Ravens Training Camp Notebook: Poor Field Position A Point Of Emphasis

The Baltimore Ravens practiced offensive plays near their own end zone during training camp on July 26th, focusing on scenarios where the team is backed up close to their goal line. Results were mixed, with quarterback Lamar Jackson experiencing some early struggles. He overthrew Mark Andrews on second-and-9 from the 2-yard line and missed Rashod Bateman on third-and-8 from the 3-yard line. Jackson also had to call a timeout due to formation confusion on second-and-7 from the 4-yard line.

Jackson did connect on several positive plays, including a roughly 20-yard pass to Bateman on first-and-10 from the 3-yard line. Backup receiver Anthony Miller also made a notable elevated catch across the middle. The defense recorded several wins during these periods: Nnamdi Madubuike batted a Jackson pass that fell incomplete in the end zone, and later, Cooper Rush had a pass tipped by Sanoussi Kane and intercepted by Jalyn Armour-Davis, who returned it to the 5-yard line.

During other practice periods not near the end zone, Jackson hit Devontez Walker for a long gain down the middle against Nate Wiggins. Walker, whose role remains unclear behind established receivers, continued his consistent spring/summer performance, later making a sideline catch against Jaire Alexander in 1-on-1 drills. Safety Beau Brade made a defensive highlight by stripping the ball from tight end Charlie Kolar after Jackson improvised a throw.

Presnap penalties continued to plague the offense during Saturday's workout, with the team flagged at least four or five times daily despite Head Coach John Harbaugh emphasizing their elimination this summer. An unusual false start even occurred during a 7-on-7 period without offensive linemen nearby. Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken stated the Ravens are committed to mastering cadence variability and aim to be elite in this area, viewing this time as crucial for working out kinks.

In injury news, wide receiver Keith Kirkwood missed his second consecutive practice (undisclosed injury). Rookie cornerback Bilhal Kone left practice early with a shoulder/upper body injury. Absences also included the three players already on PUP/NFI lists: Ar’Darius Washington (Achilles), Emery Jones (shoulder), and Jake Hummel (hand).