The cutdown at receiver became a little more complicated when second-year prospect Justin Harper botched two more passes Thursday. Harper's continuing issues might have opened a door for Yamon Figurs, a return specialist his first two seasons with the Ravens.
Figurs disappointed in the return game last season, and the Ravens brought in free agent Chris Carr. But this preseason, he has fought his way back into the discussion because of his work at receiver. He has three catches for 64 yards in the preseason.
"It's me knowing my steps, getting in and out of my routes quicker," Figurs said of his improvement as a receiver.
Furthermore, the bone he broke in his foot during summer drills is completely healed. And the fact that Lardarius Webb has fumbled two kick returns this preseason could push Figurs ahead of Harper.
In Atlanta, Figurs fielded punts for the first time since a 12-yard return in the preseason opener (he had two fair catches against a punter with good hang time).
"I have no idea," Figurs said of his roster status. "Just wait and see what happens."
Notes: : It was an uneasy day for many of the Ravens on the bubble Friday. Even kicker Steve Hauschka, who appeared to close the deal as Matt Stover's successor with kicks of 33 and 46 yards, was concerned. "A lot of crazy stuff can happen," Hauschka said. "So I'm a little nervous, but I think I've done what I had to do out there, and hopefully the coaches have the confidence in me to name me the guy." ... The Ravens can formalize their eight-man practice squad Sunday.
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The Ravens must cut their roster to 53 players by 4 p.m. today. For news, go to baltimoresun.
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