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The Ravens wrapped up their second week of voluntary organized team activities Friday in Owings Mills, and for the second straight day former NFL coach Jon Gruden was roaming the sideline during the two-hour session. Gruden and Baltimore coach John Harbaugh go back a long way, with the two having worked on Andy Reid’s staff in the late 1990s when Reid was the coach of the Philadelphia Eagles. The former assistants have kept in touch since and recently ran into each other in Tampa, Florida, where Gruden lives and where Harbaugh’s daughter had a lacrosse game. Harbaugh and his offensive coordinator Todd Monken and tight ends coach George Godsey also spent time down there with Gruden last offseason. While Gruden didn’t get a copy of the playbook or a script — “You can only go so far; you’ve got to draw the line somewhere,” Harbaugh said — he did speak to the defense Thursday and the offense Friday. The former coach of the Oakland/Las Vegas Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers also provided Harbaugh with his insights. “He studied us, and basically the message was, ‘If I was game-planning against you and your defense, what would I do and how would I attack you guys?’” Harbaugh said. “And he didn’t just stop there. He watched our offensive guys, he talked to our offensive guys, looked at all the players and had something for each player. “He’s just phenomenal and very, very detailed. [He’s] a great teacher, too.” Gruden’s coaching career also came to an unceremonious and controversial end when, in October 2021 an NFL investigation into the Washington Football Team for workplace misconduct revealed emails that Gruden had sent between 2011 and 2018 to then Washington general manager Bruce Allen that contained racial, misogynistic and homophobic slurs. In his second stint with the Raiders at the time, Gruden resigned shortly after the emails were reported by the New York Times. Gruden won 122 games as an NFL coach, including a Super Bowl title with the Bucs in the 2002 season. After resigning in 2021, Gruden spent 2023 as a consultant for the New Orleans Saints and is currently employed by Barstool Sports. He had no problem speaking up during the Ravens’ practices. “He was grinding pretty good on some guys,” Harbaugh said. “He was letting them know where they can get better, which I respect. I think a great coach is not afraid to tell people where they can improve, and doesn’t every player want to know that?” Lamar Jackson absent again Since showing up for the second voluntary OTA session last week, Lamar Jackson hasn’t been seen since. Not that Harbaugh is too worried about it. “I’m not taking any position on it or judging it, or whatever,” he said. “Lamar, the day he was out of here, played great. I could see he was in great shape, threw the ball great, made the right reads, knew the offense in an excellent kind of way. I thought he was fantastic. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, shown at OTAs in May, wasn't at OTAs on Friday. Coach John Harbaugh isn't concerned with Jackson's absence at the voluntary workouts. (Kim Hairston/Staff) “And when he comes back and practices, when that happens, I expect him to play at that level. That’s what you measure. … I’m not measuring the attendance. I mean it’s a voluntary camp, so I’m not measuring that. I love being out here, and I think all the players do. And when Lamar’s out here, I promise you, he loves being out here. You could see it when he was out here. So, he’s my guy. I love him, and I can’t wait to just get into this season and get going.” It’s also not dissimilar to what Jackson did last year, when he was in attendance for OTAs early, absent the middle week and then returned during the final week. He then had career highs in passing yards (4,172) and touchdown passes (41) while directing an offense that became the first to surpass 4,000 passing and 3,000 rushing yards in the same season en route to a 12-5 record and AFC North title. Jackson struggled in the playoffs with two turnovers in a divisional round loss to the Buffalo Bills, but it would be a stretch to pin that on voluntary practices taking place in June when he nearly won a third NFL Most Valuable Player Award for his performance during the regular season. That said, if history is any indication, there’s a chance Jackson could be in attendance next week when Baltimore wraps up OTAs with four more practices between Monday and Thursday. Related Articles Ravens RB Derrick Henry gets motivation from unlikely source: Adam Sandler Ravens react to Aaron Rodgers joining Steelers: ‘It’d be great to pick off A-Rod’ Ravens OTA observations: Jon Gruden invited to practice, speaks to defense Ravens’ ‘DB expert’ Chuck Pagano couldn’t wait to come out of retirement Aaron Rodgers agrees to deal with Steelers, ending months-long dance Other observations • Defensive tackle Travis Jones made the play of the day, batting a pass from backup Cooper Rush up in the air and leaping to haul it in for an interception on the first play of full team work. • It was also one of several interceptions on the day, with the veteran Rush and second-year quarterback Devin Leary both struggling with throws that were either well off-target or easy targets for defenders. Rookie safety Malaki Starks and second-year cornerback Nate Wiggins snagged two of them. • Second-year wide receiver Devontez Walker has enjoyed a nice spring thus far. Thursday, he had a pair of contested catches against Wiggins and fellow cornerback T.J. Tampa and made a pretty over-the-shoulder catch in the end zone on a pass from Leary. • The practices are voluntary, but the intensity for some players and coaches is not. That includes tight Mark Andrews, who let Rush hear about it after the quarterback had three straight incompletions at one point, while Harbaugh was in the ear of a couple of players, including Tampa at one point after yanking him out of one seven-on-seven session. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley also had words with Jones after the opening interception. • With temperatures into the 80s under a toasty midday sun, Broderick Washington and Jones were two players who had to take a knee on the sideline at one point. Guard Daniel Faalele, who struggled to stay on the field Thursday, was a little better Friday. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Ravens quarterback Cooper Rush works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley, from left, works out with Carson Vinson during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens Sr. Defensive Assistant/Secondary coach Chuck Pagano, right, watches CB work out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens runningback Keaton Mitchell speaks with media after OTA workout at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens head coach John Harbaugh gets ready to speak with media after OTA workout at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens coach John Harbaugh speaks with media members Friday. Harbaugh detailed how former NFL coach Jon Gruden's presence at practice this week was beneficial for the team. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins speaks with media after OTA workout at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens kicker John Hoyland works during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)June 6, 2025: Ravens’ works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens kicker John Hoyland works during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)June 6, 2025: Ravens’ works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens kicker Tyler Loop, right, works out with long snapper Nick Moore, left, and holder Jordan Stout during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens kicker Tyler Loop works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens kicker Tyler Loop works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens kicker Tyler Loop, right, works out with holder Jordan Stout during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens safety Malaki Starks works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens safety Malaki Starks works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens safety Malaki Starks works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Show Caption1 of 20Ravens quarterback Cooper Rush works out during OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff)Expand View the full article

