Baltimore Ravens Stock Report: Lamar Jackson Buzz Cools

CANTON, OH – AUGUST 02: Hayden Hurst #81 of the Baltimore Ravens makes a reception against Jonathan Anderson #52 of the Chicago Bears in the first quarter of the Hall of Fame Game at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium on August 2, 2018 in Canton, Ohio. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

The Baltimore Ravens almost let it slip away, but they managed to hang on for the 17-16 victory in the 2018 Hall of Fame game over Chicago.

It wasn’t a pretty affair, but then again no preseason games ever are. This time of year is more about player evaluation. In this context, the Ravens came away with plenty of positives and negatives to work with as training camp moves forward. So how do things shake up for the latest stock report?

One could say it was a defensive showcase for Baltimore as a number of defenders stood out as keys to helping win the game. Meanwhile, the offense struggled in a number of areas, particularly one the team was hoping to see more out of given the favorable circumstances. All things considered, it was a game that proved there’s a lot to like and plenty of work to do.

Up: Kamalei Correa

The Ravens defense led the way to a victory in this game and the man who was unquestionably their MVP was linebacker Kamalei Correa. Baltimore had high hopes for the former 2nd round pick coming into this season and he delivered a star-like performance with three sacks, an interception, and a forced fumble. He was everywhere. Given how rich this team is already in their front seven, his ascent can make their defense even more dangerous in 2018.

Down: Lamar Jackson

Considering the hype that was around him since getting drafted, people were expecting more out of Lamar Jackson in this game. Especially given the fact he was playing mostly third and fourth string guys by the time he got in during the second half. For him to go 4-of-10 for 33 yards and an interception wasn’t an ideal showing. That said he did have what turned out to be the winning touchdown pass and showcased some of his trademark mobility. There’s no reason to panic.

Up: Bennett Jackson

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It’s going to be difficult for a defensive back to make the roster this year. Baltimore has added a ton of draft picks to their secondary the past two years. Not to mention Tony Jefferson. It will take a serious message from somebody who wishes to alter the status quo. Bennett Jackson, the free agent they picked up last season took a step in that direction with three tackles and a sack on the night. He was active around the football a lot. A good start. Can he keep it going?

Down: Breshad Perriman

The former 1st round pick doesn’t have that draft status to protect him anymore. He’s been haunted by injuries for years and it’s clear this season may be his last chance. Baltimore sent a clear message when they invested heavily at wide receiver this offseason, meaning Perriman has to step up his game. Having an ugly drop that cost them a first down early in the game was not the way to do it. Hard as it is to say, Perriman is looking like one of Ozzie’s few glaring mistakes.

Up: Hayden Hurst

On the flip side, the retiring GM was made to look good by his other 1st round pick. Tight end Hayden Hurst wasn’t ultra-productive in the game but he cashed in the touchdown that proved to be the game-winner. It was a reminder of how dangerous he can be in the passing game, something the Ravens have been searching for the past few years. If he keeps that up he can become a key weapon for Joe Flacco this season.

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