The Baltimore Ravens’ preseason kicked off in style against the Indianapolis Colts, with plenty of attention on how the team’s depth would show, especially with dynamic rookies like Colorado wide receiver LaJohntay Wester.
In his very first game, Wester delivered a big highlight with a punt return touchdown that fired up the fans and drew an excited reaction from a former Ravens quarterback, who made sure to recognize coach Deion Sanders in his comment.
Robert Griffin III Hypes Deion Sanders As LaJohntay Wester Scores In His First NFL Game
The preseason often brings mixed emotions. While big plays can boost a player’s chances of making the final roster, mistakes can just as easily cost them their shot at the league.
For Wester, the start could not have been better.
In his pro debut, the former Colorado wide receiver scored a punt return touchdown, leaving the Colts’ coverage team behind in a play that showcased his athleticism and burst.
One of the most excited by Wester’s highlight was Robert Griffin III, a former Ravens quarterback who has long endorsed the work of Coach Prime. Sanders coached Wester in 2024 during an electrifying year for Colorado’s offense, which also featured Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter.
LAJOHNTAY WESTER SHOWING YOU COACH PRIME AND THEN COLORADO BOYS AINT NOTHING TO PLAY WITH 🔥pic.twitter.com/aM0kt5opjD
— Robert Griffin III (@RGIII) August 7, 2025
Griffin’s comment about Sanders reflects the view of analysts who see him as a coach capable of building a culture that will produce dynamic, gritty players for years to come, even if they enter the NFL with low draft stock, as was Wester’s case.
Drafted in the sixth round by Baltimore, Wester is fighting for a roster spot this season. His strong start suggests he could earn early opportunities as a kick returner and special teams contributor, one of the best ways for a receiver with his skill set to see the field early in his career.
In his lone season at Colorado under Sanders, Wester recorded 931 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in 13 games, managing to stand out even in an offense that also featured Hunter, the Heisman Trophy winner.
Sanders’ work as a coach has drawn widespread praise in recent years, from his days at Jackson State to turning Colorado into one of the most talked-about programs in the country, despite the school not being a historical powerhouse in college football.
Wester is competing for a backup role behind starters Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and DeAndre Hopkins, with Tylan Wallace and Devontez Walker as his main challengers. That makes every snap and how each player capitalizes on their chances crucial to watch during Baltimore’s preseason.
