Aaron Judge hit his first home run in nearly four months … and it highlighted a night in which the New York Yankees secured a postseason berth.
Judge, who missed three months of the 2026 season with a fractured rib, hit a three-run home run off of Minnesota Twins left-hander A.J. Minter in the eighth inning of an 8-3 win on Monday, Sept. 14. It was Judge's first round-tripper since May 24 against the Tampa Bay Rays. Judge now has 18 home runs in 65 games played this season.
Since his return to the Yankees' lineup on Sept. 8, Judge had gone 3-for-17 in five games played before clobbering a cutter from Minter into the third deck at Target Field in Minneapolis on Monday.
The Yankees entered Monday needing a win over the Twins or loss by the Toronto Blue Jays against the Detroit Tigers to clinch at least a wild card berth. Detroit closed out a 6-5 win moments before the Yankees defeated the Twins, making the Yankees the second American League team to secure a playoff spot.
Judge said the injury traced back to a diving play in Houston in late April. He played through rib and shoulder discomfort for about a month before the team finally shut him down May 31. He was hitting .248 through 59 games at the time – a career worst – with 17 home runs and 38 RBIs.

#minter #sept

Ravens news: Jesse Minter promises Rashod Bateman breakout is coming appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Baltimore Ravens walked out of Week 1 with a dominant 41-23 win over the Indianapolis Colts. Derrick Henry continued his Hall of Fame case, Lamar Jackson looked like his former MVP self, and Zay Flowers played like a top-level wide receiver in the NFL. But what about Rashod Bateman? Well, it appears head coach Jesse Minter plans to get him more involved as the season rolls along.
While talking with media members on Monday, the 43-year-old head coach claimed he liked everything he saw from Bateman in Week 1, despite the former first-round pick not hauling in a single reception, according to Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic. Minter ended his statement suggesting that the Ravens will find a way to get Bateman more targets moving forward.
"I give Bate a lot of credit," Minter said. "He played the game the right way. He ran good routes. I'm excited about how he played. I think there's big days ahead for Bate."
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#minter #jesse #week

The Indianapolis Colts open the regular season at home against the Baltimore Ravens.
To help us preview this matchup, Glenn Erby, the managing editor of Ravens Wire, answered a handful of our questions to provide some insights into this Baltimore team.
Ravens Wire: Minter has been organized, direct, and consistent since taking over. He brings energy without manufacturing it, and players have responded to his detailed but collaborative approach. He has also allowed his coordinators to establish their identities while remaining heavily involved with the defense. The biggest takeaway is that he appears comfortable leading the entire operation rather than simply functioning as a defensive-minded head coach. The regular season will present different challenges, but the transition from John Harbaugh has been smoother than many expected.
Ravens Wire: Baltimore's defensive front should be its biggest strength. The Ravens added Trey Hendrickson to a group that could regain Nnamdi Madubuike while also featuring Calais Campbell, Travis Jones, and second-round pick Zion Young. Roquan Smith and Kyle Hamilton give the defense elite talent behind that front. If Madubuike remains healthy, Baltimore should be able to stop the run without sacrificing its ability to pressure quarterbacks.
Ravens Wire: The interior offensive line is the primary concern. Baltimore will start Jovaughn Gwyn at center and rookie first-round pick Vega Ioane at right guard. Gwyn has never started an NFL game, while Ioane will make his regular-season debut against DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart. The Ravens are also installing Declan Doyle's offense, so communication and protection errors could occur early. Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry can cover plenty of weaknesses, but Indianapolis has the personnel to test that inexperienced interior.

#Ravens

NFL pundit Skip Bayless believes the Baltimore Ravens' biggest concern may not be Lamar Jackson's talent, but whether the quarterback will fully buy into a dramatically younger coaching staff.
Baltimore opens 2026 with Jesse Minter in his first season as an NFL head coach and Declan Doyle taking over the offense. Doyle is the league's youngest offensive coordinator and will call plays for the first time after serving as Chicago's coordinator under Ben Johnson last season.
During a segment on the "Gridiron" podcast with Aqib Talib on Friday, Bayless said Jackson needs a significant season for the sake of his résumé, but the ****** yst quickly turned his concern toward the coaching staff around the Ravens quarterback.
"If Jesse Minter were the new defensive coordinator in Baltimore, I'd be with you," Bayless said. "But he's the new head coach. So you have a baby head coach trying to figure out how to run the whole show as well as the defense."
Bayless's stronger warning, however, involved Doyle.