Derrick Henry doesn’t have a lot left to prove. The Ravens running back put up historic numbers in high school, won a national championship and the Heisman Trophy at Alabama and ranks 19th on the NFL’s all-time rushing yards list. About the only thing missing from his resume, like his equally accomplished quarterback Lamar Jackson, is a Super Bowl ring. But there’s something else that will be driving the 31-year-old Henry this season as he seeks to become the first player in league history to rush for 2,000 yards twice in his career: A role in an Adam Sandler movie. Come again? In a recent appearance on “The Dan Patrick Show,” Henry revealed that his favorite actor is Sandler, the 58-year-old star of everything from “Saturday Night Live” to beloved comedies such as “Happy Gilmore” to thrilling dramas like “Uncut Gems.” Patrick then issued a challenge: If Henry gets 2,000 yards again this year, he’d use his connections to get him in a Sandler film. “Cool, say no more. Remember that now,” said Henry, who nearly eclipsed that total with 1,921 yards and 16 touchdowns in his first season in Baltimore after nearly a decade with the Tennessee Titans. “Say no more. The bet is on. No pressure at all.” On Friday, Patrick posted a video of him calling up Sandler — or “Sandman,” as he calls him — to make the request and Sandler video chatting with Henry at a recent practice in Owings Mills. “2,000 yards-plus this year gets you not only in the movie, but we have a nice dinner together and talk about Dan Patrick’s facial hair and how hard it is for him to grow it,” Sandler says on the call. “I love ya, keep it up.” Patrick then showed a direct message from Henry to thank the longtime sportscaster and radio personality for connecting him with Sandler. The surprise came just a few weeks after Henry signed a two-year extension with the Ravens worth $30 million. “Dan you’re a real one!” Henry posted in response Friday on X. “@AdamSandler is da [goat emoji: Greatest of All Time] I appreciate the extra motivation!” Henry does have some acting practice already, having appeared in commercials for State Farm, Old Spice and Pepsi, the latter of which premiered before a huge audience ahead of last season’s NFL season opener between the Ravens and Kansas City Chiefs. What movie will it be? Patrick joked that it could be “Grown Ups 3” or “Happy Gilmore 3” but doesn’t know for certain. Sandler has acted in 102 films, been a producer in 37, a writer in 23 and an executive producer in 26, according to Letterboxd, but he’s never directed a movie. Perhaps that’s his next project, with Henry playing the starring role. Have a news tip? Contact sports editor C.J. Doon at cdoon@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/CJDoon. Related Articles Ravens OTA observations: Harbaugh talks Gruden invite, Jackson absence Ravens react to Aaron Rodgers joining Steelers: ‘It’d be great to pick off A-Rod’ Ravens OTA observations: Jon Gruden invited to practice, speaks to defense Ravens’ ‘DB expert’ Chuck Pagano couldn’t wait to come out of retirement Aaron Rodgers agrees to deal with Steelers, ending months-long dance View the full article

The AFC North already features two quarterbacks on a Hall of Fame trajectory: Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow. The Pittsburgh Steelers added a third star to the division on Thursday, agreeing to a one-year deal with Aaron Rodgers. The 41-year-old Rodgers is 3-0 as a starter against the Ravens in his 20-year career, although he’s only played Baltimore once since 2013. The four-time NFL Most Valuable Player missed the Ravens’ trip to Green Bay in 2017 because of a broken right collarbone but led the Packers to a dramatic 31-30 win at M&T Bank Stadium in Week 15 of the 2021 season. With star quarterback Lamar Jackson out with a sprained ankle, backup Tyler Huntley nearly led the Ravens all the way back from a 31-17 deficit, but his 2-point conversion pass in the final minute fell incomplete. While that loss was the third of six straight for the Jackson-less Ravens as they dropped from an AFC-best 8-3 to missing the playoffs, it was a memorable game for Rodgers, who threw three touchdown passes to tie Brett Favre on the franchise’s all-time list and lead Green Bay to its third straight NFC North title. “That’s why he’s a Hall of Famer,” then-Ravens defensive back Anthony Averett, a special teams contributors thrust into the starting lineup that day because of mounting injuries, said of playing Rodgers. “He can put the ball where you can’t get to it, but [only] the receiver [can], really.” After surprisingly being picked late in the first round of the 2005 NFL draft, Rodgers also got his most playing time as a rookie against Baltimore. Entering in relief of Favre during Baltimore’s 48-3 win in Week 15 that season, Rodgers completed 8 of 15 passes for 65 yards and an interception while being sacked three times. His 36.8 passer rating that day is tied for the fourth-worst of his career. In four total games against Baltimore, including wins over quarterback Joe Flacco and coach John Harbaugh in 2009 and 2013, Rodgers has completed 62.7% of his passes for 911 yards with seven touchdowns and four interceptions while being sacked 10 times. “We’ve always respected Aaron Rodgers. He’s a Hall of Fame quarterback,” Harbaugh said during the Ravens’ voluntary practice in Owings Mills on Friday. In Pittsburgh, the aging star found a team in desperate need of help quarterback. The Steelers’ struggles at the position were especially discernible against Baltimore last season. Russell Wilson threw for 422 yards against the Ravens’ defense in the regular season, including an 18-16 victory in Pittsburgh in Week 11 that pushed the Steelers to an AFC North-leading 8-2, but he struggled down the stretch and into the postseason. The Ravens then beat Wilson and their archrivals, 34-17, in Week 16 en route to winning a second straight division title and crushed them again, 28-14, in the AFC wild-card round, handing Pittsburgh its fifth straight loss and sixth in a row in the postseason. Both Wilson and Week 1 starter Justin Fields departed in the offseason for the New York Giants and New York Jets, respectively, leaving a gaping hole on the roster. The Steelers brought back veteran Mason Rudolph and drafted Ohio State’s Will Howard in the sixth round, but neither were considered a strong contender to start the season. Enter Rodgers. Related Articles Ravens OTA observations: Jon Gruden invited to practice, speaks to defense Ravens’ ‘DB expert’ Chuck Pagano couldn’t wait to come out of retirement Aaron Rodgers agrees to deal with Steelers, ending months-long dance READERS RESPOND: Some Ravens fans feel stadium renovations cater to wealthy Ravens sign WR Rashod Bateman to 3-year extension: ‘Change the narrative’ After suffering a torn Achilles tendon in his first game with the Jets in 2023, Rodgers returned and played 17 games last season, throwing for 3,897 yards with 28 touchdowns and 11 interceptions while ranking 25th among quarterbacks with a 48.0 QBR. The Jets went 5-12 with him as a starter, which included midseason firings of coach Robert Saleh and general manager Joe Douglas, and moved on from the veteran quarterback in the offseason after hiring Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey to lead a new era. Despite rampant speculation swirling for weeks about his future, Rodgers waited to sign with the Steelers until late in the offseason. He told “The Pat McAfee Show” in April that his attention was focused on helping people in his inner circle who were “battling some difficult stuff” and that he didn’t want to decide until he knew he could fully commit. He’s expected to show up for mandatory minicamp next week. If he remains healthy, Rodgers’ first appearance against Baltimore will come Dec. 7 at M&T Bank Stadium. The teams will then face off in the regular-season finale on Jan. 4. If all goes according to plan, perhaps that game will have major playoff implications. The Ravens would welcome that. “It would be great to pick off A-Rod,” Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins said. “It’s going to be great facing him.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Jane at sjane@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/Sam_Jane230. Kenneth K. Lam / Baltimore SunThe Ravens' Justin Madubuike sacks then-Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers during a 2021 game at M&T Bank Stadium. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) View the full article

