When the Baltimore Ravens took the field for organized team activities (OTAs) on Tuesday, it wasn't the familiar stars like Lamar Jackson or Roquan Smith who grabbed the headlines. Instead, cornerback Keyon Martin and inside linebacker Jay Higgins IV--both undrafted free agents from the 2025 class who earned their way onto the roster last season--stood out by each making interceptions during practice at the team's training facility on May 26, 2026.
Martin secured an interception during the competitive 11-on-11 team drills, showcasing his instincts and anticipation against the Ravens' first-team offense. Higgins IV followed with a pick during seven-on-seven drills, demonstrating his coverage skills and football IQ. These plays underscore the ongoing development of two players who have quietly become key depth contributors.
Keyon Martin: Rising Ballhawk in the Secondary
Martin's interception came during a high-intensity segment of practice, highlighted by his ability to read the quarterback's eyes and break on the ball accurately. Entering his second season, Martin has progressed significantly from fighting to secure a roster spot last year to now delivering impactful plays in front of coaches and teammates.
The Ravens' cornerback room features established talents such as Marlon Humphrey, Chidobe Awuzie, and first-round pick Nate Wiggins, alongside veterans like T.J. Tampa and Amani Oruwariye. Despite this competition, Martin's football intelligence and aggressive approach have earned him consistent repetitions and the attention of the defensive coaching staff.
While Martin may not possess elite speed, his anticipation and positioning have repeatedly allowed him to make plays on the ball--a valuable trait in a defense that prioritizes turnovers. His interception during an 11-on-11 drill reflected this awareness, reinforcing his case for expanded roles in nickel and dime packages or core special teams duties.
Jay Higgins IV: From Undrafted to Defensive Playmaker
Jay Higgins IV displayed his versatility and coverage ability by intercepting a pass during seven-on-seven drills. Known for his fundamentally sound play and relentless motor, Higgins has earned the respect of general manager Eric DeCosta and head coach Jesse Minter as a reliable linebacker capable of handling diverse responsibilities.
Last season, Higgins played a rotational role behind All-Pro linebacker Roquan Smith and the versatile Trenton Simpson. He contributed on base defensive packages and special teams, where his tackling and pursuit were assets. His improved coverage skills this offseason enhance Baltimore's linebacker depth and allow defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver more flexibility in sub-packages.
The linebacker group this year is deep, with veterans like Smith and Simpson, pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson, and 2026 draft pick Mike Green. Higgins IV's continued growth into a competent coverage linebacker strengthens this talented corps and contributes to the Ravens' defensive adaptability.
The Ravens' Tradition of Finding Undrafted Talent
Baltimore has a storied history of developing undrafted free agents into productive NFL contributors. Players such as Priest Holmes, John Urschel, Kristian Welch, and Patrick Mekari exemplify the team's ability to identify and nurture talent beyond the draft.
Martin and Higgins IV exemplify this pipeline's success. Neither was given a roster spot as a gift; both earned their places through hard work, determination, and consistent performance. Their demonstrated ability to make plays even during offseason practices against a roster featuring stars like Lamar Jackson, Derrick Henry, and Mark Andrews signals their potential for expanded contributions.
Internal development of players on rookie contracts is invaluable to the Ravens' long-term success and salary cap management. Depth players like Martin and Higgins IV provide insurance against injuries and allow coaching staffs greater tactical flexibility.
Implications for Baltimore's Defense
The Ravens' defense finished near the top of the league last season under coordinator Anthony Weaver, returning much of its core. OTAs serve as the foundational phase of preparing for the season, and seeing players such as Martin and Higgins IV make impactful plays sends a strong message across the locker room.
Turnovers are a hallmark of the Ravens' defensive philosophy, and practicing to create takeaways builds the instincts and habits that translate to game day. Martin's interception in 11-on-11 drills highlights his quick processing and confidence in his reads. Higgins IV's pick during seven-on-seven drills signals that he is evolving beyond run support into a capable coverage presence.
Competition for roster spots remains intense and will intensify during training camp, but performances like these earn attention and could influence decisions when the roster is finalized.
Looking Ahead
The Ravens have several weeks of OTAs remaining before mandatory minicamp and the upcoming training camp grind. For Martin and Higgins IV, the challenge is to maintain this trajectory, demonstrating their value and forcing the coaching staff to allocate significant roles as the season approaches.
Baltimore's identity centers on tough, smart, and versatile defenders. Having two undrafted players from the same class making strides in May underscores the organization's effectiveness in scouting, player development, and fostering a competitive culture.
While Tuesday's practice was only one day in the offseason, it marked another step forward for Keyon Martin and Jay Higgins IV--affirming that their breakthrough last year was no fluke and that their best football lies ahead. These emerging defenders could well become crucial components of the Ravens' defense in 2026 and beyond.