The Ravens' rookie class will not be judged by the same standard Friday.
Some players are preparing for substantial regular-season roles. Others are trying to prove they belong on the 53-man roster at all. The preseason finale against Washington gives the latter group one more chance to influence a decision that also includes practices, health and the number of available spots. These seven rookies have particularly useful opportunities to strengthen their cases, whether that means making the roster or earning a role beyond it.
1. OLB Ethan Burke
Burke must give Baltimore a reason to keep a fifth outside linebacker. His best argument is being useful against both the pass and run, then adding work on special teams. Another productive outing would make it harder to dismiss
him as a player who can be developed later.
2. QB Joe Fagnano
Fagnano belongs on the projected roster, but keeping three quarterbacks carries a cost. Friday offers a chance to reinforce the decision with controlled passing, sound protection adjustments and an understanding of game situations. Avoiding an unnecessary turnover can say more than forcing a difficult completion.
3. TE Josh Cuevas
Cuevas is competing for a role in a group that could keep four tight ends. Washington gives him another opportunity to demonstrate that his receiving ability is supported by dependable blocking. If he can handle both, the Ravens have a better reason to keep the full group.
4. DL Rayshaun Benny
Benny is a 2026 draft pick, but the defensive line has several credible alternatives. He needs to withstand blocks, locate the runner, and finish. Potential production is especially relevant behind a veteran group whose workloads may need to be managed during the season.
5. OT Diego Pounds
Pounds is trying to change the reserve tackle calculation. Ronnie Stanley and Roger Rosengarten occupy the starting jobs, with Carson Vinson and Gerad Lichtenhan also competing for backup work. Pounds can improve his chances by showing that the offense can call a pass without having to provide him constant help.
6. G Evan Beerntsen
Beerntsen faces competition from Andrew Vorhees, Emery Jones Jr. and Corey Bullock for reserve interior work. His opportunities may be limited, making penalties and missed assignments particularly costly. A steady performance could strengthen a practice squad case even if there is no room on the initial 53.
7. ILB Dominic DeLuca
DeLuca needs to prove he can handle coverage responsibilities while also pursuing the run. Roquan Smith, Trenton Simpson and Teddye Buchanan lead the group, while Jay Higgins IV is another option for depth. DeLuca's most direct route to staying involved is through sound defensive assignments and special teams coverage-unit work.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens rookies with most at stake in preseason finale vs. Commanders