Chuck Pagano and Jon Gruden, back on an NFL field. The former head coaches each have more than 20 years of experience in the league, posting a combined record of 170-155 in the regular season with eight postseason victories. Pagano reached the AFC championship game in January 2015 with the Indianapolis Colts, while Gruden won Super Bowl 37 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in February 2003. On Thursday, they were in much different roles during the Ravens’ voluntary practice in Owings Mills. After a four-year break from coaching, Pagano joined Baltimore in the offseason as a senior secondary coach. The 64-year-old previously served as the Ravens’ secondary coach from 2008 to 2010 and as defensive coordinator in 2011. “I never really stopped thinking about coaching,” Pagano said. “This was probably the only opportunity that would get me off the couch.” Meanwhile, Gruden was invited to practice by Ravens coach John Harbaugh. The 61-year-old Gruden donned full Ravens gear, conversing with Harbaugh and players such as left tackle Ronnie Stanley and wide receiver Zay Flowers. He spoke to Baltimore’s defense Thursday and will talk to the team’s offense Friday, according to a team spokesperson. Gruden has not coached since resigning as coach of the Las Vegas Raiders after emails he sent before being hired in 2018 contained racist, homophobic and misogynistic comments. He currently works for Barstool Sports, but has previously expressed a desire to return to coaching. “I know I can help a team, I know I can help young players get better, and I know I can hire a good staff, and that’s the only thing I can guarantee,” he told CBS Sports in 2024. In 2023, Gruden also appeared at a training camp practice with the New Orleans Saints, where he talked with his former Raiders quarterback Derek Carr. Then-head coach Dennis Allen said the Saints “thought it was really beneficial for our football team.” Pagano and Gruden did not seem to cross paths Thursday. Pagano joked that he’s relieved when his access to the building is approved every day. That was the highlight of an otherwise slow day of practice, in which quarterback Lamar Jackson did not appear again but newly-extended wide receiver Rashod Bateman and Stanley returned to the field. Versatility in the secondary Pagano’s return to coaching coincides with a strong group of Ravens defensive backs. Kyle Hamilton, Marlon Humphrey, Malaki Starks and Nate Wiggins make up a solid quartet, and defensive coordinator Zach Orr called Jalyn Armour-Davis “the smartest” player in the defensive back room and said that the Alabama graduate is taking reps at safety. Orr said that Starks’ versatility at Georgia was a big reason the Ravens selected him in the first round. Hamilton is one of the biggest defensive weapons in the NFL. Humphrey can play all over the secondary. It’s a shift from the standard positions that players slotted into when Pagano previously coached, but he’s excited about the possibilities. “When you have a guy — I’m assuming you’re talking about Kyle — … Marlon Humphrey, veteran guy in the league … can play outside, can play nickel. Kyle can play deep, play deep in coverage, play man, blitz, all those kind of things,” Pagano said. “When you have chess pieces and you can move those things around, not only his football character, his skill set, his ability to do more things … You’re gonna have to have dudes like that.” Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman practices on Thursday in Owings Mills. The franchise signed Bateman to a new contract Thursday, which keeps him on the roster through 2029. (Stephanie Scarbrough/AP) Bateman, Stanley back in action After signing a three-year, $36 million contract extension, becoming the first wide receiver to secure three multi-year contracts with the Ravens, Bateman practiced on Thursday. The 25-year-old said the new deal was a validation of his ability and his breakout season in which he caught 45 passes for 756 yards and nine touchdowns. It’s a leap of faith from both the organization and player, especially after Bateman publicly complained about general manager Eric DeCosta in a since-deleted tweet in 2023. He struck a much different tone Thursday. “Whatever they want me to do, I’ll do it,” Bateman said. “I just like playing football, I’m grateful for it all. Throw me in the slot, tight end, chip block, whatever, I’ll do it. Especially now.” Related Articles Aaron Rodgers informs Steelers he plans to sign, ending months-long dance READERS RESPOND: Some Ravens fans feel stadium renovations cater to wealthy Ravens sign WR Rashod Bateman to lucrative long-term extension Former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker’s Maryland mansion to hit market Ravens WR Zay Flowers, healthy again, wants to unlock his game Kicker struggles After sixth-round rookie Tyler Loop made all six of his field goal attempts Tuesday, kicker John Hoyland missed several attempts on Thursday. Hoyland went 3-for-6, missing kicks from 56, 51 and 48 yards. He was successful from 39, 42 and 46 yards. The undrafted free agent from Wyoming seems to be behind Loop in the battle to replace former kicker Justin Tucker, who was released early last month. Fans return A swathe of Ravens season-ticket holders and nurses from Southern Maryland were in attendance at Thursday’s practice. They were able to watch the entire practice from the left side of the field, but were unable to take videos. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Jane at sjane@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/Sam_Jane230. View the full article

Chuck Pagano enjoyed the easy-going nature of retirement. He played golf, worked out and visited with his grandkids. He’d do chores around the house. But most days, by 10 a.m., he’d stare at the clock wondering what to do with the rest of his day. “Life was pretty good,” he said. “A lot of my friends were like, ‘Are you out of your mind? Why would you go back to the grind?’ You can’t replicate this. You can’t replicate the grind.” The Ravens’ new senior secondary coach didn’t agree with the idea that he got an itch to return to coaching. Pagano never truly stopped thinking about getting back on the field. It just had to be the right situation. There were offers elsewhere. But the only opportunity “to get me off the couch,” he said, was a reunion in Baltimore, where he served on John Harbaugh’s first coaching staff from 2008 to 2011. Pagano’s most recent NFL gig was as defensive coordinator for the Chicago Bears, but he retired in early 2021. He was a head coach in Indianapolis for six seasons before that. The way he stayed connected to the game in retirement was as a regular contributor on “The Pat McAfee Show,” hosted by his longtime Colts punter. “That was kind of my football fix,” Pagano said. But it only kept him in the NFL stratosphere for six months out of the year. The 64-year-old whose family told him he retired too early looked right at ease, trudging off the practice field after the Ravens’ fifth open practice of organized team activities sweating through a black long sleeve T-shirt. Like the way players have to ramp up into football shape wearing pads under the summer sun, “coaching is no different,” Pagano said. He and the Peloton bike have gotten reacquainted as he’s easing back into life as a coach. Baltimore poses a