One of the most intense battles of Baltimore Ravens training camp is among the defensive backs. The team’s cornerback room is loaded with talent, and they will have to ultimately part ways with a couple of recent late-round draft picks. At safety, two second-year players are battling for a bigger role in 2025, and the winner of the competition could kick the other off the roster.
Sanoussi Kane and Beau Brade are entrenched in a heated fight for Baltimore’s third safety spot. After 2024 breakout safety Ar’Darius Washington injured his Achilles over the offseason, the path is open for Kane or Brade to snatch key snaps on the Ravens defense this year. So far in training camp, it sounds like Brade has the upper hand.
Following Wednesday’s practice, Brade made his name known. He showcased his hard-hitting play style, making the biggest hit of the day, and is impressing off the field, as well. In his press conference following practice, Head Coach John Harbaugh highlighted Brade’s efforts this offseason. He was elated with the steps the University of Maryland product has taken over the past few months. Harbaugh said:
“Beau is flying around, he’s playing really well. He’s the first guy in the weight room in the morning. I saw him in there this morning; he was lamenting the plays he didn’t make, so you appreciate that mindset. But, very determined, very serious, doing a good job, really good.”
Beau Brade is taking major strides this offseason
Just a year ago, Brade was making his name heard in camp as a rookie. However, while he earned a spot on the initial 53-man roster, he barely saw the field in 2024. He played just 11 snaps on defense, registering two tackles and turning in a 59.2 overall grade per Pro Football Focus.
Like Kane, he was mainly a special teams contributor. He appeared in 11 contests showcasing his abilities on the punt and kick units. That is the usual case for rookies on a Harbaugh-led team, though. It is always the second year when late-round picks and undrafted signings find the chance to make their mark.
While the selection of Malaki Starks will likely only allow Brade to be a rotational piece if he does earn a more crucial role, he will still have a chance to showcase the traits that brought him to Baltimore following the 2024 NFL Draft. The versatility of Starks and Kyle Hamilton might also help Brade find his way into the lineup more as a deep safety.
Once preseason rolls around, Brade will have a huge chance to separate himself from the rest of the defensive back competition, but for now, he is already making his presence known.