his opportunities and carve out a nice role.

By all reports, the deep-threat receiver is off to the right start so far in training camp ahead of his second season.

Tez Walker’s been knocking on the door in camp, and he’s breaking through today.

He followed a nice sliding grab of a Cooper Rush pass with a win downfield vs. Nate Wiggins for a 30ish-yard catch on a Lamar Jackson bomb.

— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) July 26, 2025​

If Walker can become a big-play deep threat, even if only occasionally, then defenses will have to respect yet another factor of the Ravens’ dominant offense.

Which player do you think will take the biggest leap for the Ravens’ offense in 2025? Scroll down to the comment section and let us know!

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...or-the-ravens-offense-in-2025-devontez-walker

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens sign veteran RB D’Ernest Johnson

Photo by Vince Mignott/DeFodi Images via Getty Images

As the Ravens continue to make some minor additions on the fringes of their roster in training camp, they made an offensive signing on Saturday. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the Ravens were signing veteran running back D’Ernest Johnson.

Ravens are signing free-agent running back D’Ernest Johnson, per source.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 2, 2025​

Johnson is a six-year veteran who played his first four seasons with the Cleveland Browns, so the Ravens are familiar with his game. He then joined the Jacksonville Jaguars over the past two years. Johnson has primarily worked in a backup/reserve role during his career but has had some productive moments.

For his career, the Florida native has been efficient with his opportunities, averaging 4.6 yards per carry and 8.8 yards per reception. Johnson’s best season came in 2021, where he rushed for 534 yards on 5.3 yards per carry with three touchdowns.

For the Ravens, Johnson is likely to cap out as a preseason and training camp body with slim chances to make the 53-man roster. Johnson figures to see heavy preseason action in lieu of Derrick Henry and Justice Hill. However, if the team wanted to keep a No. 4 running back, he could compete with rising sophomore Rasheen Ali for that role.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...ran-rb-dernest-johnson-baltimore-running-back

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens sign pair of young tight ends following Isaiah Likely’s injury

Photo by Mitchell Layton/Getty Images

Earlier this week, the Baltimore Ravens received unfortunate injury news when tight end Isaiah Likely suffered a foot fracture in practice. It was then revealed that Likely would need surgery with a roughly six-week recovery timeline, putting his status for Week 1 in jeopardy.

In light of this development, the Ravens have moved quickly to reinforce depth. Over the weekend, the team agreed to terms with a familiar face in Scotty Washington and second-year tight end Baylor Cupp.

The Ravens are expected to sign tight end Scotty Washington, sources tell @CBSSports.

The 6-foot-5, 240-pound Washington was on Baltimore’s practice squad the last two years. Now set to return to the team. pic.twitter.com/UQ1yrTYK7e

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) August 2, 2025​

One other #Ravens roster note: Baltimore is signing tight end Baylor Cupp, sources tell @CBSSports.

The 6-foot-6, 245-pound Cupp is a former top recruit who played collegiately at Texas A&M and Texas Tech. Spent last year on the Kansas City Chiefs’ practice squad. https://t.co/HB6v59mMKw pic.twitter.com/kGaRzIbTpc

— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) August 2, 2025​

Washington has been a member of the team’s practice squad over the past two years. The 28-year-old has gotten some preseason run with the Ravens but has never cracked the active roster.

For his career, his lone regular season appearance came with the New England Patriots during the 2022 season. At 6-foot-5 and 242 pounds, Washington has a prototypical physical profile quite similar to Likely’s.

Cupp, meanwhile, played for the Kansas City Chiefs’ practice squad last season after going undrafted out of Texas Tech. Cupp appeared in one regular season matchup for the Chiefs and played six offensive snaps.

With Mark Andrews and Charlie Kolar still in the fold, the Ravens remain in a solid position at tight end even with Likely potentially set to miss early-season action. Hybrid fullback Pat Ricard is an integral part of the rotation as well. However, the team could ultimately look to keep another player in the fold on the initial 53-man roster.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...ah-likelys-injury-baltimore-scotty-washington

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

John Harbaugh says Andrew Vorhees has lead in left guard competition

Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

Andrew Vorhees has the lead over Ben Cleveland

One of the few spots open for grabs on a loaded Baltimore Ravens team heading into the 2025 season is the left guard position.

