The Baltimore Ravens opened 2026 training camp with a sense of urgency that has been palpable from the first whistle. After a disappointing finish to last season that saw the Ravens fall short of expectations, the organization has retooled the roster with a clear purpose, and the early days of camp have provided a glimpse of what this team is capable of when everything comes together.
"The defense is flying around," head coach John Harbaugh said after the third practice of camp. "The energy, the communication, the physicality, it is all there. We have a group that takes pride in being hard to play against, and that is showing up every day."
The pass rush, which was inconsistent last season, has been bolstered by the return of a veteran edge rusher who missed significant time with an injury in 2025. His presence on the field has transformed the defensive line, creating one-on-one opportunities for the interior pass rushers and forcing the offense to account for him on every snap.
The skill positions have been bolstered by the addition of a free agent wide receiver who provides a vertical threat the Ravens have lacked. His speed and catch radius have been on display in early camp, where he has gotten behind the defense on several deep balls and shown the kind of playmaking ability that can transform an offense.
The AFC is loaded with contenders, and the Ravens are acutely aware of the challenge that awaits. The Kansas City Chiefs remain the team to beat, with Patrick Mahomes playing at an MVP level. The Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, and Houston Texans all have the talent to compete for a conference title. The Ravens will need to navigate a difficult schedule and stay healthy to secure a playoff spot and make a run.
The Ravens have three preseason games scheduled, with the opener set for next week. Harbaugh has indicated that the starters will play sparingly in the first preseason game but will see more action in the second and third contests as the team prepares for the regular season opener.