#bayless #season

Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride will play with a refined passion in 2026. With the 2025 season in his rearview mirror and the Los Angeles Chargers ahead, McBride is hoping that his passion and premier pass-catching can spark the beginning of a new chapter for the franchise.
The Chargers lost defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, who moved on to a head coaching position with the Baltimore Ravens. Still, Chargers safety Derwin James Jr. is on the roster and his skillset poses a significant opposition for McBride. Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur still has plans on making McBride the focus of the team offense and it'll come down to pure will to determine whether or not McBride can muscle up.
The Cardinals seem to have a competent offensive personnel group at the skills positions but time will tell how their offensive line fares in 2026. Play-action and the quick passing game are both strategies where LaFleur and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett are likely to call on McBride's jersey number. McBride is quick and physical, plus his route running makes him a mismatch for most opposing linebackers and safeties.
Ultimately, if the Cardinals are to stand a chance on Sunday, they will rely on their passing attack to propel the offense and that'll mean that McBride must be exceptionally magnificent. The Chargers allowed just 19.8 points per game in 2025, but without the mastermind of Minter, McBride might locate a few breaches that can be exploited.
Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple Podcasts.

#play #passion #coordinator

The Baltimore Ravens will begin the Jesse Minter era against an Indianapolis Colts team that scored 466 points and fielded a top-10 offense last season.
Here are five legitimate concerns entering Sunday's opener.
Taylor rushed for 1,585 yards and 18 touchdowns. Baltimore ranked 10th against the run, but its rebuilt defensive front must prove it can contain one of the league's most explosive backs.
Jovaughn Gwyn is scheduled to start at center, with rookie Vega Ioane at right guard. Their first **** ignment comes against DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart.
Jones completed 68% of his passes, averaged 8.1 yards per attempt, and produced a 100.2 passer rating. Before his injury, he operated Shane Steichen's offense with timing and confidence.

#colts #here

During the first 30 years of the Baltimore Ravens' story, they and the Indianapolis Colts have met 18 times. That includes three postseason matchups, but Sunday's opener carries a different feel. The Ravens are entering a new era under head coach Jesse Minter, while the Colts hope to prove they can contend in the AFC after last season's disappointing finish.
Most of the attention this week has focused on Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, Jonathan Taylor, Baltimore's revamped coaching staff, and what to expect on offense and defense. All of that will certainly influence the outcome, but several less-discussed storylines could play an equally important role. Here are five worth monitoring in Week 1.
Fair or unfair, Rashod Bateman enters the season under a microscope. The veteran receiver is attempting to move forward after a difficult 2025 campaign and an offseason that generated headlines for reasons unrelated to football.
A strong opener would immediately help shift the conversation back toward his on-field value. A quiet performance, however, could reignite many of the same questions that followed him throughout the offseason. One game should not define a season, but Week 1 often shapes perception. Bateman doesn't need a 100-yard performance to make an impact. He needs to remind everyone why the Ravens still believe in him.
Ja'Kobi Lane spent much of the summer generating excitement, while Vega Ioane appears poised to play a meaningful role immediately. They are not the only rookies worth watching. Pass rusher Zion Young could find himself in situations where a single splash play changes the trajectory of his debut.

#worth

The Baltimore Ravens are preparing for an Indianapolis Colts roster that underwent meaningful changes on both sides of the ball. Indianapolis retained Daniel Jones as its starting quarterback and added veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen to a passing game featuring Alec Pierce, Josh Downs, and Tyler Warren. Allen gives Jones an experienced route runner who can create separation on third down and in the red zone. The Colts also reshaped portions of their offensive line. Tanor Bortolini is listed as the starting center, with Matt Goncalves at right guard and Jalen Travis at right tackle. Quenton Nelson and Bernhard Raimann provide continuity on the left side, but Baltimore can test the newer combinations with its rebuilt defensive front.
Indianapolis made its most significant defensive investment in the secondary. Sauce Gardner joins Charvarius Ward at cornerback, giving the Colts two accomplished players capable of challenging Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Baltimore's other receivers. Cam Bynum and rookie A.J. Haulcy are listed as the starting safeties.
Arden Key was added to a defensive line that already included DeForest Buckner, Grover Stewart and Laiatu Latu. That group should present an immediate test for a Ravens offensive line breaking in new starters at center and right guard.
The Colts' roster is deeper and more experienced in several critical areas. Baltimore still has advantages with Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry, but Indianapolis possesses enough talent to make Jesse Minter's debut uncomfortable if the Ravens fail to establish control early.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: How the Indianapolis Colts changed during the 2026 offseason

