Storylines to watch for in Ravens vs. Redskins preseason game

With Lardarius Webb still sidelined and other players like Rashaan Melvin and Tramain Jacobs dealing with different ailments, there have been extended opportunities provided for other cornerbacks to get looks. However, the Ravens are still waiting for another reliable and consistent corner to emerge from a group that includes Asa Jackson, Tray Walker, Quinton Pointer and Cassius Vaughn. They’ll get plenty of chances against Washington’s receivers.

The third preseason game marks the starters longest – and often last – outing before the regular-season opener. Thus, it provides the greatest opportunity for injury. Already down a couple of starters and several top reserves, the Ravens need to make it out of the game relatively unscathed.

Left tackle Eugene Monroe (hand) and left guard Kelechi Osemele (Achilles) aren’t expected to play and the Ravens may be without top reserve tackle James Hurst (concussion) as well. That would likely leave Jah Reid and John Urschel as the top fill-ins. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh is confident that the group can do the job, but he won’t hesitate to pull Joe Flacco early if the quarterback is consistently in harm’s way.

Asa Jackson will get the first shot to return kicks and punts and a good performance would solidify his status as the team’s primary returner. However, the coaching staff continues to give a host of players an opportunity on returns, hoping that one of them will seize the job. A big return against the Redskins could go a long way in influencing Harbaugh’s decision.