With the departure of veteran Patrick Mekari in free agency, the attention turned towards third-year Andrew Vorhees as the most likely candidate to fill the opening. Vorhees started the 2024 season as the starter at left guard before an injury sidelined him early in the year, paving the way for Mekari to take his spot.

Vorhees appeared as the starter once more in the final game of the regular season against the Pittsburgh Steelers when the Ravens rested several starters — appearing much improved from his early-season performance before the injury.

Ravens head coach John Harbaugh was asked when he would like to have the competition for left guard settled.

“I want to have it settled now, today, but I think we’ll know by the end of this next game, probably,” Harbaugh said. “Andrew [Vorhees] has the lead. Andrew Vorhees is in the lead. Something would have to change. I will say, with Ben [Cleveland], he’ll tell you, the first, three or four days didn’t look too good. Then, the next three or four days looked really good, so [that’s] good for Ben. Andrew has looked good all the way through, so he’s in the lead at this point.”

The offensive line remains the only questionable area for an otherwise stacked offense for Baltimore. With another year of experience under their belt, it is fair to expect both guards, Daniel Faalele and Vorhees, to perform better this year.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...-lead-in-left-guard-competition-ben-cleveland

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Which player will take the biggest leap for the Ravens’ defense in 2025?

The Baltimore Ravens are loaded from front to back on defense with star players at every level of the unit. With so much talent in the starting lineup, it will be harder for unproven players to have chances of becoming key contributors. There are a few positions where younger players can break through due to a lack of proven depth, though, most notably at safety, inside linebacker, and defensive tackle.

Today’s Question of the Day is:

Which player will take the biggest leap for the Ravens’ defense in 2025?​

My answer: Sanoussi Kane

Kane was my choice for which defensive player will have a bigger role for Baltimore in 2025, which would in turn suggest that his play on the field has noticeably improved from his rookie season. While Kyle Hamilton and rookie first-round pick Malaki Starks are the starters at safety, Kane has a chance to fill a valuable role as the third safety who is called upon to play the backend to allow Hamilton to move closer to the line of scrimmage. This role would have been filled by either Starks or Ar’Darius Washington before Washington suffered a torn Achilles earlier this offseason.

Ravens defensive coordinator Zach Orr spoke about Kane’s progress heading into his second season.

“Sanoussi [Kane] has always been a really smart player and a physical player,” Orr said. “I think he’s moving better in the backend than what he did last year, so that’s a credit to what he did in the offseason and [in] training. He’s moving a lot better. He’s comfortable with the system, so he’s doing a heck of a job.”

Fellow second-year safety Beau Brade is competing with Kane for snaps this season, so either way, Baltimore will be relying on several young players on the backend of the defense.

Which player do you think will take the biggest leap for the Ravens’ defense in 2025? Scroll down to the comment section and let us know!

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...-for-the-ravens-defense-in-2025-sanoussi-kane

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Welcome to the new Baltimore Beatdown: A fresh look, fewer ads and a new feature

Things will look a little different around here today.

A few weeks ago we told you something new was coming to Baltimore Beatdown and today it’s here. Things are cleaner, faster and easier to use. There are the same writers, coverage, comments, and community you’ve come to rely on, now with less clutter and clunkiness.

Let’s dive in. If you scroll down the page on your phone or computer, it’s smoother. You’ll notice that the most talked-about stories have a bigger font displaying the number of comments. You’ll also see a section called Active Conversations to point you to the busiest conversations right now.

But there’s two changes we’re most excited to tell you about:

Fewer ads for logged-in users​

Our loyal readers and commenters are the heartbeat of our communities, and with this new design we’re excited to offer them fewer ads when they’re logged in. Specifically:

• Video players will no longer chase you down the page. Just scroll past one and it will be gone.
• Full page pop-ups that would sometimes interrupt your commenting experience have been disabled.

You can log in or sign up here and check it out.

A new feature by the community, for the community: The Feed​

Today we’re launching a brand new space for you to come together. The Feed is a running stream of posts and updates from you, the community, mixed in with links and updates from the team and our staff. Think of it as our community’s group text where you can easily grab your phone and share a link to a story, post a question or write your own post on the day’s news.

You can find it in two places:

• On the homepage, adjacent to the top stories. Community participation is core to who we are, so we want it right on the front page to share your stuff.
• A devoted homepage for The Feed where you can see the full stream of posts coming in from the community. You might want to bookmark that.

Log in or sign up here and you can start posting on The Feed and seeing fewer ads immediately.



