The Baltimore Ravens‘ 13-3 preseason win over the Minnesota Vikings is one they’d like to improve on.
One area was the offense, which didn’t create the explosive plays it did in Week 1 against the Philadelphia Eagles. The unit only had 242 yards of offense and went 3-of-13 on third down.
One other concern with the offense had Ravens fans wondering what was going on. Their young talent had a quiet day, but there’s no reason to worry.
Baltimore Ravens’ Rookies Struggled Against Vikings, But They Should Be Okay
GettyBALTIMORE, MD – AUGUST 15: Ja’kobi Lane #6 of the Baltimore Ravens dives for a receiving touchdown against Michael Carter II #35 and Kelee Ringo #7 of the Philadelphia Eagles during the first half of the preseason game at M&T Bank Stadium on August 15, 2026 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
Ebony Bird Ravens analyst Connor Burke talked about two rookies who had quiet days for the team against Minnesota: wide receivers Ja’Kobi Lane and Elijah Sarratt. Lane was targeted twice with 1 reception for 9 yards, while Sarratt also got 1 catch for 3 yards.
Throughout training camp, Lane has made highlight plays all over the field. That’s why Burke isn’t too concerned about Lane not getting as many receptions.
“Lane was pulled off the field earlier in Week 2 than in Week 1, hitting the bench late in the first half. He played 17 offensive snaps versus Minnesota, while he saw 27 versus Philadelphia. That could be a sign that he barely has anything left to prove.”
In Week 1 against the Eagles, Lane caught a 16-yard touchdown pass. That play itself was enough for everyone to believe that he is WR3 in Baltimore entering the 2026 regular season.
As for Sarratt, he needs to get more attention, but Burke again won’t stress too much about him. He believes the rookie is doing what he needs to do.
“The 2026 fourth-rounder has a steep uphill climb if he wants reps this year. His production hasn’t been as high as Lane’s. Regardless, he’s shown plenty of potential.
Sarratt’s showing against the Eagles spoke for itself. He led the team with 6 catches for 66 yards, displaying toughness at the catch point, superb concentration, and electric route-running chops for a guy with a 6-foot-2, 210-pound frame. Clearly, when the pass protection holds up and he’s given enough reps, he can dominate.”
Ravens Are Still in A Really Good Spot With Rookie Receivers
GettyOWINGS MILLS, MARYLAND – JUNE 09: Elijah Sarratt #13 of the Baltimore Ravens runs with the ball after a catch during Baltimore Ravens Mandatory Minicamp at Under Armour Performance Center on June 09, 2026 in Owings Mills, Maryland. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
Lane has all the skills to eventually be the second-best option in this passing attack. He might even move up on the depth chart depending on the Rashod Bateman situation.
Sarratt will need to be more patient this season. If injuries occur, he could see the field early, but he will have time to develop as a receiver.
The potential between Lane and Sarratt is too good to ignore. They will eventually end up being Zay Flowers‘ second and third in line with the pecking order as pass catchers. One bad game can’t define their whole 2026 season, especially since it is just preseason.
Ravens Urged to Avoid Panic Button on Rookies After Vikings Game