BALTIMORE — The Baltimore Ravens opened their 2026 preseason with an impressive performance Saturday night, defeating the Philadelphia Eagles 24–7 at M&T Bank Stadium.
The victory also gave new Ravens head coach Jesse Minter his first win leading the team. Baltimore controlled most of the game despite resting nearly all of its projected starters. The Ravens led 7–0 at halftime, added a field goal in the third quarter and put up 14 more points in the fourth. Philadelphia didn’t score until 2:14 remained.
Rookies Make an Immediate Impact
One of the biggest stories of the night was Baltimore’s young talent.
Rookie wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane continued the momentum he generated during training camp, catching a 16-yard touchdown and finishing with three receptions for 38 yards.
Rookie quarterback Joe Fagnano also made a strong impression in his NFL preseason debut. He completed 22 of 28 passes for 224 yards, one touchdown and one interception.
Rookie receiver Elijah Sarratt led Baltimore with six receptions for 66 yards, while the Ravens’ young pass catchers collectively provided encouraging signs about the team’s offensive depth.
Ravens Defense Nearly Pitches a Shutout
Minter built his reputation on defense, and his first preseason game as Baltimore’s head coach provided an early glimpse of what his unit could look like.
The Ravens kept Philadelphia off the scoreboard until the final 2:14 and held the Eagles to 0-for-9 on third down. Baltimore accumulated 440 total yards and 31 first downs while limiting Philadelphia’s offensive production.
The result was particularly encouraging considering Baltimore gave the night off to all but two projected starters.
It’s Preseason — But Baltimore Has Reasons to Be Encouraged
The final score doesn’t count toward the regular-season standings, and many of Baltimore’s biggest stars weren’t on the field. But preseason football is about evaluating depth, rookies and players fighting for roster spots.
On that front, Baltimore had plenty to like.
The first game of the Jesse Minter era featured productive young quarterbacks, promising rookie receivers and a defense that nearly kept Philadelphia scoreless.
Final: Baltimore Ravens 24, Philadelphia Eagles 7.
Baltimore’s next preseason test comes Saturday, August 22, on the road against the Minnesota Vikings.
