The Ravens’ 2026 draft class played a significant role in Baltimore’s preseason opening win over Philadelphia. While preseason production only tells part of the story, these games give us our first opportunity to see how the coaching staff plans to deploy its rookies, what areas they are emphasizing in their development, and how their college traits translate to the NFL.
Here’s what stood out from Vega Ioane, Matthew Hibner, and Elijah Sarratt in their first preseason action.
G Vega Ioane (Round 1, No. 14 overall)
15 snaps | 5 run block
| 10 pass protection
Ioane only played 15 snaps in his preseason debut, but there was plenty to like in the limited sample. His physicality immediately translated, as he consistently looked to finish blocks, put defenders on the ground, and find additional work when uncovered.
In pass protection, Ioane flashed the anchor and play strength that stood out on his college tape. He handled several one on one reps without surrendering ground and showed good awareness when Philadelphia brought movement up front. On stunts, Ioane did a nice job redirecting defenders’ momentum and passing rushers off within the larger protection scheme rather than chasing them out of position.
It was a short debut, but Ioane looked comfortable handling NFL power and played with the finishing mentality Baltimore wants from its interior offensive linemen.
Related: Vega Ioane’s post-draft scouting report
WR Elijah Sarratt (Round 4, No. 115 overall)
30 snaps | 6 receptions | 66 yards
Sarratt made his presence felt throughout his 30 snaps, finishing with six receptions for 66 yards and showing several of the traits that made him an intriguing addition to Baltimore’s receiver room.
His route running stood out in isolated situations. On one one on one rep, Sarratt used a convincing head fake to manipulate the defensive back and create separation. He also showed his toughness at the catch point, securing multiple receptions in traffic despite defensive backs staying tight to him through the catch.
Sarratt was equally effective against zone coverage. He consistently worked into open areas, presented himself to the quarterback, and found opportunities to continue working downfield after the catch. His combination of route detail, spatial awareness, and ability to finish through contact made for a productive preseason debut.
The production was encouraging, but more importantly, Sarratt’s college strengths already appeared to be translating. His first NFL action showed a receiver capable of creating separation with technique, finding voids against zone, and remaining reliable when the throwing window becomes contested.
Related: Elijah Sarratt’s post-draft scouting report
TE Matthew Hibner (Round 4, No. 133 overall)
32 snaps | 17 run block | 2 pass protection | 5 receptions | 61 yards
Hibner put together one of the most impressive performances of Baltimore’s rookie class. He finished as the Ravens’ highest graded offensive player by PFF with a 92.6 overall grade, including a 74.0 pass blocking grade and a 93.6 receiving grade.
His athleticism showed up immediately in the passing game. On one rep, Hibner matched up one on one with a linebacker, created separation on an out and up route, and finished the play with the reception. He also caught a screen and showed his ability to operate in space, quickly getting upfield and creating additional yardage after the catch.
Hibner’s impact wasn’t limited to receiving. He logged 17 run blocking snaps and had several quality reps sealing defenders to create running lanes. That combination of receiving ability, movement skills, and functional blocking translated into five catches for 61 yards and an encouraging first look at how Baltimore could utilize his versatility.
Related: Matthew Hibner’s post-draft scouting report