fun challenge with a secondary that has been compared to a chess board this offseason. All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton can play all over the field. As can veteran All-Pro cornerback Marlon Humphrey. The Ravens expect a similar versatility from first-round pick Malaki Starks. Second-year cornerback Nate Wiggins should build on an impressive rookie season too. That’s an intriguing cocktail for a veteran coach who defensive coordinator Zach Orr called a “DB expert.” Pagano told “The Pat McAfee Show” the phone call that pulled him out of retirement seemingly came out of nowhere. Ravens brass made the hire official in late January. It’s fair to say his nearly quarter-century of NFL coaching experience was well received. “A lot of guys went up to him — he might not know I know this,” Orr said, “but a lot of guys went up to him and asked one on one what they could work on. He had an answer for every single one of those guys. A detailed summary.” Some of those guys had plenty of tape for Pagano to parse through before giving feedback. Others hadn’t really been on the field yet, like 2024 draft picks T.J. Tampa Jr. and Beau Brade. It wasn’t just individual notes. Pagano and Orr had conversations about the highs and lows of a confounding year for the collective Ravens’ defense. Chunk yardage was their biggest hindrance, leading the NFL in explosive plays allowed in 2024. But after the bye week, when Ar’Darius Washington solidified into the second safety role, Baltimore’s defense finished near the top of the league. Washington is slated to miss a significant chunk of the 2025 season with a torn Achilles tendon. Related Articles Aaron Rodgers informs Steelers he plans to sign, ending months-long dance READERS RESPOND: Some Ravens fans feel stadium renovations cater to wealthy Ravens sign WR Rashod Bateman to lucrative long-term extension Former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker’s Maryland mansion to hit market Ravens WR Zay Flowers, healthy again, wants to unlock his game Two things stood out to the Pagano, who watched games from his couch at home. He felt like the level of communication on the back end wasn’t where it needed to be, something Orr took onus for. The other note he had was on the defensive backs’ technique, or lack thereof, on those downfield throws. Orr said Pagano noticed guys’ “eyes not right, leverage is not right or body position is not right.” This was the Pagano that Baltimore hoped to be getting. The one who felt a calling to return to the field and help contribute to a Super Bowl contender. “Juice,” “energy” and “knowledge” were the three words Orr used to describe Pagano. He’ll have less time to do chores at home. He won’t have days where 10 a.m. hits and he thinks, “Can’t start drinking. Have to wait to a certain time to start that.” Now he gets to drive into the team’s Owings Mills facility and get his fix of football work. “Every morning when I come in and it says access granted, I’m like ‘Thank you.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

PITTSBURGH — Aaron Rodgers and Mike Tomlin are taking their bromance to the next level. The four-time NFL Most Valuable Player ended months of “will he or won’t he” speculation by informing Tomlin and the Pittsburgh Steelers he plans to join the team for the 2025 season, a person with knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press on Thursday. The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity because Rodgers has not yet signed a contract. The Steelers and the 41-year-old Rodgers had been circling each other for months. Rodgers even visited the team’s facility in late March, driving in undercover in a nondescript sedan wearing a hat and sunglasses. While there were plenty of nice words from both sides in the aftermath, Rodgers didn’t rush to put pen to paper, telling “The Pat McAfee Show” in April that his attention was focused on helping people in his inner circle who were “battling some difficult stuff” and that he didn’t want to decide until he knew he could fully commit. With mandatory minicamp coming next week, Rodgers apparently finds himself in a place where he can give the Steelers his full attention. Rodgers joins a team that has been stuck in a transitional period at quarterback since Ben Roethlisberger retired after the 2021 season. Either Rodgers or Mason Rudolph — who returned to Pittsburgh on a two-year deal in March — will likely be Pittsburgh’s fifth different Week 1 quarterback in as many seasons. The Steelers have stayed competitive, up to a point anyway, amid the constant churn at the most important position on the field. Pittsburgh has reached the playoffs four times in the last five seasons, only to be quickly escorted out of the postseason in lopsided fashion each time. Justin Fields and Russell Wilson — who combined to lead the Steelers to a 10-7 record and a playoff berth last season — ended up in New York. Fields will replace Rodgers with the Jets after agreeing to a two-year deal. Wilson is heading to the Giants on a one-year contract. Those deals left Rodgers and the Steelers without any other reasonable options. Both sides have their reasons for consummating what is essentially a marriage of convenience. Rodgers hopes to author a happier ending to his Hall of Fame career after two eventful, if underwhelming, seasons with the Jets. While Rodgers is hardly a long-term solution in Pittsburgh, he is the best option left after the Steelers chose not to use one of their higher picks in April’s draft on a quarterback, instead taking a late-round flyer on former Ohio State star Will Howard. The union brings Rodgers and Tomlin — the longest-tenured head coach in major professional North American sports — together after years of what is the football equivalent of flirting. They’ve long held each other in high esteem and have enjoyed a handful of memorable on-field interactions that went viral. Last fall, they playfully nodded at each other as a sign of respect after Tomlin was forced to burn a timeout when Rodgers tried a quick snap that would have ended with the Steelers being penalized for having too many men on the field. Pittsburgh is hoping Rodgers has enough left physically to go with a football IQ that remains elite. He was solid if not spectacular last season in New York, throwing for 28 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. Yet his play on the field often took a back seat to the drama off it as the Jets cycled through coaches and limped to a 5-12 record, with Rodgers spending much of his time in New York defending comments he made on platforms like “The Pat McAfee Show.” The Steelers are no strangers to drama. If there’s been one constant since the team’s last Super Bowl appearance — a loss to Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers in February 2011 — it’s the ability to employ talented, if mercurial players. The list runs the gamut, from Roethlisberger to Antonio Brown to Le’Veon Bell to JuJu Smith-Schuster to George Pickens, traded to Dallas last month. Pittsburgh has retooled a bit in the offseason, including acquiring two-time Pro Bowl wide receiver DK Metcalf from Seattle. The Steelers quickly signed him to a new five-year deal to bring some stability (and hopefully maturity) to a wide receiver room that’s lacked both. Related Articles READERS RESPOND: Some Ravens fans feel stadium renovations cater to wealthy Ravens sign WR Rashod Bateman to lucrative long-term extension Former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker’s Maryland mansion to hit market Jim Marshall, the ‘all-time iron man’ and Minnesota Vikings Purple People Eater, dies at 87 Son of former NFL player Milton Stegall found dead in dorm room The one thing Pittsburgh hadn’t done was do the same at the most important position on the field. Tomlin and team president Art Rooney II both kept the door open for Fields and Wilson to return, only to stand by idly when Fields bolted for the Jets and make no serious attempt to retain Wilson. While the Steelers did bring back Rudolph, a season removed from leading them on an improbable run to the playoffs, he is considered a backup. The field of experienced players available eventually winnowed down to Rodgers. His arrival is a stopgap, one that Pittsburgh hopes will keep it competitive until a long-term solution arrives, most likely in the 2026 draft. Until then, Rodgers and the Steelers will try to make the best of a less-than-ideal situation of their own making. Associated Press reporter Rob Maaddi contributed to this article. View the full article

