Practice Report: Devontez Walker, Several Backup Standouts Shine Brightly as Ravens Conclude First Week of Training Camp with Momentum and Depth Questions

As the Baltimore Ravens wrapped up their first week of training camp, all eyes were initially on the expected stars—Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and Roquan Smith. But as the week unfolded, it was the unheralded names who turned heads. In particular, rookie wide receiver Devontez “Tez” Walker made a lasting impression, along with several backup players who showcased their potential in critical reps across both offense and defense.

Walker’s performance, alongside those of fellow backups such as quarterback Josh Johnson, running back Justice Hill, and linebacker Josh Ross, provided encouraging signs for head coach John Harbaugh and his staff. More than just roster depth, these players are competing for real roles this season—some even potentially stealing time from established veterans.

Let’s break down what stood out during the week’s final sessions.

Devontez Walker Ascends

There’s been plenty of buzz around rookie wide receiver Tez Walker since the Ravens selected him in the fourth round out of North Carolina. Known for his elite speed and vertical route tree, Walker’s transition to the pros has been closely watched.

During Thursday and Friday’s sessions, Walker exploded into the spotlight.

Lamar Jackson hit Walker on several deep routes during 7-on-7 drills, including a 45-yard bomb down the right sideline that left second-year cornerback Kyu Blu Kelly trailing by several steps. But it wasn’t just the go routes—Walker also flashed an improved ability to find soft spots in zone coverage, catching a 15-yard curl and a slant over the middle in successive plays during the red zone period.

“He’s coming along fast,” said Jackson after practice. “He’s learning the playbook, and you can see he’s getting more confident. He’s got that burst, man.”

Walker’s development is crucial for a Ravens offense seeking more consistent explosive plays. With Rashod Bateman still managing reps and Zay Flowers locked in as WR1, Walker could carve out a meaningful WR3 role by the end of August if this momentum continues.

Backup QB Battle: Josh Johnson’s Steady Hand

Veteran journeyman quarterback Josh Johnson made his case to remain the team’s primary backup with a poised, accurate showing in the two-minute drill Friday.

Facing the second-team defense, Johnson completed six of eight passes on a simulated game-winning drive, including a crisp 18-yard seam pass to tight end Charlie Kolar and a 12-yard out to undrafted rookie Malik Washington.

He capped the drive with a perfectly placed 7-yard touchdown to Kolar in the back of the end zone. His command of the huddle and chemistry with the second-team offense impressed observers.

“Josh just brings that calm,” said quarterbacks coach Tee Martin. “In a high-pressure moment, he’s not rattled. That experience shows.”

With Tyler Huntley sidelined by a mild hamstring issue, Johnson has a real opportunity to secure the backup role for good. The team values his leadership and savvy, especially with a quarterback room led by a former MVP in Jackson who needs steady support behind him.

Justice Hill’s Versatility on Display

While much attention has gone to newly acquired Derrick Henry and returning contributor Gus Edwards, Justice Hill quietly continues to be the most versatile back in the room.

Hill lined up as a running back, slot receiver, and even motioned out wide on several formations during the final day of Week 1. In 11-on-11 drills, he caught a 25-yard wheel route touchdown from Jackson, beating linebacker Trenton Simpson with ease.

He also ran tough between the tackles on multiple occasions, showing that he’s not just a third-down back.

“Justice is such a smart, reliable player,” said offensive coordinator Todd Monken. “We’re going to find ways to use him, especially in matchups where we can get him on a linebacker or safety.”

Expect Hill to continue playing a significant role, even if Henry is the bell cow. His ability to flex into different formations adds another layer to Monken’s growing offensive scheme.

Josh Ross Solidifying Depth at Linebacker

Linebacker Josh Ross may not be a household name, but he made a name for himself with physicality and smart reads in multiple drills this week.

Ross blew up two screen plays during the situational red zone scrimmage and recorded a “sack” on a delayed blitz during Thursday’s install. His instincts and play recognition seem to be improving, and special teams coordinator Chris Horton has praised his contributions on kick and punt units.

Ross is fighting for a backup role behind starters Roquan Smith and Patrick Queen, and if the Ravens carry five linebackers, he’s making a strong case to be the fourth.

“He’s just always around the ball,” said inside linebackers coach Zachary Orr. “Those are the types of guys we want. He plays fast and smart.”

Other Notable Standouts

• Rookie CB T.J. Tampa: The fourth-round pick out of Iowa State intercepted a tipped pass from Johnson and nearly came down with another on a sideline fade. His length and fluid hips were on display.

• Charlie Kolar: With Isaiah Likely getting rest, Kolar caught everything thrown his way and showed improved route precision. His chemistry with Johnson and Jackson alike was clear.

• Malik Hamm: The undrafted defensive end recorded multiple pressures during Friday’s pass-rush period and continues to look like a practice squad lock with a potential promotion later in the year.

Coach Harbaugh’s Perspective

When asked to summarize the first week of training camp, Coach Harbaugh praised the energy, discipline, and development across the board.

“We’ve seen guys step up,” Harbaugh said. “The depth is being built every day. From Tez [Walker] to some of the vets, everyone’s competing. We’ve got a long way to go, but I’m encouraged.”

The coaching staff has taken a more strategic approach to managing veterans’ workloads, allowing younger players and backups more quality reps. That has helped accelerate the growth of players like Walker, Ross, and even recent free agent signings.

What Comes Next

The Ravens are expected to host joint practices with the Washington Commanders next week, giving the team its first real chance to test its depth against an unfamiliar opponent. For players like Walker, Hill, Johnson, and Ross, these joint sessions will be critical opportunities to solidify their spots before preseason begins.

Walker, in particular, will likely get a heavy dose of first-team snaps if Bateman remains limited. He’ll need to maintain his upward trajectory and prove that he can separate against NFL corners outside of the Ravens’ own defense.

As for Hill and Johnson, each practice rep continues to be part of a bigger competition picture—not just for roster spots, but also for meaningful roles in the 2025 campaign.

The Ravens’ first week of camp concluded not with a bang from the stars, but with the steady rise of unsung heroes. Devontez Walker may have stolen the headlines, but it was a week full of hope for the backups and bubble players striving to make a name for themselves in Baltimore.

If the first week is any indication, depth may quietly become one of this roster’s greatest strengths in the pursuit of another deep playoff run.