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Ravens Rookie TEs Breakout (And Blackout) In Good Way In Preseason Debut

PUBLISHED Aug 16, 2026, 12:56 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 31

Center 100%

Sources: 31

The Baltimore Ravens defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 24-7 in their preseason opener, highlighted by an unexpected breakout performance from their rookie tight end room. Entering the matchup under intense scrutiny following veteran Mark Andrews' recent struggles and the free-agent departures of key depth pieces, rookie tight ends Matt Hibner and Josh Cuevas answered early-camp concerns. Hibner led the charge with five receptions for 61 yards, including a team-best 29-yard catch on the second play from scrimmage. Undrafted rookies Lucas Scott and Ty Pezza also contributed as the tight end group caught all nine of their targets for 101 yards. Operating under offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, the young unit successfully executed downfield patterns and play-action looks. Head coach Jesse Minter praised the performance, which provides vital depth and momentum as Baltimore seeks reliable offensive weapons beyond wide receiver Zay Flowers for the upcoming NFL season.

By Daniel Hayes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On March 15, 2026, backup tight ends departed during heavy free agency shifts.
On April 25, 2026, Baltimore drafted tight ends Matt Hibner and Josh Cuevas.
On August 10, 2026, coaches noted rookies struggled during intense training camp sessions.
On August 15, 2026, Matt Hibner described feeling overwhelmed like drinking firehose water.
On August 16, 2026, teams rested starting quarterbacks for the opening preseason match.
On August 16, 2026, Matt Hibner caught five passes for sixty-one yards.
On August 16, 2026, rookie tight ends caught all nine targeted passes successfully.
On August 16, 2026, Baltimore defeated the Philadelphia Eagles twenty-four to seven points.
In September 2026, rookies will compete for primary backup roster positions.
In January 2027, developed depth will impact postseason offensive personnel packages.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Immediate US impact provides preseason momentum for Baltimore's offensive roster.
Possible long-term US impact: Long-term US impact secures reliable developmental depth for future seasons.
Most affected groups: Most affected groups include Baltimore Ravens coaches, fans, and tight ends.
Reader Priorities: Readers should prioritize official team announcements and verified beat reporter coverage.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 31
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 31

Explain Framing

Left: Evidence was insufficient to determine a distinct left-leaning framing. Center: Reports focused neutrally on statistics, game outcomes, and player quotes. Right: Evidence was insufficient to determine a distinct right-leaning framing.