#colts #defensive

The Baltimore Ravens have undergone significant changes entering the 2026 season, but elite talent, depth, and versatility remain central to their pursuit of a championship. Baltimore's veteran core will help Jesse Minter navigate his first season as a head coach. Some of those players, however, are also approaching crossroads because of age, injuries, salary considerations, or increased competition.
With the regular season approaching, here are five Ravens veterans entering pivotal seasons, along with one bonus candidate.
Bateman has repeatedly shown flashes of becoming a dependable playmaker, but injuries and inconsistent opportunities have prevented him from establishing himself as one of the NFL's most productive receivers.
The talent has never been the primary question. Bateman can create separation, stretch the field, and provide Lamar Jackson with a reliable target outside the numbers. What Baltimore needs now is consistent availability and production all season. Zay Flowers is firmly established as Jackson's leading receiver, while rookie Ja'Kobi Lane brings size and considerable upside to the position. Bateman must carve out a defined role within Declan Doyle's offense and capitalize on his opportunities. A productive season would strengthen Bateman's place within Baltimore's long-term plans. Another uneven campaign could force the Ravens to reevaluate the position.
Stanley remains one of the NFL's best left tackles when healthy, but age makes every season more significant.

#Ravens

Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter understands the multifaceted dynamics involved in putting together the perfect football team. More impressively, Minter has frequently given accolades to his colleagues in press conferences, a show of his selfless nature and strong belief in interdependence.
As a former defensive coordinator, Minter is well aware that his eyes can't be everywhere on every play. This is why he deployed Anthony Weaver to designate the front seven of his defense in his current role. Minter will call the defensive plays, offensive coordinator DeClan Doyle will call the offensive plays, and quarterback Lamar Jackson will have the power to veto via audible. Minter and his staff seem to have honed in on a recurring design. Nickel and 3-4 personnel groups will appear on defense, while 11-, 12-, and 13-personnel groups will be seen heavily on offense.
Furthermore, the Ravens have a clearly defined infrastructure. This willingness to commit to both an offensive and defensive identity makes Minter's leadership role even easier. In 2026, Minter won't need a bunch of heavy, jargon- and aura-based speeches. Instead, he's focused on the product he puts on the field and not upholding some vain persona.
Ultimately, Minter trusts his staff, and his deferential disposition has allowed the team to foster a new identity. From media clips provided by the team administration to the preseason execution seen on broadcast, it's very clear that the 2026 Ravens will rely heavily on collaboration and cohesiveness to right their wrongs from a season ago.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens' Jesse Minter aims to lead with discipline, not to micromanage

#team #defensive #jesse #defense

The Ravens welcomed wide receiver Zay Flowers back to the practice field on Thursday.
Flowers was out of practice for the last two weeks with an undisclosed injury and head coach Jesse Minter said that the team's focus was on making sure he's ready for Week 1 of the regular season. The Ravens play a little over a week from now and Flowers's presence at practice is a good sign that he'll be ready to go against the Colts.
Flowers also missed time with a quad contusion earlier in August and he signed a four-year extension to kick off the month.
The Ravens say wideout Devontez Walker was the only player out of practice on Thursday.

#thursday #jesse #colts

Making 32 bets before the season might feel like a lot, but when you look at how many markets are available to wager on — team futures, win totals, award markets, player props, "Game of the Year" betting, etc., it's really not all that excessive. Of course, if you had just blindly bet one unit on each of all 32 of our plays from last year's article, you'd have been up 7.26 units, and you're probably thrilled to see we're back with this article again.
Join or create a Yahoo Fantasy Football league for the 2026 NFL season
We'll start in the AFC, with one bet for each team in the NFL this season.
The best-case scenario for Baltimore is that Jesse Minter and a bolstered defensive front works well enough that the majority of Ravens games are in control in the fourth quarter — and when they are, Derrick Henry can salt them away without Lamar Jackson needing to scramble around.
Optimism is high for Jackson's statistics because he comes into the season healthy, but like last year, he may not stay that way. Whether that means missed time, or similar inefficiency to 2025 when he had just 349 rushing yards on 67 carries in 13 games, we'll bet Jackson — turning 30 this season — doesn't get loose frequently enough to clear this rushing total.