Today’s launch is a big deal for our community, and it’s also a kickoff of broader efforts to build around the community we have here. Soon you’ll get alerts when someone replies to your comment or your post on The Feed, with more to come thereafter. We want to put the community in the driver’s seat, so let us know what you want in the comments below or in The Feed.

If you want to dig into more of this updated experience, head over to this post on sbnation.com from SB Nation’s Head of Product Ed Clinton, where he expands on the changes in our ads and design. Ed will be responding to questions in the comments. If you have any questions about how to log in to our new system, check out this article from last week.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...down-a-fresh-look-fewer-ads-and-a-new-feature

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Lamar Jackson’s message to team: ‘Let’s put the work in right now’

According to Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry, quarterback Lamar Jackson addressed the team on the first day of training camp with a message.

“He just emphasized let’s put the work in right now. Let’s not come out here BS-ing on all three phases. Let’s do what we need to do each and every day to get where we want to go,” Henry said on SiriusXM NFL Radio. “He’s been emphasizing that a lot from the first day that we got here. He talked to the team [and said], ‘It’s time. It’s time to do what we need to do.’ He’s just tired of coming up short.”

The Ravens have been on the cusp of a playing in the Super Bowl since 2019. They’ve made it to the Divisional round thrice. They played in the 2023 AFC Championship Game. But by their own errors and miscues, they’ve come up short. And Henry, who joined the team in 2024, shared they’re sick of it.

“We’re hungry,” Henry said. “We want to get there. [When] you’re coming up short, you get sick of it. So, it’s just like, yeah, let’s get it done.”

Jackson has shared over the course of his career he’s become a more vocal leader. He admitted it was the most difficult adjustment in the NFL in an interview with Kevin Hart back in June. His production proves it, being a two-time League MVP and three-time First-Team All-Pro.

“Just being a leader. I’m going to say being a leader,” Jackson said. “Because I really don’t — I’m not really outspoken. Like, being vocal with my guys like, ‘Oh, lets do this and that,’ or got a great motivational speech. I don’t have that. I just pretty much lead by example. I go out there. I’m going to work hard. I expect that out of you. And as I’ve been growing in the league I’m like, no. You got to talk to the guys. Coaches and stuff like to tell, ‘You got to talk to the guys.’ Now I talk to them one-on-one about certain things I’m seeing. I’ve got to voice it more.”

On Day 1, Jackson addressed his team and is looking to end the cycle of fighting their way to the playoffs only to falter. The only thing left is for the Ravens to deliver when it becomes a single-elimination tourney at season’s end.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...essage-to-team-lets-put-the-work-in-right-now

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

The Baltimore Ravens’ kicking competition is over…for now

Some unexpected news came out of The Castle Saturday morning just before the training camp practice kicked off. Undrafted rookie kicker John Hoyland has been waived.

The Ravens have waived UDFA rookie K John Hoyland as @mzenitz first reported. This means that rookie sixth-round pick Tyler Loop is the lone kicker in the building as the Ravens look to replace Justin Tucker.
It allows Loop to get all of the practice and preseason reps.

— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) August 2, 2025

John Hoyland wasn’t kicking badly by any means. The Baltimore Banner’s Jonas Shaffer had him as 28 for 32 attempts during camp through eight practices, as of July 31, just two days before he was cut. Head Coach John Harbaugh acknowledged the roster cut after practice Saturday, saying he thought Hoyland was kicking well enough to stay with the team. The cut was largely due to roster moves rather than anything else.

John Harbaugh says the Ravens cut UDFA kicker John Hoyland today due to roster needs.

Emphasized that rookie K Tyler Loop will still need to show out in the preseason games. pic.twitter.com/N5ePMY3MkH

— AJ Gersh (@AJGershTV) August 2, 2025

As of now, that leaves Tyler Loop as the only kicker on the roster, effectively ending the kicking competition that started during minicamp and OTAs. Harbaugh also talked about Loop’s performance so far, stating that he was kicking well enough to win the job (Shaffer had him as 40 for 44 on July 31st). Harbaugh also said that Loop still had to earn the job, and his performances in the coming preseason games would be a large part in determining that. Cutting Hoyland will give Loop all the reps in camp and games unless something changes, giving Loop all the opportunity to cement himself on the 53-man roster.

