The preseason means little in terms of wins and losses, but it can go a long way toward helping a player make a team. Here are three players that helped their cause and three others that hurt themselves in the Ravens’ 23-15 loss to the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday.
HELPED
DERRICK MARTIN: The cornerback followed a strong training camp with a solid game, which included returning a touchdown 22 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. Martin, however, did not practice on Monday because of an injured shoulder.
Stay informed.Stay ahead.
Join Washington Examiner for unlimited access to the news, analysis, and commentary that matter most.
Already a member? Log in
ADAM BERGEN: The tight end had a team-high six catches for 35 yards against the Vikings as he continued to make a strong case to earn a roster spot. Bergen will have to maintain his momentum, as Pro Bowler Todd Heap and second-stringer Daniel Wilcox returned to practice on Monday missing the past few sessions with injuries.
TOM ZBIKOWSKI: The rookie cornerback from Notre Dame had five tackles and a sack. The third-round pick also showed his toughness when he opted to field a punt instead of calling for a fair catch in the fourth quarter. Zbikowski, an accomplished boxer, took what looked to be a knockout blow as soon as he caught the ball, but did not fumble.
HURT
CHAD SLAUGHTER: The free-agent offensive lineman provided good blocking early, but was completely overmatched by defensive end Jared Allen, who bullied by him and crushed quarterback Troy Smith for a sack. His chances of making the team took another blow when Adam Terry returned to practice Monday after missing most of training camp with a sprained ankle.
FRANK WALKER: The free-agent cornerback was supposed to provide depth at a position ravaged by injuries last season. But he had a hard time with man coverage against the Vikings, which included allowing receiver Martin Nance to catch a 32-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter.
ONEIL COUSINS: The rookie offensive tackle has shown he still has a lot to learn about playing in the NFL. The third-round pick left quarterback Kyle Boller exposed as defensive tackle Letroy Guion pounded Boller, causing him to fumble.
[email protected]
