Baltimore’s training camp just kicked off, and even with established stars everywhere you look, general manager Eric DeCosta has some seriously tough calls ahead for that final 53-man roster. The competition is fierce, meaning some big names could be left off the squad while hungry young players claw their way on.
Quarterbacks and Running Backs: Managing Workloads and Risks
Lamar Jackson, obviously, is still the franchise’s centerpiece. Tyler Huntley slots in as the experienced backup, a guy who knows the system cold and has that crucial connection with Lamar. But here’s the kicker: they might only carry two quarterbacks on the active roster. Skylar Thompson and rookie Joe Fagnano are battling it out for a developmental practice squad spot, but if Baltimore rolls with just two QBs, it’s a real risk, even if they can elevate a practice squad guy on game days. That move means sacrificing a position player, and in a tight roster battle, every spot counts.
Then there’s the running back situation. Derrick Henry is the undisputed foundation of that rushing attack. But is his workload heavy enough to warrant keeping four backs? Justice Hill is a critical piece, especially if he’s fully recovered from that neck injury that ended his 2025 season. His pass protection and receiving skills are huge on third downs. Behind him, Rasheen Ali and Adam Randall are going toe-to-toe for the No. 3 spot. Ali’s got NFL experience and can return kickoffs, while Randall is a converted wide receiver with a massive 6-foot-2, 225-pound frame and some serious upside as both a runner and pass catcher. Keeping both, as this projection suggests, gives them critical depth and special teams options, which is smart insurance against injuries.
The Receiver Room Heats Up As A Veteran Gets The Boot
Wide receiver is where things get really interesting after Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. Those two are locked in, no doubt. But the competition behind them for limited offensive snaps is insane. Rookies Ja’Kobi Lane, a 6-foot-4 outside threat with a huge catch radius, and Elijah Sarratt, a polished route-runner versatile enough to play anywhere, are both vying for opportunities. Then you’ve got Devontez Walker, heading into his third season, who absolutely needs to turn his size and speed into a dependable role.
The final spot in this projection? It goes to LaJohntay Wester, largely because of his blazing quickness and punt-return ability. And here’s the tough part: that means veteran Chris Moore, who just returned to Baltimore, is the most difficult omission, despite his special teams experience. It’s brutal, but that’s training camp. Plus, a few key defensive players are on the PUP list, including Nnamdi Madubuike, Travis Jones, John Jenkins, Teddye Buchanan, Adisa Isaac, and Bilhal Kone. They’re expected back before the regular season, but it just adds another layer to these complex roster decisions. DeCosta and the coaching staff have their work cut out for them, and how they play these next few weeks will define the team moving forward.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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