The Ravens' preseason finale should provide a useful look at the players Baltimore could need when a starter misses time.
Friday's game against Washington is also the last chance for several reserves to make their cases before roster cuts. The most revealing plays may be a protection adjustment, a tackle in space or a block that allows someone else to make the gain.
These selections are based on Baltimore's depth chart and roster needs. Participation remains subject to the team's final playing plan.
Quarterback: Joe Fagnano
Friday night will be about watching how quickly Fagnano recognizes coverage changes and gets through his reads. Washington has intercepted four passes in two preseason games, creating a meaningful test of his decision-making.
Running back: Rasheen Ali
Washington has allowed 4.5
yards per carry this preseason, giving Ali a chance to produce on the ground. His roster case also requires dependable pass protection and secure handling on returns.
Wide receiver: Elijah Sarratt
Sarratt can strengthen his case for offensive snaps by separating on schedule. Focus on whether the quarterback can deliver the ball at the intended point in the route.
Tight end: Josh Cuevas
Cuevas needs to follow his receiving production with dependable blocking. Against linebackers such as Jordan Magee or Kain Medrano, his ability to handle both assignments would support keeping four tight ends.
Left tackle: Carson Vinson
Vinson is listed behind Ronnie Stanley. His pass protection needs to remain sound against both outside speed and an inside counter, particularly when Washington knows Baltimore has to throw.
Left guard: Andrew Vorhees
Vorhees' value is being ready when needed. Watch his exchanges with the center and tackle when Washington sends rushers across gaps or changes its front.
Center: Jovaughn Gwyn
Gwyn and Ethan Pocic share an “or” designation. Accurate snaps, clear protection calls and resistance to interior pressure can help separate a competition that remains open on the depth chart.
Right guard: Emery Jones Jr.
Jones can strengthen his reserve role by preventing pressure from collapsing the pocket. His ability to work with different centers and tackles is also relevant to Baltimore's lineup flexibility.
Right tackle: Diego Pounds
Pounds needs more than a few successful run blocks. His protection on longer passing downs will help determine whether Baltimore views him as ready for the roster or better suited for further development.
Defensive tackle: C.J. Okoye
Watch whether Okoye can keep his pads down and maintain his assigned gap. Size helps, but controlling a block long enough for the linebacker to reach the runner is the useful result.
Nose tackle: Rayshaun Benny
Benny has an opportunity to show he can hold his position against combination blocks. Washington has given Kaytron Allen 33 preseason carries, providing a potential test of Baltimore's interior run defense.
Defensive end: Aeneas Peebles
Peebles needs pressure without sacrificing his run assignment. An inside move that opens a rushing lane can undo the value of an otherwise aggressive rep.
Outside linebacker: Ethan Burke
Burke's pursuit must remain disciplined. Setting the edge, recognizing a screen and finishing the rush would show that Baltimore can use him in more than one situation.
Inside linebacker: Jay Higgins IV
Higgins must keep the defense organized while making his own reads. Watch his reaction to play-action and whether he takes an efficient route to the ball.
Cornerback: T.J. Tampa Jr.
Washington's Jacoby Jones has five catches for 70 yards, while Jaden Bradley has four for 63. Tampa faces receivers with their own roster arguments; his positioning and discipline need to hold up.
Safety: Keondre Jackson
Jackson needs to show that he can support the run without leaving the defense exposed behind him. His work on kickoff and punt coverage also gains praise.
Kicker: Tyler Loop
Loop's opportunities depend on the offense, but his efficiency needs to remain consistent from different distances. The snap, hold, and approach all affect the result.
Punter and holder: Ryan Eckley
Watch placement and coverage timing alongside distance. A long punt that gives the returner room to run is less useful than one that limits the return.
Long snapper: Nick Moore
Moore's job is the most vital in the kicking game. His placement and protection help Eckley and Loop perform their assignments without making late adjustments.
Returner: LaJohntay Wester
Wester is listed first on punt returns. Securing the ball, judging when to call for a fair catch, and taking available yardage are the priorities before any attempt to create a longer return.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: One Ravens player to watch at every position vs. Commanders
