{
  "id": 2595956,
  "title": "Ravens-Vikings preseason game: One player to watch at every position",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/22/ravens-vikings-preseason-game-one-player-to-watch-at-every-position",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-22T14:56:53.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/ravens-vikings-preseason-game-one-145653031.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Joe Fagnano, the undrafted rookie quarterback, completed 22 of 28 passes for 224 yards, one touchdown and one interception during Baltimore's training sessions against Minnesota. The young signal-caller demonstrated efficiency and accuracy, distributing the football to emerging targets. With Tyler Huntley settled behind Lamar Jackson, Fagnano is vying for a roster spot and a chance to develop into Jackson's potential backup. A solid performance would bolster his case before the Ravens finalize their roster selections.\n\nAdam Randall, the converted wide receiver, rushed for 46 yards and a touchdown while catching six passes for 66 yards during the Philadelphia preseason game. The versatile player is competing for the third running back role alongside Derrick Henry and Justice Hill. Randall's receiving skills are noteworthy, but his success may rely on improved pass protection and special teams contributions.\n\nElijah Sarratt, the fourth-round wide receiver, led Baltimore with six receptions and 66 yards in his preseason debut. His ability to create separation was evident, but a fumble on one catch raised concerns. To secure a starting role, Sarratt must improve ball security and deliver another productive performance combined with a solid game.\n\nMatt Hibner, the rookie tight end, contributed with five receptions for 61 yards in the Philadelphia outing. His athleticism provides the Ravens with an additional receiving option behind Mark Andrews and Durham Smythe. A consistent and productive outing would help Hibner secure a spot in the weekly offensive rotation.\n\nJovaughn Gwyn, the center, faced increased competition for the position due to Danny Pinter's knee injury. Gwyn and veteran Ethan Pocic are the main contenders to replace Pinter. Gwyn excelled in the opener and received first-team practice reps in Minnesota. A strong performance would bolster his position for the opening game.\n\nBroderick Washington Jr., the defensive tackle, started the preseason opener alongside John Jenkins. Baltimore boasts a deep defensive line, making every evaluation crucial for players vying for a starting role. Washington's ability to pressure the quarterback, maintain edge positioning, and contribute on special teams will be closely monitored.\n\nAdisa Isaac, the edge rusher, returned from the physically unable to perform list in late July after struggling with injuries in his first two NFL seasons. The third-year defender needs additional game repetitions after missing significant development time. His pressure on the quarterback, set-edge skills, and special teams contributions will be closely examined during Saturday's game.\n\nCarl Jones Jr., the inside linebacker, is behind Roquan Smith and Jay Higgins IV in the depth chart. His path to a game-day role may come through special teams contributions. Strong tackling and positioning against Minnesota's reserve offense could strengthen his case for a final linebacker spot.\n\nChandler Rivers, the cornerback, recorded two tackles and a pass breakup in his preseason debut before producing more competitive work in the joint practices with Minnesota. Baltimore values his versatility to play inside and match receivers in space. Saturday's game will provide another opportunity to test his coverage discipline and tackling ability.\n\nKeondre Jackson, the safety, started the opener and continues to receive vital special teams opportunities. The second-year safety plays behind Jaylinn Hawkins in the current depth chart. Baltimore will evaluate his physicality, communication, pursuit angles, and coverage awareness during Saturday's preseason game.\n\nTyler Loop, the specialist, missed a 49-yard field goal attempt but converted from 42 yards during Thursday's practice. He followed up with six successful attempts, including one from approximately 53 yards, showcasing his consistency. Loop's practice performance suggests a need for continued sharp shooting in the upcoming preseason game.",
  "summary": "Eleven Ravens face important evaluations at each position in Saturday's preseason game in Minnesota",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}