While it seems that the competition is over as of now, Harbaugh also said that cutting Hoyland this early wasn’t part of the plan and they’d like to keep the pressure on Loop. He also didn’t rule out bringing Hoyland back if a roster spot opened up. So if Loop starts to slip in camp or doesn’t perform well in the first preseason game, don’t be shocked if Hoyland or a veteran kicker comes in to push Loop for the spot.

The Ravens are hosting a stadium practice on Sunday, August 3rd, which will be Loop’s first chance to kick in the stadium, and with a crowd in the stands as well.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/2...re-ravens-kicking-competition-is-over-for-now

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

5 things we learned from Ravens’ preseason win over Colts

The Baltimore Ravens kicked the preseason off with a 24-16 victory over the Indianapolis Colts.

Even though the majority of starters did not suit up and play for the Ravens, there was still plenty to take away from the game.

Keaton Mitchell is back​

Mitchell has been the talk of training camp and showed exactly why in the preseason opener as he rushed for 68 yards and a touchdown on nine carries, including runs of 23 and 22 yards. The third-year running back’s lightning speed was on full display on his two long runs.

Keaton Mitchell getting shifty on his way to the end zone

INDvsBAL on @NFLNetwork
Watch live out-of-market preseason games on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/Sx1CV98Kgz

— NFL (@NFL) August 7, 2025

It was unknown if Mitchell would ever return to being the electrifying player that burst onto the scene as an undrafted rookie after a gruesome knee injury ended his first season prematurely. Although he returned to the field last season, it was clear that he was not yet fully back to form, either physically or mentally.

Adding a healthy and rejuvenated Mitchell to an already dominant rushing attack with Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry will surely have opposing defensive coordinators pulling their hair out each week.

The Ravens have a punt returner​

Baltimore entered this offseason with a clear need to upgrade at punt returner after cycling through multiple players unsuccessfully during last season. After one preseason game, the competition for the role may already be over.

It only took two returns for rookie sixth-round wide receiver LaJohntay Wester to take command of the job as he took a punt back 87 yards for a touchdown on his second attempt of the night.

.@la_wester TO THE HOUSE

Tune in on WBAL! pic.twitter.com/kNQd43xeDs

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 7, 2025

Wester will have two more preseason games to strengthen his case for the role once the regular season arrives. The rookie out of Colorado also led the team with 41 receiving yards on two catches.

Rasheen Ali is making his case​

Another player who impressed in the return game was second-year running back Rasheen Ali, returning a kickoff for 67 yards.

HUGE return for @fsosheen1

Tune in on WBAL! pic.twitter.com/TAsGxTPV6Y

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 8, 2025

Ali capped off the ensuing drive with a two-yard touchdown run after breaking off a 19-yard run the play before. There is no question who the top three running backs are for the Ravens at the moment with Henry, Justice Hill, and Mitchell, but Ali made a strong case against Indianapolis for Baltimore to consider carrying four backs on the 53-man roster.

Backup quarterback play needs to improve​

One negative note for the Ravens was the play of their backup quarterbacks against the Colts. Cooper Rush, whom the Ravens signed to a two-year, $6.2 million deal this offseason, was intercepted on his first pass attempt of the night.

Cooper Rush's first pass for the Ravens was intercepted

(via @NFL)pic.twitter.com/lTMOAeUt5b

— B/R Gridiron (@brgridiron) August 7, 2025

Rush finished his outing with two completions on four attempts for 16 yards and an interception. Second-year quarterback Devin Leary did not fare any better as he completed just three passes on 12 attempts for 43 yards and an interception. The Ravens will need more from their backup quarterbacks going forward, specifically Rush, after they decided to spend more money on him this offseason than they usually do for a backup at the position.

Rookie defenders shined​

All eyes were on rookie second-round outside linebacker Mike Green in his preseason debut, and he did not disappoint. While he did not record a sack against the Colts, he was consistently in the backfield, applying pressure on the quarterback throughout the night.

Rookie defensive tackle Aeneas Peebles was another player many were excited to see in the first preseason game. He finished with three tackles and a pass deflection on a third down. Undrafted inside linebacker Jay Higgins IV made his name known as well. After delivering a big hit two players earlier, Higgins intercepted quarterback Riley Leonard.

Undrafted rookie Jay Higgins IV comes up with a @Ravens INT!

INDvsBAL on @NFLNetwork
Watch live out-of-market preseason games on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/OoGuceKOgC

— NFL (@NFL) August 8, 2025

Higgins finished the night with three tackles and two pass deflections.

