Which Ravens Are Rising and Who’s Falling? Baltimore Players Making Waves or Facing Pressure as Training Camp Draws Closer
As training camp approaches, the Baltimore Ravens find themselves in a unique and promising position. Coming off another competitive season that reaffirmed their status as perennial contenders, the franchise now shifts its focus toward refining its depth chart, solidifying its positional battles, and identifying those who are ready to ascend — or need to prove themselves. With talent spread across both sides of the ball, the coming weeks will be crucial for veterans, newcomers, and fringe roster players alike. Here’s an in-depth look at which Ravens appear primed for strong training camps and who may be facing an uphill climb to secure their spot in 2025.
Zay Flowers finished his rookie year as one of Lamar Jackson’s most trusted targets and has only gotten sharper this offseason. Flowers’ route-running precision, sudden acceleration, and chemistry with Jackson have been on full display during minicamps and OTAs. Coaches and teammates have repeatedly praised his attention to detail and improved understanding of the playbook, suggesting the Boston College alum is ready to take an even bigger leap in year two. With Odell Beckham Jr. gone and Rashod Bateman still seeking consistency, Flowers could emerge as the clear WR1 heading into the season.
The linebacker corps in Baltimore has long been anchored by excellence, and Trenton Simpson looks like the next big thing. After spending most of his rookie year learning behind Roquan Smith and Patrick Queen, Simpson now steps into the starting lineup with Queen gone to Pittsburgh. Early signs indicate he’s ready for the role. His sideline-to-sideline speed, versatility, and instincts have impressed throughout the offseason. He’ll need to show consistency in coverage and run fits during training camp, but Simpson is trending in the right direction to be a breakout defender.
One of the more surprising developments this offseason has been the emergence of Jalyn Armour-Davis in the secondary. After battling injuries early in his career, Armour-Davis has had a healthy and productive spring. He’s been sticky in coverage, especially in one-on-ones, and has drawn praise from the coaching staff for his competitive drive. With cornerback depth a concern following the departure of Ronald Darby and questions around the health of Marlon Humphrey, Armour-Davis could be a key contributor if he continues to progress during camp.
Tight end Isaiah Likely continues to prove he’s more than just a backup to Mark Andrews. With Andrews recovering from an ankle injury late last season, Likely took on a larger role and made the most of it. That confidence has carried over into this offseason, where he’s shown improved blocking and route-running. The Ravens are expected to lean more heavily into two-tight end sets in 2025, and Likely could carve out a significant role in this offense even when Andrews is fully healthy.
Once seen as a promising utility player and Pro Bowl returner, Devin Duvernay enters camp with his roster spot anything but guaranteed. The Ravens’ influx of young receivers — including the emergence of Tylan Wallace and the drafting of Devontez Walker — has crowded the position group. Additionally, Duvernay’s return skills, once elite, have become less of a necessity with rule changes that have de-emphasized the kick return game. Unless he can reassert himself as a reliable receiving threat, Duvernay may find himself on the outside looking in.
Veteran quarterback Josh Johnson has been a valuable presence in Baltimore’s quarterback room, but he may be squeezed out this year. With Lamar Jackson entrenched as the starter and Malik Cunningham drawing interest for a Taysom Hill-style role, the Ravens may only carry two quarterbacks on the active roster. Johnson’s age and limited upside compared to a developmental option like Cunningham could mean he’s more of a practice squad candidate than a 53-man lock.
The Ravens need depth at edge rusher, but Tavius Robinson hasn’t yet seized his opportunity. After a quiet rookie season, he’s been outshined this offseason by the likes of David Ojabo, who is returning strong from injury, and rookie Adisa Isaac, who has impressed with his burst and motor. Robinson will need a strong training camp to carve out a rotational role, especially in a crowded pass-rushing room that still may add a veteran before Week 1.
Ben Cleveland’s potential as a starting guard has long intrigued the Ravens’ coaching staff, but inconsistency and injuries have derailed his chances. With Kevin Zeitler gone and multiple openings on the offensive line, Cleveland has a golden opportunity to lock down a starting role. However, reports from minicamp indicate that he’s still struggling with technique and footwork, and others — like Andrew Vorhees and Sala Aumavae-Laulu — are getting more first-team reps. Cleveland enters camp with a lot to prove if he wants to secure a job.
The Ravens’ top draft pick this year, Nate Wiggins, brings elite speed and athleticism to the secondary. But rookie cornerbacks often go through growing pains, and Wiggins has had some moments of both brilliance and struggle so far. Coaches are being patient, understanding the long-term upside, but Wiggins will need to show growth in handling physical receivers and learning Baltimore’s complex coverage schemes. His performance in camp and preseason games could determine whether he starts outside or is used in sub-packages early on.
Keaton Mitchell electrified Ravens fans last year with his explosive plays before his season was cut short by an ACL tear. His rehab has reportedly gone well, but the team is being cautious with his return timeline. While Mitchell offers unique change-of-pace skills and big-play potential, he’ll face competition from Justice Hill and rookie Rasheen Ali for a backup role behind Derrick Henry. His health will be a major factor in determining whether he starts the year on the PUP list or is ready to contribute early.
Patrick Mekari’s versatility has made him a valuable piece of Baltimore’s offensive line for years, capable of playing every position across the front. However, as the team transitions toward a younger line and looks to solidify a core group of starters, Mekari’s role could shift more toward backup duty unless injuries open up spots. While his job is likely secure, the battle will be to see just how much playing time he can earn in 2025.
No evaluation of the Ravens would be complete without considering the impact of Lamar Jackson. The reigning MVP continues to grow as a leader and passer, and his command of Todd Monken’s offense has sharpened with time. With more weapons and better protection, Jackson is expected to orchestrate a high-powered offense. His ability to elevate teammates also changes the calculus for players like Flowers, Likely, and even a fringe receiver or two trying to make the cut. Jackson’s trust often dictates who sees the field — and who doesn’t.
Baltimore enters camp with high expectations and more depth than it’s had in years. However, that also means stiffer competition. Roster spots will be hard-earned, and even talented players may be squeezed out due to numbers at certain positions. The front office has done an excellent job building a roster that blends veterans, ascending young talent, and developmental upside. Now, it’s up to the players to make the most of their opportunities.
For those like Zay Flowers and Trenton Simpson, camp may simply be the runway to take off into stardom. For others like Ben Cleveland or Devin Duvernay, it may be the last chance to secure a future in Baltimore. The next few weeks promise intense competition, compelling storylines, and a clearer picture of which Ravens will be taking flight in 2025.
