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McCarthy injured in Ravens preseason; tests decide August 28

8/23/2026

Summary

J.J. McCarthy Injured

J.J. McCarthy left the preseason game against the Ravens after sustaining an injury.
Coach Kevin O'Connell said McCarthy was “a little hobbled” and exited in the first quarter.
McCarthy completed 5 of 10 passes for 81 yards and was sacked once.
Further medical tests this week will determine if McCarthy can play the preseason finale on August 28.

Summary

Ravens Defense Dominates

Ravens defense allowed only ten points across two preseason games, indicating strong early-season form.
Keondre Jackson recorded seven tackles, a sack and a quarterback hit against the Vikings.
Undrafted rookie Ethan Burke forced a fumble by tackling Jeshaun Jones after an 11-yard reception.
36-year-old rookie free safety Silas Walters intercepted a pass at the Baltimore 18-yard line.
Coach Jesse Minter praised the defense’s momentum after joint practices with the Vikings.

History

Historical Context

In 2000, the Baltimore Ravens’ defense, led by Ray Lewis and coach Brian Billick, allowed a league-lowest 165 points, fueling a Super Bowl win. That unit featured rookie safety Kim Harris with three interceptions and veteran Rod Woodson’s 85 tackles, showcasing depth across the secondary. Current preseason reports of J.J. McCarthy’s injury and the Ravens’ early defensive vigor mirror the 2000 emphasis on health and aggression. Thus, franchises now prioritize medical evaluations and defensive schematics, aware that early-season resilience can dictate playoff paths, as the 2000 Ravens proved.

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J.J. McCarthy Injured

J.J. McCarthy left the preseason game against the Ravens after sustaining an injury.
Coach Kevin O'Connell said McCarthy was “a little hobbled” and exited in the first quarter.
McCarthy completed 5 of 10 passes for 81 yards and was sacked once.
Further medical tests this week will determine if McCarthy can play the preseason finale on August 28.

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