OWINGS MILLS — The Ravens have more than a week of practice before they break training camp, and they travel to Green Bay next week for a joint practice and final preseason game.
Here are the players who stood out during the past four weeks of training camp and heading into the second preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons on Saturday.
Best Player: Tight end Isaiah Likely
Likely has been one of the most dominant players in camp. He has made several acrobatic catches and created matchup problems throughout the practices. Look for Likely to play a major role in the offense this season when offensive coordinator Todd Monken implements two tight-end sets with four-time Pro Bowler Mark Andrews. Honorable Mention: Inside linebacker Trenton Simpson
Hardest Worker: Running back Derrick Henry
The four-time Pro Bowler has flashed his skills and power throughout the offseason. One of the first things coaches notice about Henry is his work ethic. He attacks every drill with the intensity of a rookie trying to make the team. Ravens coach John Harbaugh appreciates that type of work ethic from a star player. Henry is poised to have a big season as the team’s featured running back. Honorable Mention: Outside linebacker Joe Evans
Best Play: Quarterback Lamar Jackson to wide receiver Rashod Bateman
The Ravens hope Bateman and Jackson can be more in sync this season. On August 5th, Bateman made a sensational catch when he jumped over two defenders in the corner of the end zone for a 15-yard touchdown reception from Jackson. Bateman was shaken up on the play but it showed his determination to win the ball. It also instilled more confidence in Jackson to get him more involved in the offense. Honorable Mention: Justin Tucker’s 68-yard field goal.
Biggest Surprise: Safety Ar’Darius Washington
There was some speculation the fourth-year defensive back could be on the bubble to make the final roster. However, there is little doubt that Washington will make the final roster. Washington made a couple of interceptions by reading the quarterback’s eyes. He also has broken up several passes and has been aggressive throughout camp. The key for Washington is to stay healthy. Honorable Mention: Nose tackle Travis Jones
Most Popular: Quarterback Lamar Jackson
Jackson routinely received the biggest ovation from fans. The crowd was ecstatic when he stayed around for autographs after practice. Jackson has been generous with his time and spent a lot of time meeting and greeting the throng of fans throughout training camp. Honorable Mention: Safety Kyle Hamilton
Best Battle: Offensive Line
The Ravens are still trying to figure out who will start on the offensive line. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley and center Tyler Linderbaum are the only returning starters, which means the Ravens have to fill both guard positions and right tackle. Andrew Vorhees appears to be the front-runner at left guard. Daniel Faalele, Ben Cleveland, and Sala Aumavae-Laulu are competing to be the starter at right guard. Pat Mekari and rookie Roger Rosengarten are the top candidates to become the starter at right tackle. Linderbaum is dealing with a soft tissue injury and has been sidelined. Cleveland has taken the snaps at center and Harbaugh has been pleased with the performance. Honorable Mention: Running backs Rasheen Ali vs. Owen Wright
Breakout Player: Cornerback Nate Wiggins
The rookie first-round pick has been sensational throughout training camp with his speed and coverage skills. Wiggins is emerging as a key playmaker in the secondary. The Eagles targeted him three times on the opening drive and Wiggins knocked down all three pass attempts in the first preseason game. Wiggins injured his shoulder in the game but was back at practice Thursday. Honorable Mention: Outside linebacker Odafe Oweh
