OWINGS MILLS, MD – In the sweltering August heat of the 2026 preseason, the Baltimore Ravens and Washington Commanders engaged in a spirited joint practice that offered a final glimpse into roster battles ahead of the regular season. As the NFL calendar turns toward the September opener, the Ravens' wide receiver corps faced a daunting test against a physical Washington secondary, and the results were a mixed bag that left coaches with plenty to evaluate. Reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, the session highlighted both emerging playmakers and areas of concern for the two-time MVP under center.
Early Struggles in One-on-Ones
The afternoon began with a series of one-on-one red zone drills from the five-yard line, where the Commanders' cornerbacks set a tone of physicality that immediately challenged Baltimore's young pass-catchers. Rookies Ja'Kobi Lane and Elijah Sarratt both failed to find the end zone, with Lane specifically struggling against press coverage at the line of scrimmage, his release footwork lacking the crispness needed to separate. It was a learning moment for the rookie, who has flashed potential throughout camp but now understands the physical demands of NFL cornerbacks. Rashod Bateman, however, emerged as the clear standout, scoring three touchdowns on clean route-running wins that left defenders trailing. His performance underscored his value as a reliable target, especially with Zay Flowers sidelined.
Quarterback Precision in 7-on-7
Transitioning to 7-on-7 work from the ten-yard line, Lamar Jackson displayed his trademark accuracy after an initial misfire. On the first play, he overshot an open Justice Hill on a wheel route, but he quickly rebounded, completing his next five passes for touchdowns. Tight end Mark Andrews showcased his adaptability, catching a short pass short of the goal line but adjusting on a similar concept for a score. Bateman continued his dominance with an easy seven-yard in route, while Lane redeemed himself with an extended catch in a tight window. Rookie tight end Josh Cuevas also impressed, adjusting to a ball thrown slightly behind him for a sliding grab. The sequence demonstrated Jackson's ability to distribute the ball to multiple weapons, a positive sign for the regular season.
Red Zone Woes in 11-on-11
When the full team took the field for 11-on-11 drills, the Ravens' offense struggled to punch it in during red zone periods. In the first, the run game was effective, with Derrick Henry finding open holes and the Commanders' defense reluctant to engage him physically. Jackson connected with Justice Hill across the middle for a touchdown, but the second period proved more problematic. The offensive line allowed pressure on three consecutive plays, forcing Jackson into a scramble and two checkdowns. On his final throw of the day, the two-time MVP made an uncharacteristic mistake, lofting an easy interception to Commanders cornerback Mike Sainristil. Jackson attempted to throw behind the defense for LaJohntay Wester, but he appeared trigger-happy, missing an open Bateman on the right side. It was a teachable moment, as Jackson acknowledged post-practice that he needs to trust his progressions under duress.
Big Plays and Injury Updates
Between red zone sessions, full-field 11-on-11 work offered a spark. Bateman, serving as the de facto WR1, found soft spots in zone coverage and racked up yards after the catch on screens. Second-year wideout Devontez Walker delivered the longest play of the day, catching a 20-yard crosser, turning the corner, and outrunning the Washington secondary for a 60-yard touchdown. His speed and vision were a highlight, reinforcing his case for a roster spot. After practice, head coach Jesse Minter confirmed that the absences of Flowers, second-round outside linebacker Zion Young, and second-year cornerback Bilhal Kone were due to minor, short-term injuries. The team remains cautious but optimistic about their availability for the season opener.
Looking Ahead to the Preseason Finale
The Ravens will face the Commanders again on Friday night at M&T Bank Stadium in the preseason finale, with kickoff set for 6 p.m. ET. As highlighted on Vulius, this game will be crucial in determining the starting center competition between Jovaughn Gwyn and Ethan Pocic, as well as finalizing the 53-man roster by Sunday. The joint practice provided invaluable reps, but the real decisions loom. For a team with Super Bowl aspirations, these final evaluations could shape the season's trajectory. Stay tuned to Vulius for comprehensive coverage as the Ravens finalize their roster and prepare for the grind of the 2026 campaign.
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