We asked readers if they’re pleased with the upcoming renovations to the Ravens’ M&T Bank Stadium. Here are the results from our online poll: No — 59% (142 votes) Yes — 34% (83 votes) I haven’t noticed proposed changes — 7% (17 votes) Here’s what some fans have told us about the team (answers have been edited for clarity and grammar): Senior vice president of marketing Brad Downs’s exact quote from the Ravens’ press release on their website reads, “These renovations reflect what fans want. They want to get to the stadium earlier, have places to socialize before the game, during halftime, or afterward.” In his defense, he’s probably referencing a high-priced consultant’s survey, but the comment goes against the mantra “make the main thing the main thing” that has been established through three decades of on-field excellence. Wouldn’t you want to use the taxpayer money to improve the main thing? Like the game viewing experience for 98% of the stadium? Or something to boost home-field advantage? No, a 365-day retail store will do. — Brendan The days of watching an NFL game live as a family are gone. Today it’s all about the money. I’ve been a permanent seat license (PSL) holder since “The Bank” opened and this will probably be my last year. The NFL no longer cares about the average fan, as it changes start times for their benefit. How many families are adversely affected with games on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day? The Ravens are only following what every other team is doing so I can’t fault them for their business plan. The NFL experience, a favorite phrase for years has slowly become, the NFL’s once-in-a-lifetime experience! — Ed More of the cheap seats, and they’re not so cheap, are disappearing under this plan. — Mark Fisher Most of the upgrades are for the privileged attendees, leaving the average fan out. Taxpayer money being used for upscale improvements which the majority of Ravens fans — taxpayers — will never see. And the average fan’s ticket price always seems to go up, while the privileged can easily afford whatever the Ravens charge. Might as well just stay home and watch the game on television. — Robert They are making it too expensive for most fans. My son and I go to one or two games a year. We do not need our “game day experience” upgraded. A lot of money to benefit very few people. — Jim The concourse fans in the lower deck must walk around to get to their seats has been rendered dangerously impassible by the stealth interior additions to accommodate the uber wealthy. The taxpayers paid for it and bought the ruination of their own stadium in the process. Hopefully no one buys membership in these new lower deck “clubs” so the Ravens can eat some financial crow for once. For a team that says they care about the fans … what a crock! — Wray The new areas being added will likely enhance the fan experience until you have to use the restroom. The lack of attention to this basic need always puts a damper on an otherwise great experience. The restrooms get overrun at the main entrances and come game time you can end up missing a quarter of the game waiting in line. If the Ravens want to improve the experience, this is an improvement that needs to be made throughout the stadium, especially at the main entrances. — Drew Related Articles Ravens sign WR Rashod Bateman to lucrative long-term extension Former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker’s Maryland mansion to hit market Ravens WR Zay Flowers, healthy again, wants to unlock his game Ravens OTA observations: No Lamar Jackson means a sloppy day for offense Ravens see DeAndre Hopkins as more than just a third wide receiver Making it easier to stay at home and watch the games. Doesn’t do much for the average seat holder but it sure makes the wealthiest look even more important. — Dan Contesti The $489 million should have been used to keep the Washington Commanders in Maryland for 27 more years. Then we could see the Ravens and Commanders play in an all-Maryland Super Bowl with Lamar Jackson and Jayden Daniels, the two best NFL quarterbacks in the past 10 years! — Robin Ficker It’s all about the money. They pour money into the club levels and rip out seats for a closer fan experience, which no average fan will ever afford. They keep pushing the average fan out, and the rich will be the only ones to go to games. The same fans that just come to eat, drink and chat without caring about the game behind them. — Bryan I wouldn’t call ripping out seats of longtime PSL holders and making them move seats and locations with no say in the matter an upgrade for fans. — Chris The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To see results from previous sports polls, go to baltimoresun.com/sportspoll View the full article

Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman is staying in Baltimore for the long term. Bateman, who posted career highs in yards (756) and touchdowns (nine) last season, has signed a contract extension, the team announced Thursday morning. The deal is for three years and $36.75 million with $20 million guaranteed, a source with direct knowledge of the situation confirmed to The Baltimore Sun. Drafted 21st overall by Baltimore in 2021, Bateman had signed an extension last offseason that kept him with the Ravens through 2026. With the new deal, he’ll be in Baltimore through 2029. This article will be updated. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Related Articles Former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker’s Maryland mansion to hit market Ravens WR Zay Flowers, healthy again, wants to unlock his game Ravens OTA observations: No Lamar Jackson means a sloppy day for offense Ravens see DeAndre Hopkins as more than just a third wide receiver How Ravens OLB Odafe Oweh added 20 pounds: ‘Goal for him is to be All-Pro’ View the full article

Former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker’s 6,000-plus-square-foot home in Owings Mills is set to hit the market on Friday, with an asking price of $3.2 million. The house, a brick and stone colonial, features five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, as well as an open floor plan, large windows, an exercise room and a three-car garage. The exterior includes a grilling area, an outdoor pool with multiple seating areas and a converted patio with an outdoor fireplace. The property HOA fees are $1,874 per year and real estate taxes of $18,152 per year, the listing said. The property was purchased for $1.8 million by a limited liability corporation in 2019. The resident agent of the corporation is listed as David Miller, founder and principal of Owings Mills-based Terrain Title & Escrow Company. Miller declined to provide information regarding the corporation and its connection to Tucker. The Baltimore Sun linked Tucker to the address through property records it reviewed, as well as cross-referencing images from the property listing with his Instagram posts of his home. The listing agent, Jeremy Batoff of The Batoff Group, did not respond to requests for comment by The Sun by publication. The longtime Ravens kicker was released from his contract in May after more than a dozen Baltimore-area massage therapists accused him of sexual misconduct. The NFL’s internal investigation is ongoing and could lead to a possible suspension. Tucker has denied all allegations and has not been charged criminally. He also has not faced civil litigation. Got a news tip? Contact Stella Canino-Quinones at scanino-quinones@baltsun.com. Former Ravens kicker Justin Tucker has listed his Owings Mills mansion for sale at $3.2 million. (Kevin Richardson/Staff) View the full article