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...-learned-from-ravens-preseason-win-over-colts

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens Grades: Andrew Vorhees earns ‘elite’ grade; Ben Cleveland on the rise

Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) final grades have been released for the Baltimore Ravens’ victory over the Indianapolis Colts.

Here’s what stood out:

• At the top of the offensive rankings for both teams was left guard Andrew Vorhees, earning a 92.3 overall grade. In his 12 total snaps, Vorhees earned an 89.9 run block grade and 78.0 pass block grade. He was the only player on either team to earn above a 90.0.
• The second-best graded Ravens lineman was Ben Cleveland, earning a 83.4 overall grade. But while he earned the second-best run block grade, his pass block grade was one of the teams’ lowest with a 31.6. Cleveland’s 22 snaps were all taken at left guard.
• The highest-ranked Raven on defense was undrafted rookie linebacker Jay Higgins (88.1). He topped the grades with an 85.2 coverage grade and was the fourth-highest graded in pass rush (72.6).
• Mike Green, many of whom had their eyes on him saw his performance was one of the team’s best and the grades show it. Green was the No. 1 graded pass rusher for the Ravens (85.6) and No. 2 in the game, behind Colts’ JT Tuimoloua (90.4). Green finished with three pressures on the night, one of which earned Adisa Isaac a sack. Green rushed on 12 of the Ravens’ 14 true pass set opportunities. According to PFF, he won 36.4% of his snaps.
• When it comes to true pass set grades, Green was third, behind outside linebacker David Ojabo (79.3) and defensive end Aeneas Peebles (75.8). Ojabo closed out the night with one sack and two hurries while Peebles had a pressure.
• The Ravens’ inside backers all earned high marks for their coverage against the Colts. The top three defenders by coverage grade, in order: Higgins, Chandler Martin, Trenton Simpson. Though the trio allowed five receptions, the allowed a total of 27 yards.
• The depth cornerback competition is about as narrow as can be as T.J. Tampa and Jalyn Armour-Davis were graded within a tenth of a point. Combined, they were targeted 13 times, allowed four receptions for 59 yards and tallied three pass breakups.
• The lowest-graded offensive lineman by pass blocking was right guard Daniel Faalele (0.0). He allowed one sack and one hurry on five pass block snaps. He finished with the third-lowest overall grade on offense, ahead of Devin Leary (31.2) and Carson Vinson (36.2).

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/b...s-earns-elite-grade-ben-cleveland-on-the-rise

 

[Baltimore Ravens]

Ravens’ Rookie Report: Starks, Green flash; Loop responds

Baltimore Ravens football is officially back. After a 24-16 win over the Indianapolis Colts, lets check in on the 2025 draft class.

---

Safety Malaki Starks​

Overall, it was a quiet day for the first-round rookie, and that works just fine. Starks didn’t make it out of the first quarter before being subbed out, the shortest day for all the rookies. The penciled-in starter made his first tackle as a Raven, stonewalling opposing first-round pick Tyler Warren in the open to keep it to a third and medium. He also made a block that helped on the punt return touchdown.

First career preseason catch for Colts rookie TE Tyler Warren. He’s tackled by Ravens rookie Malaki Starks.#ForTheShoe | #RavensFlock

pic.twitter.com/RCN5qQ0UMn

— The Draft Network (@TheDraftNetwork) August 7, 2025

Edge Mike Green​

It wasn’t a loud day for Mike Green, who finished with just two total tackles. But those who paid attention noticed. Green had at least three clear wins in pass rushing. His first snap on third down in the first series got to the quarterback and helped force an incompletion. Later, he helped on Adisa Isaac’s sack, beating his tackle cleanly and getting to the quarterback first, forcing him to step up before his legs were taken out, leading to Isaac finishing the play. Then, later in the game, he had an explosive spin move that one but the ball was out on a quick pass. Either way, the rookie lived up to the pass rush hype in his first game action. This guy could change the pass rush in the postseason, and I can’t wait.

Mike Green off the left side pic.twitter.com/uKELp32DCW

— Kurt Benkert (@KurtBenkert) August 7, 2025

Linebacker Teddye Buchanan​

A quiet night for Buchanan, who finished with just one tackle. It was a strong run stop, but overall, Buchanan’s performance wasn’t one to write home about. Nothing went tremendously wrong, but it showed that Trenton Simpson firmly has his hand on the wheel for the starting spot next to Roquan Smith, and the early hype and curiosity if Buchanan could push for snaps early might have been rushed. The impressive part of the night for Buchanan was that he wore the green dot for the Ravens tonight, showing the trust and level of understanding he has for the playbook already. Inside linebacker is one of the hardest transitions from college to the NFL level, so it’s ok to take these encouraging signs from Buchanan while not expecting much in the meantime.

