The closer the Baltimore Ravens get to roster cutdowns, the more valuable every rep and every ounce of film becomes. For depth pieces and fringe players, contributing in multiple phases of the game can often be the difference between making the roster and searching for another opportunity. That reality has made guys like LaJohntay Wester one of the more intriguing players to watch throughout training camp and the preseason. Yes, he's one of those guys who should make the roster, but these days, he's looking up at Ja'Kobi Lane on the depth chart. Lane didn't play in the second preseason game, yet another sign that his standing with the team grows firmer. Wester saw some snaps, but to his credit, the latter made the most of them, contributing in all three phases of the game. He has flashed as a returner. He continues to show growth as a receiver, and on Saturday in the preseason win, he scored Baltimore's lone touchdown. He also racked up 29 yards on his only kick return and 31 yards on two punt returns. Jesse Minter likes what he's seeing from LaJohntay Wester Following Monday's practice, Ravens head coach Jesse Minter spoke with the media. He was asked about Wester's development. His answer highlighted growth in multiple areas of the game.
"I think [LaJohntay Wester] has made really good strides. This guy flies off the ball on offense. His speed really shows up on the tape. [It] really shows up when he is running routes."
For a player whose athleticism was one of his biggest selling points entering the league, hearing his speed continue to stand out at the NFL level is encouraging. While the return ability has drawn attention, Minter's comments suggested Wester's value extends beyond special teams. Wester can also be used as a weapon for passing attacks. According to Minter, that development has been noticeable. His emphasis on Wester's decisiveness is particularly important.
"I think he is becoming a lot more decisive as a returner. He has done a really good job in the punt return game, and I think there are still a couple things to see and learn on the kickoff return game."
Returners often possess speed and athletic ability, but success frequently comes down to quickly identifying lanes, making confident decisions, and committing without hesitation. Minter's comments suggest Wester is becoming more comfortable in those situations as camp progresses. Versatility could strengthen Wester's case for the roster. At this stage of the preseason, every roster spot matters. Coaches are no longer evaluating players solely on talent. They are evaluating value. Wester's ability to contribute on offense while simultaneously competing for return duties could make him increasingly difficult to overlook. That reality aligns with another message Minter has repeated throughout camp. Players do not make roster decisions easier for coaches by talking about their potential. They make them difficult by consistently producing when opportunities arrive. Wester appears to be doing a good job of all of the above. There is still work to be done before the regular season begins, particularly in the kickoff return game, but the trajectory is clear. The rookie's speed continues to show up, his confidence as a returner appears to be growing, and if his role within the offense keeps expanding, Wester's continuing growth could be fun to watch. This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Jesse Minter praises LaJohntay Wester’s development