Ravens' Offensive Line Rookie Duo Making Strong Early Impressions
ICARO Media Group
The Baltimore Ravens are faced with the task of replacing three starters from last year's offensive line, but rookies Andrew Vorhees and Roger Rosengarten are already making a positive impact during the team's rookie minicamp.
Andrew Vorhees, a seventh-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has returned to action after missing the previous season due to a knee injury. The 6-foot-6, 310-pound guard is competing for a starting job, and according to Head Coach John Harbaugh, Vorhees looks stronger than ever. Harbaugh praised Vorhees' well-trained physique, his improved footwork, and his dedication to studying the game during his year-long recovery.
Meanwhile, Roger Rosengarten, a second-round pick this year, is already displaying his athleticism and potential to secure a starting role as a rookie. As a two-year starter at right tackle for Washington, Rosengarten did not allow a single sack in the past two seasons. Although he hasn't practiced in pads yet, his remarkable footwork has caught the attention of Coach Harbaugh, who expressed satisfaction with Rosengarten's performance.
Injury concerns have also arisen during the rookie minicamp, as undrafted free agent Beau Brade, a former Maryland safety, was seen wearing a walking boot. Brade rolled his ankle during Friday's practice, and although he did not participate on Saturday, he has the opportunity to secure a roster spot as a backup safety behind Kyle Hamilton and Marcus Williams. Coach Harbaugh assured that Brade's injury is being managed to protect his biceps and predicted that he would be ready for training camp.
Cornerbacks Nate Wiggins and T.J. Tampa, who are roommates during rookie minicamp, are motivating each other as they compete for roles in Baltimore's defensive rotation. Wiggins, a first-round pick, has been in contact with veterans Marlon Humphrey and Roquan Smith for guidance as he adjusts to the faster tempo of NFL practices. Tampa expressed his motivation to improve daily and learn the defensive scheme.
Devin Leary, the Ravens' sixth-round draft pick and former Kentucky quarterback, has an opportunity to contend for a backup role behind Lamar Jackson and Josh Johnson. While Leary showcased impressive arm strength with 25 touchdown passes in 2023, his 12 interceptions raised concerns. Coach Harbaugh emphasized the importance of reducing turnovers and expressed confidence in Leary's ability to improve, given his arm talent and strong work ethic.
As the Ravens' rookies continue to make their mark during the offseason, the team is optimistic about their potential contributions and looks forward to their continued growth and development leading up to the regular season.