Baltimore Ravens named ESPN's Sports Humanitarian Team of the Year

The Baltimore Ravens earned ESPN’s Sports Humanitarian Team of the Year for 2026, capping a season of impact both on and off the field.

What happened?

The Ravens were honored by ESPN for their community work, which spans Baltimore and reaches beyond the NFL. The team’s efforts include programs tied to education, health, and social justice, all while maintaining a competitive roster led by Head Coach Jesse Minter.

Why it matters for Baltimore Ravens

This award shines a light on the Ravens’ off-field leadership. The organization’s initiatives—like the Brigance Brigade Foundation support and ALS awareness—show how the team uses its platform for good. Players like Lamar Jackson, ranked No. 69 on the 2026 NFL Top 100, embody that commitment both in performance and community engagement.

What comes next?

The Ravens enter the 2026 season with momentum. They sit 9th in the American Football Conference with an 8-9 record, riding a late-season L1 streak. Their next game is a Week 1 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts on September 13, 2026. On the field, a revamped defense under Minter aims for a rebound, while rookies like Ja’Kobi Lane and Elijah Sarratt look to build on strong offseason showings.

Behind the scenes of the honor

The Ravens’ community work includes a recent project in an iconic Baltimore park, where players and staff rolled up their sleeves. The team also leaned into digital innovation, with Sr. Director of Digital Strategy & Innovation Dave Lang running the World Marathon Challenge to raise funds for ALS research. Meanwhile, new radio voice Kyle Youmans settled into his role, bringing fresh energy to broadcasts.

The Ravens’ 2026 season is just getting started, but their impact—on and off the field—is already making headlines.