In one video posted to social media, Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson drops back and hits wide receiver Zay Flowers on a deep crossing route. In another, he connects with Baltimore’s leading receiver from last season on a deep corner. The scenes unfolded on South Florida fields last month and the sessions might seem, at least in the larger picture of where the Ravens are trying to ultimately get to, mostly inconsequential. They weren’t entirely without merit, though. “It just get our timing down,” Flowers said Tuesday in Owings Mills during voluntary organized team activities. “Talking about routes, detailing small things on routes.” Though Jackson, among others, was absent from Tuesday’s practice, the bond between the two has been obvious since Baltimore drafted Flowers 22nd overall out of Boston College in 2023. In just his second season, Flowers was selected to the Pro Bowl after posting 74 catches for 1,059 yards and four touchdowns. He was the first Ravens receiver in franchise history to be selected and the first with at least 1,000 receiving yards in a season since Marquise “Hollywood” Brown in 2021. The two clips could also perhaps be a harbinger of how the Ravens might look to deploy him this season. In 2024, Flowers had just eight catches on 21 targets at least 20 yards downfield, per Pro Football Focus. He put up nearly identical numbers (nine catches, 21 targets) his rookie year. But with the addition of DeAndre Hopkins, a three-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowl selection who has spent a dozen years carving up defenses in the short and intermediate part of the field, along with the rise of Rashod Bateman in all parts of the field, it’s possible Flowers could have his biggest impact as a deep threat. Last season, Flowers, who was targeted 116 times, ranked 19th in average depth of target (10.40 yards), per FTN Fantasy, among wide receivers with at least 97 targets. For comparison, the leader of that group was Tennessee Titans standout Calvin Ridley with an average depth of target of 15.69 yards on his way to 64 catches for 1,009 yards and four touchdowns. Three of those passes of 20 or more yards to Ridley went for touchdowns. Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers envisions "a lot more explosive plays" for him, Rashod Bateman and DeAndre Hopkins. (Nia Meyers/Staff) Flowers, meanwhile, had only one ball that traveled more than 20 yards through the air that went for a touchdown. That came in a Week 9 victory at home against the Denver Broncos in which he finished with five catches for 127 yards and two touchdowns, including one that traveled 22 yards through the air and went for 54 total yards for his longest score of the year. But even that was emblematic of his skill set after the ball is in his hands — 463 of Flowers’ 1,059 yards last season came after the catch. In fact, the majority of his targets and catches last year came in the 10-to-19-yard range and zero-to-10-yard range, followed by passes he caught behind the line of scrimmage. However Baltimore uses Flowers amid the addition of Hopkins — who, even at age 32, still possesses some of the best hands in the game along with the ability to get open — the rising star will be expected to carry a big load. “We just gotta get hm the ball more,” offensive coordinator Todd Monken said Tuesday. “He’s not only an outside receiver that has elite route running skills but he’s unbelievable with the ball in his hands, so you have a guy who fits two positions, plays two positions. “You can use him in a variety of roles to get him the ball, which allows your volume to go up. … I expect him to take another leap in terms of his consistency.” Related Articles Ravens OTA observations: No Lamar Jackson means a sloppy day for offense Ravens see DeAndre Hopkins as more than just a third wide receiver How Ravens OLB Odafe Oweh added 20 pounds: ‘Goal for him is to be All-Pro’ READER POLL: Are you happy with how the Ravens are renovating M&T Bank Stadium? All about fun: Ravens TE Isaiah Likely hosts charity softball game It helps that Flowers is again healthy after injuring his knee in the 2024 regular-season finale that resulted in him missing Baltimore’s wild-card win over the Pittsburgh Steelers and its divisional round loss to the Buffalo Bills the following week. “My knee is great,” he said, adding that it was difficult to watch the playoffs from the sideline. “I feel 100%. I feel I’m ready to go. I’m ready for the season. No limits.” Now the only question is what, if any, limits there will be with unleashing him downfield, an area that Flowers excelled in during his college days and is eager to shine in once again. “It shows I can unlock a whole other level in my game,” Flowers said. “I haven’t unlocked it yet, so once we start hitting those downfield passes more I think we’re gonna be a lot more explosive plays between me and Rashod. And now we got ‘D-Hop,’ so it should be three times as much.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens led the NFL in penalties last season, and the problem was exacerbated early on in the year, as they committed 21 offensive infractions in the season’s first four games. At organized team activities on Tuesday, the issue reared its head again. Baltimore was flagged for at least five false start penalties during team periods, including multiple by the starting group. “That’s not very good,” offensive coordinator Todd Monken said. “It’s disappointing. I watch it, I’m as disappointed as anyone, but we’re going to continue [using a hard count cadence], we’re going to continue to chart [penalties] and the guys that continue to get penalties will struggle to get on the field.” Monken said the coaching staff discussed during the offseason how the offense could become better at using multiple cadences, which are words or phrases the quarterback uses before the snap. More repetitions in the summer, despite the sloppiness, was seen as a possible solution. Star quarterback Lamar Jackson’s absence from Tuesday’s voluntary practice certainly did not help with the infractions. Jackson is one of the top signal-callers in the league and, in his third season under Monken, has complete command of the offense, so the unit was obviously uncomfortable without him. Still, it’s only the fourth OTA practice of the year and the playoff rematch against Buffalo is still 96 days away. That’s why Monken is comfortable working out the kinks when the only audience is coaches and reporters. “The reality is we can’t give in to just going to one cadence,” Monken said. “So we’ve got to work it now.” An emerging secondary piece Cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis played less than 100 snaps and appeared in just four games last season. He started just one game, against Cleveland, and allowed six receptions on seven targets, according to Pro Football Focus. But the 2022 fourth-round draft pick earned a majority of the first-team corner reps on Tuesday alongside Nate Wiggins. Armour-Davis made a couple of nice plays, including a well-defended pass breakup against DeAndre Hopkins in the red zone. With safety and nickelback Ar’Darius Washington likely to miss the entire season because of an Achilles tendon injury, Armour-Davis could slot in as the third corner behind Wiggins and Marlon Humphrey. Rush’s in No Jackson meant extended action for newly signed backup quarterback Cooper Rush. The former Cowboy went 9-5 as a starter in Dallas and signed a two-year, $6.2 million deal with the Ravens this offseason. Rush completed 8 of 11 passes during the 11-on-11 period and 1 of 3 in the red zone drill. He threw to his checkdown often and rarely looked to push the ball downfield. “He’s a pro, it’s why he’s made it in the NFL as long as he has,” Monken said. “He’s not Lamar, so he’s got to know where to go with the ball, be on time. … And being able to get the ball out and get it to the checkdown.” Ravens tight end, Zaire Mitchell-Paden during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens tight end, Mark Andrews during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens wide receiver, LaJohntay Wester during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens wide receiver, LaJohntay Wester during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens tight ends, Isaiah Likely, left and Mark Andrews during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens tight end, Isaiah Likely during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens inside linebacker Trenton Simpson goes through a drill Tuesday. