The Baltimore Ravens need to see many of their rookies defy the NFL learning curve in 2026. A few of them could be placed in starting roles, and with all the offseason losses, others will need to reveal themselves as valuable rotational contributors early on.
The tight end position likely needs that development the most. After losing Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar in free agency, the Ravens replaced them with two day-three picks: Matthew Hibner and Josh Cuevas. One or both could have sizable roles this season, and thus far, it sounds like the advantage is leaning in Cuevas’ favor.
In a piece for BaltimoreRavens.com, Ryan Mink outlined potential roles for each of Baltimore’s 11 selections in the 2026 NFL Draft. For Cuevas, Mink made it known he was one of the best rookies during OTAs and highlighted why Cuevas may have the edge over Hibner.
"“Cuevas was one of the most impressive rookies and a frequent target during Organized Team Activities. Cuevas and Hibner could end up competing for snaps, and Cuevas' versatility and strengths as a blocker works in his favor, especially after the departure of fullback Patrick Ricard in free agency.”"Ryan Mink
Josh Cuevas might hold early edge in Baltimore Ravens’ rookie TE battle
It might be too early to get invested in the rookie battle between a fourth-rounder and a fifth-rounder. Hibner and Cuevas’ performances in training camp and preseason will obviously matter so much more than Baltimore’s offseason program. And you could make the case that neither will have too big a role in year one, as Mark Andrews holds it down as the starter. However, it’s hard to ignore Cuevas’ hot start to his professional career.
While there haven’t been many headlines surrounding Hibner, Cuevas made an early statement. He was one of the standouts of OTAs, and that was just as a pass catcher. That’s an area where Cuevas can certainly contribute, and an area that the Ravens will need at tight end due to Andrews' apparent regression. However, as Ryan Mink mentioned, the Alabama product shines in his versatility. He's more than just a receiver.
Cuevas hasn’t been able to show that versatility to its fullest potential just yet. Along with being a threat in the passing game, he can do damage as a blocker. It’s just that those blocking opportunities haven’t really revealed themselves. Sure, there were some in OTAs and minicamp, but without the pads and contact, guys who show out in the trenches like Cuevas weren’t able to stand out as much as they could’ve. That will change in the coming months. We could see Cuevas take significant strides.
As for Hibner, there’s still a good chance that he can end up being the lead backup behind Andrews. His athleticism can make him the matchup nightmare that the Ravens once had in Isaiah Likely. He’ll need to start picking up the pace, though. It sounds like Cuevas has taken a clear lead.
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