#article

The Baltimore Ravens entered training camp with a quarterback room that appeared largely settled. Lamar Jackson's place atop the depth chart was unquestioned. Tyler Huntley provided an experienced backup option. Beyond that, most attention centered on how the remaining quarterbacks would sort themselves out.
Few would have predicted Joe ******* nano would force his way into the conversation. The undrafted free agent arrived in Baltimore with no guarantees, alongside a more recognizable name in Diego Pavia. He wasn't among the organization's headline rookie additions. As training camp unfolded, opportunities were often difficult to come by, yet by the time the Ravens finalized their initial 53-man roster, ******* nano had accomplished something many longshots never do.
He made himself impossible to ignore.
Head coach Jesse Minter shed light on that journey while discussing Baltimore's roster decisions with the media. In doing so, he offered more insight into one of the Ravens' biggest surprises of the summer.
When asked why the Ravens chose to keep three quarterbacks, Minter's answer was straightforward. What he stated surfaced repeatedly throughout the discussion.

#fagnano #quarterbacks

Ravens kicker Tyler Loop missed field goals of 58 and 51 yards in the preseason finale. He finished the preseason 5-of-8 as he tries to rebound from the 44-yard miss that ended the Ravens' season in Week 17.
Baltimore kept Loop on the roster, but signed Jake Moody to the practice squad on Monday.
"I have a lot of confidence in Tyler still," Jesse Minter said, via Jamison Hensley of ESPN. "He's had a great training camp. I expect him to be our kicker going into [the Sept. 13 season opener in] Indianapolis.
"But you're always trying to just have every scenario covered, and so that's what we're trying to do as a team."
Loop, whom the Ravens drafted in 2025 to replace Justin Tucker, went 30-of-34 but was only 1-of-4 from 50 yards or longer. That was the second-worst rate in the NFL.

#Ravens #kicker #preseason #week

The Baltimore Ravens drafted LaJohntay Wester because they were fans of what he could do with the ball in his hands. A skilled returner and 2023 First-Team All-American, he landed on Eric DeCosta's radar, resulting in the former Colorado Buffaloes star's 2025 sixth-round selection.
He stacked 198 yards on 16 punt returns and another 246 on ten kick returns. It's now year two, and throughout training camp and the preseason, he has shown he may offer much more than just explosive special teams play. Head coach Jesse Minter recently went as far as to praise him publicly.
Three preseason games are in the rearview mirror. Every week brought another sign that Wester was climbing the organizational ladder. More opportunities followed. More praise arrived. More importantly, more production and trust were earned.
That trust was no longer subtle. Wester's stock is rising. He capped Baltimore's 41-3 preseason finale victory over the Washington Commanders with a touchdown reception, continuing a summer that has steadily strengthened his case for a meaningful role heading into the regular season.
Speaking with the media after Friday night's win, head coach Jesse Minter again tipped his cap to Wester, highlighting the progress Wester has made since arriving in Baltimore.

#minter #head

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, is warning that subpoenas are on the table if county prosecutors accused of going easy on illegal immigrants who commit crimes do not cooperate.
Jordan's committee is investigating district attorneys for so-called "sanctuary jurisdictions" who have been accused of taking immigration status into account when pursuing criminal complaints, even when the alleged crime has nothing to do with the suspect's legal status.
"If we have to, we'll use subpoenas to get the documents that we think they may not be giving us. There's a process we always go through. We ask for things, we ask again, we explain why, we work with their office — in some cases their counsel — and back and forth," Jordan explained in an interview with Fox News Digital. "And then if we have to use subpoenas, we certainly will do that ... but we want to know the facts."
Doj Opens Investigation Into Soros-backed Da Accused Of Shielding Illegal Immigrants From Consequences
Of particular concern, Jordan said, is Fairfax County, Virginia, DA Steve Descano. Descano was recently thrust under scrutiny after the stabbing death of 41-year-old U.S. citizen Stephanie Minter, whose accused killer came to the U.S. illegally from Sierra Leone in 2012.

