When the Ravens open their preseason, quarterback Lamar Jackson will not be in the lineup.
Head Coach Jesse Minter confirmed that Jackson won't play when the Ravens host the Philadelphia Eagles at 7 p.m. on Saturday at M&T Bank Stadium. Minter plans to rest other starters as well, giving players battling to earn roster spots and playing time an opportunity to shine.
"Some established players (are) not playing in this first game," Minter said. "Good opportunity for a lot of the guys. It's an individual basis I would say based on the experience and how many snaps they've played."
Jackson has not played in a preseason game since 2021, and the Ravens have played few of their starters in recent preseasons.
The Ravens have scheduled three joint practices this preseason that will give starters an opportunity for reps against another team. Baltimore will travel to Minnesota next week for joint practices on Wednesday and Thursday prior to a preseason game on Aug. 22 against the Vikings. The Ravens will host the Washington Commanders in a joint practice on Aug. 26.
"We will have three joint practices which I view in a high regard the work we'll be able to get there in a more controlled environment for specific positions, especially," Minter said.