OTL: Cornerback is “An Issue, No Doubt”

The Baltimore Ravens will look to extend their cherished pre-season win streak record on Saturday with some unique challenges. Thursday was also a grim reminder about one of the weakest position groups on the Ravens, and we also got an update regarding another Free Agent visit.

Saturday will be the Ravens’ first preseason game, but if you are looking for starters, you will not get them on Saturday.

Harbaugh said that none of established starters, including Lamar Jackson obviously, will play Saturday.

— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) August 10, 2023

It would be a surprise if the team started these guys in more than one preseason game. Whether it was taking a long look at themselves internally and realizing it isn’t worth it or something else, this is the right choice. Nobody wants to see star players go down, especially when it can be avoided. Sitting starters early in preseason is an easy way to prevent injuries, and everyone should be happy that the Ravens are taking this approach.

This doesn’t shut the door on rookies playing, however:

Harbaugh said it’s a possibility that Zay Flowers will play in preseason.

— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) August 10, 2023

Why is it acceptable for a rookie who will be important for the team to play over a star? The answer is simple, Zay Flowers needs the reps. Do those other established stars need the reps? No, they don’t, but Zay and other first-years could benefit from getting some action in the preseason (key word: some).

I’m for it.

Can’t play scared. He needs reps. 1-2 drives and then put your feet up after 4-61-1 https://t.co/W9RM1K8SPN

— Cole Jackson (@ColeJacksonFB) August 10, 2023

The question is, just how much will Zay play? If he is playing into the second half and fourth quarter, then that is a problem. Like Cole says, just let Zay eat for two drives, show him how fast the NFL is, and get him those valuable reps. After the first quarter, please pull him, because this team can’t afford injuries to key pieces in games that don’t matter.

Speaking of injuries, we had a pretty revealing comment by John Harbaugh at the podium on Thursday.

Asked about the team’s CB depth, Harbaugh said it’s “an issue, no doubt.” Harbaugh acknowledged it’s something team will probably have to address.

— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) August 10, 2023

Harbs doesn’t open up like this often, so when he does, you know it is serious. The Ravens’ corner depth has been an issue for the whole offseason, but now injuries are also popping up. Pepe Williams was carted off the field during practice on Thursday; Rock Ya-sin is already on the shelf until the season starts, and Jalyn Armour-Davis has also been hurt. The depth chart is sickening outside of Marlon Humphrey with these injuries.

They need to make a move, no question. At least one, to be honest. Many of us would like to see an edge rusher added as well. Luckily we got an update on a move that would be a great add.

Harbaugh said door is still open with Jadeveon Clowney, as far as he knows, but he also said team is still talking to other FA edge guys.

— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) August 10, 2023

Jadeveon Clowney didn’t leave Baltimore yet, and they did offer him a contract, but it is unknown how interested Clowney is in signing with the Ravens or if he is just using the team to increase his price.

If Clowney signs, how does that affect their ability to get a corner? And who is out there?

JAD is contributing & that’s a more than we can say about him since he was drafted in ’22. He lacks consistency but he’s building, although injury prone. As for FA CB’s, there’s not much out there. Byrce Callahan may be a fit but he’s not a perimeter CB. Trade may be an option.

— Tony Lombardi (@RSRLombardi) August 11, 2023

All options and possibilities have to be considered at this point, but again have faith in EDC to get something done, especially if Harbs is making comments like that.

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