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Minter's Preseason Gamble: Play Starters?
16 Jul
Summary
- New Ravens HC Minter faces tough call on playing veteran starters.
- John Harbaugh became cautious after Dobbins' 2021 preseason injury.
- Joint practices offer controlled game-like reps for starters.
Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter is set to make a pivotal decision about the team's preseason strategy, specifically concerning the participation of veteran starters. This comes after a notable shift in philosophy by former coach John Harbaugh, who became more cautious with veteran playing time following J.K. Dobbins' season-ending knee injury in the 2021 preseason.
Lamar Jackson, the team's star quarterback, has not played in a preseason game since that 2021 contest. Minter's approach is expected to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, with the potential for starters to gain valuable experience and build chemistry with new schemes and teammates.
The decision involves balancing the need for game readiness against the risk of preseason injuries. While some coaches, like Sean McVay, opt for extreme caution, others, like Andy Reid, utilize exhibition games for key players. The Ravens' recent history of slow starts further complicates the choice for Minter and his staff.
To mitigate injury risks while still allowing for controlled game-like scenarios, Minter has scheduled joint practices with the Minnesota Vikings and the Washington Commanders. These sessions are designed to provide starters with opportunities to face opposing defenses in a more regulated environment before potential participation in preseason games.