#jordan #descano

Nate Tice & Robert Mays deep dive on all four teams in the AFC North ahead of the 2026 NFL season. The dynamic duo kick things off with the division champion Pittsburgh Steelers: can new head coach Mike McCarthy go on one more run with QB Aaron Rodgers?
Next up, the Baltimore Ravens, who are tied for the highest win total in the league currently, despite going 8-9 last year and kicking off the season with a new head coach in Jesse Minter. Are the Ravens ready to make a Super Bowl run in 2026? The Cincinnati Bengals are up next, and Nate & Robert weigh in on if they've done enough on defense to allow Joe Burrow & his elite receivers to carry them to a deep playoff run, plus a potential transition to an under-center offense.
Finally, the Cleveland Browns have made plenty of interesting moves this offseason, but will they translate to wins on the field this fall? Nate & Robert reveal their expectations for head coach Todd Monken and the Browns' young roster. The duo finish off the show with their final predictions: who takes home the AFC North this season?
(3:30) - Steelers deep dive
(28:45) - Ravens deep dive

#nate #coach

The Baltimore Ravens have spent much of training camp evaluating young players competing for larger roles. One who is generating a lot more attention in recent weeks is defensive lineman Aeneas Peebles. The flashes have been difficult to miss. Whether it's disrupting plays in practice, creating pressure in preseason games, or earning praise from his coaches, Peebles has steadily worked his way into the conversation as one of Baltimore's more intriguing depth pieces along the defensive front.
Head coach Jesse Minter recently pointed to the playmaking instincts that keep showing up on tape. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver echoed that, offering an even more revealing ****** sment. During a recent conversation with reporters, Weaver was asked about Peebles' development and what he has seen from the young defensive lineman. His answer included a comparison that immediately stood out. It shouldn't be glossed over or taken lightly.
"'Fub' [Aeneas Peebles] to me is all about consistency, and the comparison I have made to him is I coached Kyle Williams in Buffalo."
Williams was one of the NFL's most respected interior defenders during his career. He earned six Pro Bowl selections while becoming a cornerstone of the Buffalo Bills' defense. Weaver isn't claiming Peebles has reached that level yet. What he is saying is that he sees similarities in the traits that made Williams successful. The most interesting part of Weaver's answer wasn't the comparison itself. It was his explanation of what separates flashes from consistent production.
According to the Ravens' defensive coordinator, Williams possessed a complete understanding of his strengths and how to maximize them. Peebles, meanwhile, is still working through that process.

#peebles

As years and seasons pass, the modern NFL becomes increasingly obsessed with disguise. Coaches and their coordinators spend countless hours searching for ways to confuse quarterbacks, hide intentions, and create pre-snap hesitation. The challenge, however, is that complexity can become a double-edged sword. A defense that confuses opponents can sometimes confuse the players who execute it.
That balancing act is something the Baltimore Ravens have been working through during training camp. Eric DeCosta and company have ***** embled a unit filled with versatile players who can line up in multiple spots. Jesse Minter and Anthony Weaver are charged with teaching players to handle a variety of responsibilities.
The more flexibility a defense possesses, the more options coaches have at their disposal. The question becomes how to maximize that versatility without overwhelming the players expected to execute it. Recently, Ravens defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver spoke with reporters and was asked about the ripple effects of having so many defenders capable of moving around the formation.
"The ripple effect for the players, I think, is you have to have a very smart team — because if you are going to move guys around, ultimately that means other guys are going to have to do different jobs, too."
Weaver's answer offered an interesting look at the philosophy guiding Baltimore's defensive approach. That comment highlights an often-overlooked aspect of defensive football. Versatility isn't just about one player learning multiple positions.

