The Ravens’ tight ends are feasting at training camp this week.
On Monday it was Isaiah Likely making play after play. On Tuesday, it was Mark Andrews.
The offensive play of the day belonged to Andrews, who fully extended his body to make an acrobatic diving catch for a first down late in practice.
The throw by Lamar Jackson was as impressive as the catch. Travis Jones was bearing down on Jackson, leaving him little time and an obstructed view. Jackson improvised by making a sidearm delivery, slinging the ball about 20 yards downfield to give Andrews an opportunity to make a spectacular grab.
Andrews also made several other catches for first downs and his strong chemistry with Jackson remains a lethal weapon. After one reception on a crossing pattern, Andrews turned up the field and stiff-armed Marlon Humphrey who was closing in. Humphrey didn’t attempt to tackle Andrews to the ground, and Andrews kept rumbling toward the end zone to finish another strong rep.
Here are more observations from Tuesday’s practice:
- Ravens who did not practice included wide receivers Rashod Bateman, Deonte Harty, and Devontez Walker; outside linebacker Joe Evans; inside linebacker Yvandy Rigby and defensive tackle Rayshad Nichols.
- Jackson didn’t throw an interception and had his most accurate day since returning from last week’s illness. Jackson seems to have found his rhythm and it led to a cohesive day for the offense.
- Likely had another touchdown on Tuesday, getting the better of safety Kyle Hamilton during a red-zone period in which Jackson rifled a touchdown into a tight window.
- Jones had another strong day at defensive tackle putting pressure on quarterbacks and clogging running lanes. The Ravens could have a monster inside pass rush if Jones consistently combines with Justin Madubuike to push the pocket.
- Roger Rosengarten held his ground against veteran Kyle Van Noy, who used a bullrush attempting to overpower the rookie. It was a positive rep for Rosengarten as he battles for the starting spot at right tackle.
- Rookie cornerback Nate Wiggins broke up a couple of passes near the end of practice to cap a strong day. Afterward, Wiggins was greeted on the sideline with a handshake and smile from Defensive Coordinator Zach Orr. Wiggins has shown a willingness to play aggressively in coverage, using his speed and instincts to make plays on the ball.
- Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum ran interference for Justice Hill, who found a nice running lane on a sweep. The Ravens had several longer running gains Tuesday.
- Inside linebacker Chris Board had the lone interception of practice, picking off Josh Johnson and returning it for a touchdown.
- Roquan Smith led several inside linebackers running sprints after practice. There are many ways to display leadership and Smith checks many boxes.
- Derrick Henry bounced outside for his best gain of the day and showed a nice burst as he turned up field. Physically, Henry looks ready for Week 1 right now.
- Second year running back Owen Wright had a pair of decisive runs and is putting together a nice camp. A member of the practice squad last year, Wright will try to keep putting his best foot forward during preseason games.
- Wide receiver Sean Ryan had a strong day with several catches, including an impressive sliding catch on a comeback.