Trenton Simpson and David Ojabo shouted out Teddye Buchanan's communication skills.

The rookie was wearing the green dot, and he was proud of himself for how well he relayed the calls. There weren't as many glaring communication errors as there were at joint practices.

— Giana Han (@giana_jade) August 8, 2025

Left Tackle Carson Vinson​

Offensive line play can be hard to judge in the moment without film to back it up. But the important thing is Vinson didn’t draw attention and flash for the wrong reasons. He also occasionally displayed the special athleticism that comes with his impressive size. Vinson isn’t expected to contribute anytime soon to this team and will likely be a game-day inactive all year, effectively redshirting. So in the meantime, these reps are good for development. Overall, an even keel day for the developmental tackle.

Cornerback Bilhal Kone​

Kone was having a strong day and finished with a tackle, but disaster struck early and finished Kone’s day and season. Kone injured his knee on a strong coverage play where he forced an incompletion and left on the medical cart with an air cast on. Head coach John Harbaugh delivered the news post-game that Kone indeed had a tear in his knee and his season was finished. Unfortunately for the prototype corner, who was having a strong camp. Here’s to a full recovery and seeing him back next season.

Kicker Tyler Loop​

Tyler Loop had all the advantage in the world; his only competition cut early due to roster needs. All he needed was a strong preseason opener to boost him further, and he did just that. Loop was perfect on all his extra points to start his career, quickly earning “LOOOOOOOP” cheers after just the first one. He missed from 46 yards, pushing the attempt wide left as most of his misses in camp have been. He quickly bounced back, nailing one from 52 yards, center cut that would have had leg to go from 65 yards. Harbaugh stated after the game that Loop stubbed his toe on the miss, an easily fixable issue that he’s not worried about, and was happy with Loop’s performance. I expect to hear long Loop chants for a long time in Baltimore.

Tyler Loop from 52pic.twitter.com/flaahnNOw9

— Pick 6 Pack (@Pick6PackFB) August 8, 2025

Wide Receiver LaJohntay Wester​

By far the loudest performance tonight, the rumblings that the Ravens were trying to hide Wester in camp because of how good he is were not just smoke. Wester opened up with a 17-yard return that flashed his electricty, making multiple guys miss after seemingly being surrounded. He followed up that magic performance with his best trick of the night, making at least five Colts miss and going 87 yards to the house, practically winning the punt returner job in two plays. He then proceeded to be the only player to catch multiple passes tonight during an abysmal passing night for the backup quarterbacks, including snagging a 30-yard back shoulder go ball while falling backwards. It might be too early to say the Ravens found something here, but I think the Ravens found something here.

.@la_wester TO THE HOUSE

Tune in on WBAL! pic.twitter.com/kNQd43xeDs

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 7, 2025

Defensive tackle Aeneas Peebles​

Aeneas Peebles quickly became a fan favorite after the draft for his energy and some social media antics. He followed up on the field with three tackles and an energetic third-down swat at the line to get the defense off the field. It’s unclear how much run Peebles will get this season as a pass rush specialist with a good group of pass rushers in front of him, but it is clear that he will make the most of the snaps he gets and fans should get to know him quickly.

.@Ae9eas fired up!! pic.twitter.com/6xaUUUp28C

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 8, 2025

UDFA of the week: LB Jay Higgins IV​

On a day when none of the ’established’ inside linebackers flashed, Higgins made the most of his moments and was the best performer of the position. Three tackles, including a third-down stop, a pass swat on fourth down to force a turnover on downs, and an interception, Higgins showed why he was a priority UDFA and a favorite coming into training camp. I don’t know if there is a spot for him to steal between Roquan Smith, Trenton Simpson, Teddye Buchanan, and Jake Hummel, but he’s at least creating a buzz about it.

INT by @_jhigg!!!

Tune in: WBAL pic.twitter.com/GPuLtyCHdh

— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 8, 2025

Source: https://www.baltimorebeatdown.com/baltimore-ravens-injuries/70946/rookie-report-preseason-week-1