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens wide reciever, Zay Flowers during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens tight ends, Mark Andrews, left and Isaiah Likely during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens offensive coordinator, Todd Monken answers questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens wide receiver, Jahmal Banks during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens wide receiver, Zay Flowers after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Ravens wide receiver, Zay Flowers answers questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers speaks to the media after OTAs on Tuesday at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken speaks to reporters on Tuesday. He said "the guys that continue to get penalties will struggle to get on the field." (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers speaks to the media after OTAs on Tuesday at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers speaks to the media after OTAs on Tuesday at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers speaks to the media after OTAs on Tuesday at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Todd Monken, Baltimore Ravens offensive coordinator, speaks after an OTAs open practice session on Tuesday at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens tight ends coach George Godsey works with Mark Andrews during Tuesday’s open OTA practice at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens linebacker William Kwenkeu takes part in a tackling drill during Tuesday's OTA at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens rookie wide receiver LaJohntay Wester fields a punt during special teams drills at Tuesday’s OTA session at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens inside linebackers coach Tyler Santucci, left, addresses players during Tuesday’s open OTA practice at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens inside linebackers coach Tyler Santucci, left, addresses players during Tuesday’s open OTA practice at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens linebacker William Kwenkeu takes part in a tackling drill during Tuesday's OTA at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens rookie linebacker Jay Higgins participates in a pass-rushing drill during Tuesday’s OTA session at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Baltimore Ravens tight ends coach George Godsey works with Mark Andrews during Tuesday’s open OTA practice at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)Show Caption1 of 27Ravens tight end, Zaire Mitchell-Paden during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Nia Meyers/Staff)Expand Flowers is healthy Perhaps no player could have felt more frustrated during last year’s playoff loss to the Bills than Zay Flowers. The wide receiver missed the contest because of a knee injury and was forced to watch from home. “I couldn’t really do nothing about [the loss],” Flowers said. Flowers said he’s fully healthy now, though, and coming off a Pro Bowl appearance, is regarded around the league as a true No. 1 option. With Flowers, Rashod Bateman, Hopkins, and tight ends Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews, the Ravens’ receiving corps seems poised for another strong year. “Top everything that I did last year, prove to everybody that say whatever I can’t do, I can do,” Flowers said. Related Articles Ravens WR Zay Flowers, healthy again, wants to unlock his game Ravens see DeAndre Hopkins as more than just a third wide receiver How Ravens OLB Odafe Oweh added 20 pounds: ‘Goal for him is to be All-Pro’ READER POLL: Are you happy with how the Ravens are renovating M&T Bank Stadium? All about fun: Ravens TE Isaiah Likely hosts charity softball game Defensive depth chart Two of the Ravens’ Pro Bowl players, safety Kyle Hamilton and defensive lineman Nnamdi Madubuike, missed Tuesday’s optional practice, which opened up some playing time for reserves. The main pieces working with the defensive starters were as follows: Defensive line: Odafe Oweh, Broderick Washington Jr., Tavius Robinson, David Ojabo and Travis Jones Linebackers: Roquan Smith and Trenton Simpson Secondary: Nate Wiggins, Jalyn Armour-Davis, Marlon Humphrey, Beau Brade and Malaki Starks Rookie edge rusher Mike Green mainly practiced with the second- and third-stringers. A strong kicking day Tyler Loop, a sixth-round draft pick who was hand-picked to succeed the recently cut Justin Tucker, made all of his field goal attempts, although none were from over 45 yards. Coach John Harbaugh said last week that Loop and John Hoyland, an undrafted free agent out of Wyoming, would alternate practice days. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Jane at sjane@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/Sam_Jane230. Ravens inside linebacker Trenton Simpson goes through a drill Tuesday. (Nia Meyers/Staff) View the full article

Todd Monken shrugged at an inquiry about adding a 12-year veteran and former All-Pro to the most potent offense in the NFL, one that returns two solidified starting wide receivers and a pair of proven pass-catching tight ends. “We’ll see,” he said. “It’s Day 4.” The Ravens signed DeAndre Hopkins to a one-year, $6 million contract in March and he’s only been out on the field with his new team for four practices during organized team activities. But there’s a consensus among the early returns on how Hopkins can, at this stage of his career, contribute to a Super Bowl contender. Hopkins is the third veteran wide receiver in three years brought in to complement the young duo of Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. Odell Beckham Jr. spent the 2023 season in Baltimore and Nelson Agholor played a similar mentor role each of the past two seasons. The former caught 35 passes for 565 yards and the latter, Monken said Tuesday, was viewed as the third receiver on the depth chart. “I don’t really see DHop as our third receiver,” Monken said. “I see it more as we have three starters.” The 32-year-old was traded after Week 7 last year from the Tennessee Titans to the Super Bowl runner-up Kansas City Chiefs. He was never a true difference-maker in that offense and finished the season with 56 catches for 610 yards and five touchdowns. But Hopkins is only one year removed from a 1,000-yard season and, in the tiniest of sample sizes from voluntary practices run less than full speed, Ravens decision-makers see signs of what he could be. “He’s going to be a big-body, contested-catch receiver for us, certainly,” coach John Harbaugh said last week. “He’s moving great.” That only sounds like coachspeak until looking at the players who clocked the top speeds from the team’s second OTA practice last week, which Hopkins posted to his Instagram story, accompanied by a jab at those who say he’s lost a step. Undrafted free agent cornerback Marquise Robinson was alone at the top of that leaderboard with 20.2 mph next to his name. Receivers Devontez Walker and Hopkins were right behind him, each notching 20.0. Flowers, who reached 19.6 that day, good for fourth fastest receiver on that list, was asked about those marks after Tuesday’s practice. “He was tryna expose all of us,” Flowers laughed. He was adamant that his new teammate “still plays fast.” Flowers has been most impressed by how patient and intentional Hopkins is in everything he does. He said “it’s easy to just follow” Hopkins’ lead and “he’ll be great for our group.” “I don’t really see DHop as our third receiver,” Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken said. “I see it more as we have three