Ravens Rookie Class Brings Iowa Ties, High Stakes Into Preseason Opener
The Baltimore Ravens will get their first extended look at the 2026 rookie class when they host the Philadelphia Eagles in Saturday night's preseason opener. With 27 rookies on the active roster, the game offers a critical opportunity for undrafted players and draft picks alike to prove they belong in the NFL.
For Iowa football fans, one name stands out: Aaron Graves, the former Iowa Hawkeyes defensive lineman who finished his college career with 15.5 sacks. Graves ranks 13th on this preseason evaluation, and his path to a roster spot runs through a crowded defensive line room in Baltimore.
What is at stake for the Ravens rookies in the preseason opener?
Baltimore selected 11 players in April before signing 19 undrafted rookies. Quarterback Diego Pavia, offensive tackle Trevonte Sylvester and cornerback Matthew McDoom have since been waived, leaving 27 rookies competing for limited roster spots.
This ranking considers training-camp performance, projected role, roster security and potential opportunities during the regular season. It is not strictly a measurement of long-term potential or draft position. The order could change significantly once the rookies begin competing under game conditions.
Iowa's Aaron Graves faces stiff competition on the defensive line
Graves brings more pass-rushing production than many undrafted interior defenders, but he must prove that his effort and hand usage can overcome a deep defensive line competition. The former Hawkeye will need to show leverage, power and movement ability during late-game repetitions to separate himself from the pack.
His college production at Iowa makes him an intriguing developmental prospect, but the Ravens have considerable veteran depth at defensive tackle. Preseason snaps will be crucial for Graves to demonstrate he belongs.
Who are the top-ranked rookies heading into the game?
Wide receiver Ja'Kobi Lane enters the opener as the Ravens' highest-ranked rookie. The 6-foot-4 third-round pick has generated the most training-camp momentum, repeatedly producing highlight catches and displaying the catch radius, body control and strong hands that made him a draft target.
Lane's practice performances have created legitimate expectations about his ability to claim the No. 3 receiver role behind Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. Saturday night provides his first opportunity to validate that promise against an opponent capable of disrupting his routes.
Second-round pick Zion Young ranks third. The edge defender has the physical profile to contribute immediately, with power, length and a relentless playing style that should translate against both the run and pass. Baltimore does not need Young to become an immediate starter, but he must show he can earn rotational snaps and generate consistent pressure.
First-round guard Vega Ioane sits at No. 2. Drafted 14th overall to become a foundational member of Baltimore's offensive line, Ioane has the clearest path to a starting role. The former Penn State guard will play against Philadelphia while several established starters rest, giving him his first live opportunity to handle unfamiliar NFL defensive linemen.
How are the undrafted rookies competing for roster spots?
Several undrafted players have positioned themselves well. Quarterback Joe Fagnano's opportunity improved significantly when Skylar Thompson was placed on injured reserve. The undrafted signal-caller must now compete with recently signed Austin Reed for the third spot behind Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley.
Nick Dawkins, an undrafted center from Penn State, entered a competition featuring Ethan Pocic, Danny Pinter and Jovaughn Gwyn. A steady preseason could make him an appealing developmental lineman even if he does not win the starting job.
Elijah Sarratt, a wide receiver from Indiana, caught 15 touchdown passes during his final college season and has the size and physicality to become a reliable possession target. He has been overshadowed by Lane's spectacular summer, but the opener offers a chance to remind the Ravens they added two promising receivers in the middle rounds.
What about the specialists and position battles?
Ryan Eckley enters the opener as Baltimore's only punter, giving him a direct path to the starting job. The sixth-round selection averaged 48.5 yards per punt during his final season at Michigan State and offers several directional techniques designed to make returns difficult.
Adam Randall's transition from Clemson wide receiver to NFL running back remains one of the rookie class's most compelling stories. His 6-foot-3, 240-pound frame provides a combination of size and receiving ability that Baltimore does not have elsewhere in the backfield. Pass protection, ball security and vision will be important against Philadelphia.
Cornerback Chandler Rivers has seen more opportunities after injuries to Nate Wiggins and Marlon Humphrey. The rookie has the speed, competitiveness and ball skills to compete for a role in the slot.
Why does this matter for Iowa football fans?
Graves represents Iowa's connection to this rookie class, but the broader story is about competition and opportunity. The preseason opener will reveal which rookies can translate practice performance into game-day production, and those evaluations will shape Baltimore's roster decisions in the weeks ahead.
For the Ravens, the game against Philadelphia is the first real test of a rookie class that could define the team's future. For the players, it is a chance to prove they belong.