Key Insights Gleaned from Baltimore Ravens’ Preseason Finale

The preseason finale often serves as a platform for those looking to prove themselves worthy of a roster spot. While stars are resting, the real battles occur among players trying to cement their places on the team. 

As the Baltimore Ravens locked horns with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, there were several noteworthy performances and notable absences. Let’s delve deep into the key insights from this intriguing matchup. 

Roster Absences

Sometimes, the players who don’t play reveal more about a team’s strategies than those who do. Two notable absences from the Ravens’ roster might offer clues about the team’s plans as they approach the regular season.  

The Seymour-Kelly Situation

Kevon Seymour, despite missing the recent practice, had been starting ahead of Kyu Blu Kelly at cornerback. With his veteran status allowing for certain roster moves without the waiver process, Seymour’s absence presents intriguing possibilities.

Mitchell’s Mysterious Absence

Rookie UDFA Keaton Mitchell showed potential as a runner and kick returner earlier in the preseason. But his absence from the finale raises questions: Is he part of the Ravens’ long-term plan? A vital position on any NFL roster is the backup quarterback. This preseason, the battle between Josh Johnson and Tyler Huntley had been closely watched, and the finale provided some valuable insights. Josh Johnson may have solidified his spot as the backup. Posting a 6-9 for 95 yards and a touchdown against the Buccaneers, his performance, coupled with his good health, speaks volumes.

Huntley’s Health and Roster Mechanics

With Huntley’s ongoing injury concerns, the Ravens might be forced to make some strategic decisions. Their approach towards him and Johnson will be crucial during the roster cutdowns, especially with the latter’s veteran status.

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Trenton Simpson’s Development

Trenton Simpson’s progression, or lack thereof, became a major point of discussion after the finale. A talented youngster, his performance in the preseason suggests there’s still much room for growth.  Despite being a third-round pick, Simpson found himself down the pecking order, playing later in the game and seemingly struggling to adapt.

His struggles in recent weeks raise questions about what role, if any, he might have in the upcoming season. Is he a long-term project or just going through early career hiccups? The starting left guard position has been one of the most keenly contested spots in the Ravens’ lineup this preseason. Two players have emerged as frontrunners.

John Simpson’s Dominance

John Simpson has emerged as a favorite for the left guard position, outperforming his peers and establishing a robust case for himself. While Aumavae-Laulu started the preseason on a strong note, recent performances suggest he’s struggling to keep pace with Simpson, especially when facing stronger opponents.

With Tyus Bowser out and new additions to the team, the edge rusher position has been a focal point of the preseason. The Ravens have some decisions to make. Jeremiah Moon has consistently started in the recent games, even ahead of fourth-round pick Tavius Robinson. His stock seems to be rising rapidly.

Wrapping It Up

As the preseason draws to a close, the Baltimore Ravens have given us a glimpse into the tough decisions they face. From roster absences to position battles, every moment of the finale offered a valuable insight. The preseason finale is more than just a game. For many players, it’s a final shot at making the roster or proving their worth.

With the roster taking shape and the regular season approaching, the Ravens and their fans have much to look forward to. The strategies and decisions made now will shape the team’s fortunes in the upcoming months.

The curtain has come down on the Baltimore Ravens’ preseason, a critical phase that offers a blend of anticipation, excitement, and anxiety. As we transition into the regular season, let’s recap and conclude on what these insights potentially mean for the team and its avid followers. The preseason is a complex tapestry of individual stories, hopes, dreams, and immense dedication. Players battle for their positions, veterans strive to maintain their standing, and rookies ardently aspire to cement a spot. The finale against the Buccaneers epitomized these very sentiments.

The Road Ahead

The insights gleaned from this finale highlight the depth and talent available to the Ravens. Each decision, from roster cuts to starting lineups, carries with it the weight of the season’s aspirations. As fans, while we may analyze and speculate based on these games, it’s essential to remember the broader picture. The real battle is just beginning, and the Ravens are shaping up to be a formidable force.

In essence, as we gear up for the regular season, one thing is clear: the Baltimore Ravens have an ensemble of talent, and how they harness it will define their journey ahead.