John Harbaugh confirmed a sharp shift in Ravens’ preseason approach: the coaching staff will play only the young, developmental players in the final tune-up against Washington, effectively sending vets like Jackson and other presumed starters to the sideline. The move is all‑about roster evaluation and tape for depth pieces who could carve out meaningful roles once the regular season begins. The plan dovetails with a broader emphasis on preserving health through August while still extracting competitive reps from those fighting to make the roster.

Injury news dominated the week, with Jaire Alexander (knee) and DeAndre Hopkins (knee) highlighted as players who are being managed rather than pushed back to full speed. Emry Jones’ labrum surgery ends any early-season hopes, while Isaac Likely’s rehab schedule remains uncertain, and Katon Mitchell returned to practice, a positive sign for the Ravens’ pass defense. Harbaugh stressed that the team won’t rush any knee or shoulder rehab, instead prioritizing Week 1 readiness and long‑term durability. The absence of a joint practice with Washington strips away a critical controlled environment for vets to gain reps, but Baltimore has already leaned on tape from the Colts game and a deep defensive rookie class to carry momentum into September.

The season’s early slate sits as a formidable test: five of six games against division-winners, with Week 2 featuring Joe Flacco and Cleveland—an emotional, high‑stakes matchup that could set the tone for the opening stretch. Baltimore’s depth at receiver, corner, and along the line has drawn intrigue, particularly rookies and second‑year players who flashed in August. The Ravens’ depth chart appears robust enough to withstand inevitable early injuries, even as the true test begins against Buffalo and the rest of a gauntlet-filled schedule. Fantasy managers should watch how Hopkins’ workload evolves post‑knee management and whether emerging pieces like Flowers or the safety‑backups step into Week 1 roles when the lights finally come on.