#players #coaches #defense

Ravens get 'just right' win total projection that fans will love to see originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Baltimore Ravens are heading into the 2026 NFL season with some major changes within the franchise. While the roster isn't significantly different, the exchange of coaches, bringing in Jesse Minter to replace John Harbaugh, is a huge one.
They did add some new talent to both sides of the ball, but for the most part, this is a team running it back. However, after a down year in 2025, it's going to take a turnaround to return to top playoff-contending status.
Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic believes that the Ravens' 10.9 projected win total from The Athletic is "just right" ahead of what could be a huge bounce-back season for Baltimore in 2026.
"Projected wins: 10.9. Verdict: Just right," Zrebiec writes. "... The Ravens, at least right now, are pretty healthy and have a forgiving schedule to start the season. A number of factors point to a Baltimore bounce-back."

#Ravens #right #projected #total

Welcome back to Loose Feathers, a regular round-up of the latest news and ***** ysis about the Baltimore Ravens! In today's edition, we cover a headscratching decision from a division rival, an optimistic projection about Jesse Minter's new defense, and more!
Can you believe it? I mean, can you believe it?
On Monday, the Browns named Deshaun Watson their starting quarterback for their 2026 season. Todd Monken will go from calling plays for two-time MVP Lamar Jackson to, well, a has-been who just went 5-for-12 for 36 yards and an interception in a preseason game. Life comes at you fast.
Critiquing the Browns' decision-making requires understanding it, and, well, I'm not sure that is possible. But one of the weirdest wrinkles came this weekend, when Watson attacked Browns fans for booing him at Saturday's preseason game.
During his time on the field in Cleveland's second exhibition game – and his first at home since a 2024 Achilles tear – Watson was booed by several Browns fans. When speaking after the contest, Watson openly acknowledged the "personal" nature of the reception he received from the fan base and remarked he may need to approach the coming season as containing 17 road games. Cleveland's first two games will indeed be away from home, and it will be Watson tasked with leading the way on offense.

#season

The Baltimore Ravens are about to kick off their second preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings. Here are some last-minute predictions from Baltimore Beatdown's staff!
Offensively, I'd anticipate you see the Ravens continue feeding the rookie tight ends plenty. Hibner had the hot hand with plenty of targets last week, so Cuevas may draw more targets this week. Adam Randall seemed to heat up more as his game progressed as well, so look to see him more confident out of the backfield. Baltimore's defense didn't force a turnover against Philly, but I think that changes in this one. JJ McCarthy knows he's got a lot to prove for his NFL future as he settles into the backup role, and I think he gets over-aggressive and air mails one or two that the secondary takes away. I'll call my shot and say Keyon Martin stays hot and gets one.
Baltimore's O-line had a rough outing in joint practices against the pressure looks brought by Brian Flores and this Viking defense. Expect to see a bit of a regression from ***** nano and Reed as they feel the heat. There's such a degree of randomness to preseason that it's tough to predict a score, but I think Minnesota's pressure wins them the turnover battle and the game. MIN 27, BAL 20 – Kevin McNelis
I foresee an ugly, defensive game from both teams today. I predict another big day for the Ravens' secondary in particular, while I think Baltimore's offense will struggle against the relentless blitzing from Brian Flores. Ja'Kobi Lane and Elijah Sarratt will be the stars on offense when pass protection holds up. I think we will see more pressure from Jesse Minter's defense this week as well. – Dustin *****
The biggest thing to watch in this game is the offensive line. While there are some other positions battles such as the 5th edge players, cornerback depth spots, there are a ton of questions to answer on the line. The most obvious being the center battle. With Danny Pinter going down, is it Gwyn or Pocic who runs with the 1s? How much time does Gwyn, who's already looked great but is inexperienced, get versus Pocic, who need ramp up time? We also need to see improvement from Andrew Vorhees and Emery Jones Jr. after awful showings last week. Corey Bullock will get center reps with Pinter down but could absolutely steal a backup guard spot. Gerad Lichtenhan also looked better than both of those guys last week. – Zach Canter

