Ravens Training Camp Update: Injury Concerns and Rising Stars
As training camp kicks into high gear, the Baltimore Ravens faced a setback with tight end Isaiah Likely, who sustained an ankle injury during practice. It happened on his last rep in one-on-one drills as he was executing an out-breaking route. A collision with a defender forced Likely off the field, leading to concern among the coaching staff and fans alike.
Head Coach John Harbaugh later provided an update, revealing that while Likely will be out for a few weeks, the timing could be somewhat beneficial given the early stage of camp. “We’ll know more tomorrow,” Harbaugh said. “He rolled his ankle, foot area, so we’ll get an MRI tomorrow and see exactly what needs to be done, but it’ll be a few weeks. It’s good that it’s this early in camp.” For a player entering a contract year, missing time can be a hurdle, but Baltimore’s depth at tight end—featuring Mark Andrews, Charlie Kolar, and Patrick Ricard—should help the team navigate this challenge while Likely is sidelined.
On a more positive note, rookie Mike Green has been making quite an impression during practice. Sporting the pads for two consecutive days has allowed the second-round pick from Marshall to showcase his physicality. Pass Rush Coach Chuck Smith was pleased with Green’s efforts, noting, “Mike is earning his stripes… He’s going out there and competing at a high level.” Known for his prowess in getting to the quarterback, Green led the FBS with 17 sacks last season and has set his sights on establishing a solid role in the Ravens’ outside linebacker rotation during his debut season.
“I would say throughout the whole pre-draft process, I was trying to prove that I can do power rushes, and I’m more of a power guy as well, on top of my speed game,” Green stated. “Being able to put on the pads has let me show what I can do.” His burgeoning skills on the field align with Smith’s assessment that fans are going to enjoy what they see from him moving forward.
Another player to watch is Odafe Oweh, who has bulked up with an added 20 pounds of muscle this offseason. As he tackles his first training camp in this new physique, Oweh has remained pleased with his movements and stamina, even in demanding weather conditions. He expressed confidence, attributing his success to the added weight: “I can use my power rush moves, and [defending] the run as well.”
Oweh, who had a career-high 10 sacks last season, is still refining his game, and Coach Smith is optimistic about his potential growth. “[Oweh] can play any position across the board when it comes to pass rushing,” he said. “He was humble, he wanted to learn, and he just developed moves. A lot of people didn’t think he would ever get to this point.”
Finally, sixth-round defensive tackle Aeneas Peebles is another rookie who has shown promise in training camp. Known for his quickness and high skill level—including 8.0 sacks over his last two seasons in college—Peebles is making a significant impression this week, demonstrating both his talent and eagerness to improve. Coach Smith has been vocal about Peebles’ potential, calling him “lightning quick” and expressing excitement about what lies ahead for this young player.
As the Ravens navigate the early days of camp, it’s unmistakable that the blend of established players and promising rookies is setting the stage for an engaging preseason. While injuries like Likely’s pose challenges, the team’s strength in depth and the emergence of new talent provide a bright outlook for the upcoming season.
