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Ravens-Vikings preseason game: One player to watch at every position
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- Ravens-Vikings preseason game: One player to watch at every position
The Baltimore Ravens completed two demanding joint practices against the Minnesota Vikings , giving many established starters and veterans their most important work of the week. Saturday's preseason game will shift the attention toward Baltimore's younger players and reserves. The Ravens are evaluating several competitions after opening the preseason with a 24-7 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles .
Here is one Raven to watch from every position group against Minnesota.
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Quarterback: Joe Fagnano
Fagnano completed 22 of 28 passes for 224 yards, one touchdown and one interception against Philadelphia. The undrafted rookie operated the offense efficiently and distributed the football to several young targets. With Tyler Huntley established behind Lamar Jackson , Fagnano is competing for a roster spot and an opportunity to develop into Jackson's backup of the future. Another composed performance would strengthen his case before the Ravens make their final roster decisions.
Running back: Adam Randall
Randall rushed 12 times for 46 yards and a touchdown against Philadelphia. The converted wide receiver is competing for the third running back role behind Derrick Henry and Justice Hill . His receiving ability is intriguing, but pass protection and special teams could ultimately determine his early role.
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Wide receiver: Elijah Sarratt
Sarratt led Baltimore with six receptions and 66 yards in his preseason debut. He consistently created separation but lost a fumble following one catch. The fourth-round rookie can strengthen his case for regular-season snaps by pairing another productive receiving performance with improved ball security.
Tight end: Matt Hibner
Hibner caught five passes for 61 yards against the Eagles and also contributed on special teams. The rookie's athleticism gives Baltimore a potential receiving threat behind Mark Andrews and Durham Smythe . Another productive outing would help Hibner earn a place in the weekly offensive rotation.
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Offensive line: Jovaughn Gwyn
Danny Pinter's knee injury increased the importance of Baltimore's center competition. Gwyn and veteran Ethan Pocic are the leading candidates to replace Pinter. Gwyn played well in the opener and received first-team practice opportunities in Minnesota.
Defensive line: Broderick Washington Jr.
Washington started the preseason opener alongside John Jenkins. Baltimore has considerable depth along the defensive front, making every evaluation important for players seeking snaps in a rotation that will include Calais Campbell 's retirement.
Edge Rusher: Adisa Isaac
Injuries disrupted Isaac's first two NFL seasons, but he returned from the physically unable to perform list in late July. The third-year edge defender needs game repetitions after missing significant developmental time. His ability to pressure the quarterback, set the edge and contribute on special teams will be monitored.
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Inside linebacker: Carl Jones Jr.
Jones is listed behind Roquan Smith and Jay Higgins IV at middle linebacker. His clearest path to a game-day role may come through special teams. Secure tackling and proper positioning against Minnesota's reserve offense would strengthen his case for one of the final linebacker spots.
Cornerback: Chandler Rivers
Rivers recorded two tackles and a pass breakup in his debut before producing more competitive work during the joint practices with Minnesota . Baltimore values his ability to play inside and match receivers in space. Saturday presents another test of his coverage discipline and tackling.
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Safety: Keondre Jackson
Jackson started the opener and has continued receiving important special-teams opportunities. The second-year safety is playing behind Jaylinn Hawkins on the current depth chart. His physicality is evident, but Baltimore will also evaluate his communication, pursuit angles and coverage awareness.
Specialist: Tyler Loop
Loop missed a 49-yard attempt before converting from 42 yards against Philadelphia. He responded by making all six of his attempts during Thursday's practice, including one from approximately 53 yards. The Ravens need their second-year kicker to transfer that practice consistency to the game.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens-Vikings preseason game: One player to watch at every position