#game #Ravens #baltimore

The Baltimore Ravens have spent much of training camp adjusting to new voices, some in the huddle and many on the sideline. With that have come new expectations, but what else would you expect with a new coaching staff?
While the changes have touched every area of the roster, the Ravens spent two days testing themselves against one of the NFL's most aggressive defenses. Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores threw pressure packages, disguises, and coverages at Baltimore's offense that few teams can replicate.
Wide receiver Rashod Bateman believes one difference stands above the rest. It's year six for the former first-round selection, one representing the potential for a bounce-back. During a post-practice conversation with the Baltimore media, he shared a trait this Ravens team has that was foreign to other iterations of the team he has been part of.
"I would just say [we're] a very detail-oriented team. From head coach [Jesse Minter] to [offensive coordinator Declan Doyle] to [wide] receivers coach [Keary Colbert], everybody really harps on the details and the small things, and that's just not what we were in our past. I think, right now, we're just learning how to play fast, smart football. [We're] trusting the training, trusting the call [and] trusting our teammates. So, I think that's the difference right now, honestly. [We're] just building that team chemistry for sure."
Bateman's comments offered a revealing glimpse into why optimism has grown around Baltimore's offense. The Ravens aren't simply installing new schemes or learning new terminology. According to one of their veteran receivers, they're embracing a different level of detail, communication, and accountability.

#Ravens #spent #coordinator

The Baltimore Ravens' two joint practices with the Minnesota Vikings should give the key starters, critical rookies, and role players the type of intense, controlled work that Jesse Minter values more than extended preseason action. That makes Saturday afternoon's game at U.S. Bank Stadium especially important for other rookies, reserves and veterans competing near the bottom of the depth chart.
Some of those players will receive snaps during the joint sessions, but the first-team periods and situational work will naturally command most of the attention. Saturday afternoon's game offers longer evaluations, live tackling and unscripted situations that cannot be fully recreated in practice. Minnesota has also indicated that productive joint work could limit the number of additional snaps its starters receive Saturday, creating another reserve-heavy opportunity for both coaching staffs.
Here are 10 matchups to watch when the Ravens and Vikings complete their week in Minnesota.
Huntley was efficient in Baltimore's preseason opener, completing six of seven passes for 76 yards, but he also took two sacks. Minnesota's defense should present a more complex protection test, even if Flores does not use his full pressure package in an exhibition game. Huntley must identify the unblocked defender, get the offense into the correct answer, and avoid turning a negative play into a turnover. His experience and mobility give Baltimore stability behind Jackson, but a clean operation against Minnesota's reserve front would be more valuable than a few highlight throws. The evaluation begins with how consistently Huntley keeps the offense on schedule.
Fagnano delivered one of Baltimore's strongest performances against Philadelphia, completing 11 of 14 passes for 118 yards and a touchdown, although he also threw an interception. Thomas enters the matchup with momentum after the undrafted Vikings rookie intercepted a pass in Minnesota's opener against the Giants and continued receiving additional practice work. ******* nano must move the safety with his eyes and avoid predetermining throws over the middle. Thomas, meanwhile, will be tested in his communication and patience against a quarterback who has shown he can distribute the football accurately when the initial read is available.

#Vikings #baltimore

First-year NFL head coach Jesse Minter continues to bring a different kind of energy to Baltimore Ravens. The team is preparing for the upcoming season by running reps at training camp.
He grabbed the spotlight during a team outing. Minter stepped in front of his players and delivered a seemingly impromptu rap performance. This happened as the team prepares for its second preseason game on Saturday against the Minnesota Vikings
MORE: Ravens get positive Nate Wiggins injury update after he was carted off
Minter rapped to Eminem's hit song "Lose Yourself." He looked comfortable in the moment while his players cheered him on. The scene offered a glimpse into the personality behind Baltimore's new head coach.
Minter took over the Ravens this offseason. Baltimore hired him in January after he spent the previous two seasons as the Los Angeles Chargers' defensive coordinator. He also worked for the Ravens from 2017 through 2020.

#saturday

The Baltimore Ravens traveled to Minnesota this week, and their reasons for doing so were about more than a change of scenery. Joint practices offer coaches opportunities to evaluate players against unfamiliar opponents.
They also provide a chance to stress-test schemes before the regular season begins. For head coach Jesse Minter, that made Wednesday's work against the Minnesota Vikings particularly valuable.
Following a very intense joint practice session, Minter spoke with media members. He was asked whether he expected Minnesota's defense to provide a significant challenge for Baltimore's offense. After all, Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores has built a reputation as one of football's most aggressive and creative defensive play-callers, consistently finding ways to pressure offenses and force quarterbacks into difficult decisions. Minter's answer left little doubt about the respect he has for Flores.
"Yes, absolutely (When asked about whether he though facing Flores' defense would provide a good test). ******* ody probably pressures more in the league than 'Flo' [Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores]. He does a phenomenal job. He is one of the best coordinators in the league. So, it is a great test."
The praise carries additional weight coming from Minter, a defensive-minded head coach whose own reputation has been built on creativity and adaptability. Rather than viewing Flores' pressure packages as an obstacle, Minter seemed to embrace the challenge they presented.

