As the preseason continues for the Ravens, we draw nearer to the NFL’s deadline for teams to reduce their roster to 53 players. With the deadline approaching, which players need to shine most for Baltimore in game two?
After a strong first preseason game, the Baltimore Ravens are currently 1-0. There is a lot on the line for players hoping to make the team. The NFL’s deadline to reduce rosters to 85 passed on Tuesday. The deadline for teams to reduce their roster to 53 players is August 30th. With the second preseason game on Sunday, which players need to stand out most in order to make the team’s final roster?
Which Ravens Players Need To Have A Big Game Two To Last?
Shemar Bridges, Wide Receiver, Baltimore Ravens
The undrafted rookie out of Fort State Valley had a strong showing during the first preseason game. The big-bodied wide receiver Bridges caught a 14-yard touchdown and caught a total of four passes total for 62-yards. Other than Mark Andrews, the Ravens only have one other receiver who can be targeted in the end zone would be Bridges. He has a strong chance of making the team and even becoming a playmaker as he made two replay-worthy catches.
Makai Polk, Wide Receiver, Baltimore Ravens
Another undrafted rookie, Polk also had a strong first preseason game by catching a total of six passes for 42-yards. The Mississippi product showed his ability to become open downfield for quarterback Tyler Huntley.
Tony Jefferson, Strong Safety, Baltimore Ravens
The veteran strong safety resigned with the Ravens after playing last year for the first time since tearing his ACL in 2019. Also undrafted, Jefferson knows no job is secure regardless of history. With a crowded room of safeties, he needs to have a strong showing in the next two games. Jefferson may have a chance with special teams since Anthony Levine is now retired.
Steven Means, Outside Linebacker, Baltimore Ravens
With Tyus Bowser still on the PUP list and David Ojabo still rehabbing, Means finished the first preseason game with a sack and three tackles. The veteran OLB has the opportunity for more game time since Houston will not be in the game. This will give Raven fans more insight into whether the team needs more help at OLB with the current players on the roster. So far, Means has shown that he is more than capable of getting to the quarterback.
Ben Powers, Guard, Baltimore Ravens
This one is not so much about not making the team, but more about having a starting job. Powers has been playing right guard during his time with the Baltimore Ravens and needs to shine in the second game. The 2019 fourth-round pick has the opportunity to win the starting job from Tyre Philips.
Kyle Hamilton, Safety, Baltimore Ravens
A lot of pressure is riding on the first-round pick from this year’s draft. Hamilton did show his awareness during the first preseason with a fumble recovery. Hamilton also missed Malik Willis on a 7-yard touchdown run during the first preseason game, so having more playing time will give him the opportunity to learn and develop. Fans are eager to see his playmaking ability and ball-hawking skills during the second preseason game.
Isiah Likely, Tight End, Baltimore Ravens
Likely showed his playmaking abilities with the impressive leaping catch in the second quarter during the first preseason game. He caught four catches for 44 yards during the game and showed his potential to be a likely target. One area that the tight end needs to work on is his blocking abilities. He was called for two holding penalties during the first game. Hopefully during the second preseason game, Likely can improve with his blocking abilities.
