The Baltimore Ravens’ starters are set to face an outside opponent for the first time this preseason. After sitting out the initial two preseason games, the Ravens will travel to Green Bay, Wisconsin, on Wednesday for a joint practice against the Packers on Thursday.
This will provide MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson an opportunity to take some reps against Green Bay’s starting defense. Jackson expressed excitement about the chance to compete against a new opponent, saying, “Some competitiveness, just not going against my guys, finally getting to go against someone else. It’s going to be great to see how we are against other opponents.”
Many NFL teams prefer joint practices to preseason games for preparing their starters while minimizing injury risks. The final roster decisions for the Ravens will be made following Saturday’s preseason finale at Lambeau Field, with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m.
While Jackson is eager to play, he acknowledges the importance of staying healthy for the regular season, stating, “I’m very competitive, so I want to play, but at the same time, I know why coach is keeping us off the field. I’d rather play in the regular season than just going out there and things happen.”
This joint practice will also be crucial for Jackson to build chemistry with his offense, especially as they face a strong Green Bay defense that reached the NFC Divisional Round last season. The Ravens’ offensive line, which lost three starters from last season, is an area of concern. With Ronnie Stanley and Tyler Linderbaum as the returning leaders, Jackson believes the young group is progressing well.
The Packers, led by quarterback Jordan Love, running back Josh Jacobs, and wide receiver Christian Watson, will provide a tough test. Defensively, Green Bay features standouts like linebackers Quay Walker and Isaiah McDuffie, defensive end Rashan Gary, and cornerback Jaire Alexander.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh is eager for the challenge, emphasizing the value of practicing against a quality opponent like Green Bay. “If both teams come in with the same idea, there are two good football teams that are trying to take advantage of the opportunity to practice against another good football team and get a good football practice in, that’s what you want,” Harbaugh said. “We are excited to go against Green Bay. We think they are that kind of group, a good football team, a proven team.”