#head

The Baltimore Ravens continue to process the loss of one of the franchise's beloved figures after learning of O.J. Brigance's passing at the age of 56. While many around the organization have reflected on Brigance's remarkable battle with ALS and his lasting impact on the franchise, stories about how special he was continue to pour in.
Jesse Minter, defensive line coach Lou Esposito, and Calais Campbell spoke with the media on Tuesday. Baltimore's head coach offered one of his more personal memories. When asked about Brigance following the team's closed walkthrough before departing for Minnesota, Minter didn't begin with football accomplishments or organizational ***** les. Instead, he recalled a simple gesture from years ago that helped establish a relationship he would never forget.
"To me, the biggest impact, like when I first got hired here the first time, O.J. Brigance sent me an email, and then we sort of started exchanging some emails every so often about different things throughout the season."
For Minter, those exchanges offered an early glimpse into the type of person Brigance was. Minter continued with his thought, offering some behind-the-scenes access into part of what truly made his friend special.
"Just the wisdom, the strength that that guy showed... I mean, he is like everything that you want this organization to be about. "He means a lot to this place. He means a lot to everybody that has been here. He has impacted this place, maybe as much as anybody, just with what he has brought to the building."

#continue

Saturday night left very little room for criticism as the Baltimore Ravens sent the hometown fans home happy. They opened the preseason with a 24-7 one-sided victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.
In true midseason form, Jesse Minter wasn't interested in celebrating the result for long. By Monday, the Ravens' first-year head coach had already shifted his attention toward the lessons learned from the performance and how to help his team improve.
That's the reality of August football. The result matters far less than the lessons a team can carry into September, and Minter's attention was already fixed on those details.
The Ravens have another busy week. Monday morning's practice was followed by Jesse Minter's chat with the media. Tuesday brings a walkthrough before the Ravens fly to Minnesota for joint practices against the Vikings.
When asked what stood out after reviewing the film, Minter pointed to several encouraging developments. Interestingly, his first answer had little to do with touchdowns, highlight plays, or individual statistics.

#Ravens #first #already

The Baltimore Ravens received some unexpected news last week when veteran offensive tackle Kendall Lamm elected to retire. That decision removed an experienced presence from the offensive line room and immediately created additional opportunities for younger players fighting to establish themselves.
Two of those players may have already begun making their case. When Jesse Minter spoke with reporters Monday, he was asked about the performances of tackles Carson Vinson and Gerad Lichtenhan following Baltimore's 24-7 preseason-opening victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. His response suggested the Ravens liked what they saw from both young linemen.
"I thought both [Carson Vinson and Gerad Lichtenhan] really acquitted themselves well. They played a ton of snaps. They really got an opportunity to play a majority of the game."
That alone would have been encouraging for two players trying to earn larger roles. What stood out, however, was how Minter described the quality of their work.
The Ravens didn't simply need Vinson and Lichtenhan to survive extended action against Philadelphia. They needed them to show they could handle it. According to their head coach, that's exactly what they did.

#vinson #minter

The Baltimore Ravens left their preseason opener with plenty to feel good about. Saturday's 24-7 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles offered encouraging signs for a team navigating its first season under head coach Jesse Minter. Baltimore played a clean game. They showcased several young contributors and gave their new coaching staff a successful first outing together.
By Monday, however, the focus had already shifted toward the next challenge. The Ravens returned to the practice field two days after the win. They will hold a closed walkthrough Tuesday before traveling to Eagan, Minnesota. They're doing so to hang out for joint practices against the Vikings.
The football benefits are obvious. Still, when Minter spoke with the media, he said he views the trip as more than a preseason checkpoint.
"It is a great opportunity for our team just to kind of be together, be away, spend time together in football and out of football... It is something we are excited about."
Joint practices have become one of the NFL's most valuable evaluation tools, particularly for teams that limit starter participation during preseason games. Minter acknowledged the football advantages of spending two days working against one of the league's most respected coaching staffs.

#team