Despite the recent performance, Minter remains committed to Loop as the starter for the upcoming season opener against Indianapolis on September 13. The coach emphasized that the addition of Moody is a precautionary measure to ensure the team is prepared for all scenarios, rather than an immediate signal of a change in the kicking hierarchy.
Managing the kicking competition
Loop’s preseason statistics concluded at 5-of-8, a 62.5% success rate that included misses from 49, 51, and 58 yards. These struggles have drawn extra attention given that Loop is attempting to move past a high-profile miss—a 44-yard attempt that ended the Ravens' season eight months ago. Throughout the spring and training camp, the Ravens had previously shown significant faith in Loop by opting not to bring in any rival kickers for competition.
The arrival of 26-year-old Jake Moody adds a layer of experience to the practice squad. Moody, a 2023 third-round draft pick, has previously spent time with the San Francisco 49ers, Chicago Bears, and Washington Commanders. Since 2023, he has converted 64 of 82 field goal attempts, maintaining a 78% success rate. Minter noted that he is familiar with Moody from their shared time at the University of Michigan in 2022, where Minter served as the defensive coordinator.
Injury updates and roster management
Beyond the kicking situation, Minter provided an update on Pro Bowl defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike. After missing the final 15 weeks of the previous season due to a neck injury that required surgery in April, Madubuike is expected to return to action early in the new campaign. The team opted against placing him on injured reserve, a move that would have mandated a four-game absence, signaling optimism regarding his recovery timeline.
