Ravens' Undrafted Rookies Lead Preseason Snap Counts
In the Ravens' second preseason game, undrafted rookie offensive tackle Gerad Lichtenhan played a team-high 45 snaps, while quarterback Joe Fagnano took 28 snaps. Both players have impressed and are candidates for practice squad spots. The team gave fewer snaps to other rookies compared to the opener.
Undrafted rookie tackle Gerad Lichtenhan again led Baltimore's offensive line with 45 snaps against Minnesota, following a full-game workload in the opener. Quarterback Joe Fagnano took 28 snaps and held up well under pressure, strengthening his case for a practice squad role. Rookie head coach Jesse Minter reduced playing time for most first-year players compared to the first exhibition, though linebacker Jay Higgins logged a team-high 56 defensive snaps and undrafted Dominic DeLuca added 47. Wide receiver Devontez Walker saw 30 snaps, while the team's third- and fourth-round receivers played sparingly. Tight end Josh Cuevas led his group with 33 snaps and 46 receiving yards.
This story may signal how NFL teams increasingly rely on undrafted rookies to fill depth roles, particularly on practice squads, as roster economics tighten. Fans and analysts could read the reduced rookie snap counts as either cautious management or a quiet evaluation of veteran options. The situation involving Rashod Bateman's legal troubles may also shape public perception of the franchise's handling of player conduct, potentially influencing fan sentiment and organizational decision-making as the regular season approaches.