By Tiffany Williams –
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh met with the media following Friday’s minicamp practice, discussing the team’s progress, veteran additions, and development of younger players as the team heads into the break before training camp.
Harbaugh said he was pleased with the intensity and execution of Friday’s indoor session after storms forced the team off the outdoor field.
“I thought we had an excellent practice,” Harbaugh said. “The guys are really locked in, trying to do everything right. You appreciate that as a coach.”
With minicamp wrapped up, rookies will remain in Baltimore for another week of strength and conditioning work before players report for training camp later this summer.
One of the biggest headlines coming out of camp was the arrival of cornerback Jaire Alexander, who was acquired shortly after quarterback Lamar Jackson publicly expressed his desire to bring him in.
“It was good timing,” Harbaugh said, adding that discussions had been taking place behind the scenes for some time. “I had a chance to sit down with him today. He’s excited to be here, and we’re excited to have him. I think it made Lamar happy, made everybody happy.”
Harbaugh emphasized that the culture of the organization has been a draw for several veteran players, including wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and former Raven Odell Beckham Jr., both of whom signed short-term deals with the team.
“All the guys who’ve come in here have wanted to be here,” Harbaugh said. “They’re the kind of guys that see themselves as Ravens. If you like football and love everything about it, you’re going to like it here.”
On the field, veteran kicker competition continues between rookies Tyler Loop and John Hoyland. Harbaugh praised the efforts of both, noting that the team has worked to simulate pressure scenarios to prepare them mentally and physically.
“They’re working on some trajectory things,” Harbaugh said. “They’re trying to change the trajectory of the ball a little bit from what they’ve done so it’s more consistent in certain conditions.”
Harbaugh credited special teams coach Randy Brown for leading the technical development and said his own background in special teams helps him support young players as well.
“I’m the guy that pats them on the shoulder and kicks them in the butt at the same time,” Harbaugh joked.
Harbaugh also highlighted wide receiver Devontez Walker’s strong minicamp, particularly a difficult sideline catch made during Friday’s session. “Every day, all he does is show up and go 100 miles an hour,” Harbaugh said. “He’s got a chance to be really good.”
When asked about defensive coordinator Zach Orr’s growth from his first year to now, Harbaugh praised Orr’s humility, intelligence, and leadership.
“It’s a big job, being the defensive coordinator, and he does it really well every day,” Harbaugh said. “Very charismatic guy, really smart, good teacher. All those things I knew, and you see it every day.”
Looking ahead, the Ravens will hold joint practices with the Colts and Commanders during training camp. Harbaugh said the team is focused on the next steps, but he’s eager for the opportunity to compete against different teams.
“I have so much respect for Coach [Dan] Quinn and the whole organization,” Harbaugh said. “We played them last year, so we know what kind of team they are. It’ll help us be a better team.”
The Ravens are expected to report to training camp in late July.
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