starters.” (Kevin Richardson/Staff) The difference between Hopkins’ relatively quiet tenure in Kansas City and his projections for a year in Baltimore is the full offseason of preparation. Hopkins was traded to the Chiefs in late October and was catching live passes three days later. Baltimore has the flexibility of a whole summer to, as Monken said, “integrate him into the offense” led by two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson, who was absent Tuesday. Still, there was plenty of praise for the new guy after his first couple of practices. “I think he’s going to be great for our offense,” tight end Mark Andrews said, “just being versatile, having a guy that catches the ball extremely well, runs really fluid routes and knows the game well. When he’s out here, he’s flying around.” Related Articles Ravens WR Zay Flowers, healthy again, wants to unlock his game Ravens OTA observations: No Lamar Jackson means a sloppy day for offense How Ravens OLB Odafe Oweh added 20 pounds: ‘Goal for him is to be All-Pro’ READER POLL: Are you happy with how the Ravens are renovating M&T Bank Stadium? All about fun: Ravens TE Isaiah Likely hosts charity softball game Added tight end Isaiah Likely: “I feel like he’s just going to be him. We have a bunch of playmakers on the field at all times where everybody can go distance, so I feel like when the plays are there to be made, whether the ball is in his hands, whether he’s blocking down the field, whether it’s those crucial situations on third down, whenever, in the red zone, he’s going to be there to make those plays.” For now, that’s all distant dreaming. OTAs are a chance to see Hopkins run around in a purple jersey and to hear the wisdom he’s able to impart on the young guys. Training camp starts near the end of July. That should provide more clarity on how Hopkins assimilates into Monken’s offense. “Can’t wait to go full speed and get the pads on and really see it,” Monken said. “We’re not there yet, he’s not there yet, so can’t wait to get there and really see what we got.” Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. View the full article

When the Ravens’ season ended in a dismaying divisional round loss to the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium in January, outside linebacker Odafe Oweh did what a lot of NFL players do once there are no more games to play: He went to Miami. With warm weather, no state income tax and an endless buffet of entertainment and scenery, South Florida has become a natural hibernation destination for professional athletes across all sports. Oweh, coming off a career-high 10 sacks in his fourth season but none in the loss to the Bills, and entering a contract year, also had a bitter taste he was looking cleanse from his palate. “We didn’t have the outing, at least I didn’t have the outing I wanted, so I thought a lot of that had to do with my weight and being able to be stout in certain positions,” he said last week during voluntary organized team activities in Owings Mills. “So, as soon as the season was done, I went to Miami, started eating, lifting and then gaining weight.” Despite being one of the world’s best food cities, it wasn’t quite as appetizing as it sounds. “It actually wasn’t good food,” Oweh continued. “It was a lot of nasty meal prep — dry chicken, Brussels sprouts, asparagus — but it did the job.” Indeed. Between a new diet and new workout routine, the 26-year-old went from 245 pounds during last season to what he says is about 265 pounds this spring. The goal was simple: bulk up and get stronger without losing the speed that had become a hallmark of his game. So through his manager, Oweh enlisted the services of Jordan Collins of DBC Fitness. Collins, a 20-year veteran of the fitness industry who ran track at Auburn and also has a football background, specializes in strength training, linear speed development, deceleration and landing mechanics as well as returning to play from injury. “He had done group sessions his whole career,” Collins said of the company’s individual program. “He really wanted to change things up and really dedicate himself fully.” To Oweh, the relationship was exactly what he was looking for. Despite career highs in sacks and pressures (28, per Pro Football Reference) as well as ranking 17th among edge rushers in pass rush win-rate, per ESPN analytics, a review of game film by Collins revealed a lack of power from the 6-foot-5 specimen. That was evident during the regular season as well as the playoffs. Though Oweh had a sack and three hits on Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson in a wild-card win in Baltimore, he was held to zero sacks and hits on Josh Allen when facing the Bills, who had one of the league’s best offensive lines last season. Enter Collins, who first put Oweh through an orthopedic assessment with DBC performance coach Chaney Knowlton, before drawing up an intense schedule. “The first session we had, he went through five to six bottles of water in 90 minutes with puddles of sweat everywhere. I was like dude,” Collins said. “He was talking to me and said he’d lose maybe 10 pounds a practice and about 15 pounds a game and that it’s hard for him to hold his weight during the season.” So, Collins force fed him, with a nutritional shake after every workout followed by a full meal — one of six or seven during Oweh’s day — before he was allowed to leave the facility following tissue work. The plan was next-level for Oweh, too. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, the first half of the sessions focused entirely on a lower body combo of movement patterning, speed and plyometrics, while the second half would entail heavy lower body weightlifting. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the focus was upper body lifting with Oweh pushing as much weight and volume as he could. There was also 10 to 20 minutes of stretching daily, preceded by a daily wellness questionnaire to gauge his soreness, energy level and the amount and quality of sleep from the night before. The routine carried on for six weeks — save for OTAs and other duties for the Ravens — and he’ll return to Miami for a few more weeks once OTAs and mandatory minicamp later this month conclude. “He didn’t have the strength to bulldoze an offensive tackle and hunker down in some of the run game,” Collins said. “Especially from the upper body perspective.” The workouts had to account for prior injuries that included at least two past shoulder surgeries, including one for what Collins said was a torn labrum following the 2023 season. “His goals were be healthy, stronger at the point of attack and move around offensive linemen and be able to rush from anywhere,” Collins said. “It was real simple at that point. Get him as strong as humanly possible, get him as mobile as humanly possible and let the athlete be an athlete.” Being athletic has, of course, never been an issue for Oweh, whom Baltimore drafted 31st overall out of Penn State in 2021. Production, however, has been more mixed. Over his first three seasons, Oweh had just 11 sacks total and never more than five in a season. He also struggled to be consistent and finish plays. His results took a big step forward last season, though, and the progression with his new powerful frame puts the salary-cap-strapped Ravens in an interesting position. Though they appear interested in signing him to a contract extension, there’s no indication the two sides are close on a long-term deal. Baltimore also used a second-round draft pick this year on highly-touted edge rusher Mike Green, despite off-field character concerns over two sexual assault allegations that some teams had over the former Marshall standout. And while fellow outside linebacker and veteran Kyle Van Noy is also in a contract year, along with David Ojabo, the Ravens have hopes for 2023 fourth-round pick Tavius Robinson and 2024 third-round pick Adisa Isaac to continue to develop into every-down players. Another strong year for Oweh could also price him out of Baltimore. Related Articles READER POLL: Are you happy with how the Ravens are renovating M&T Bank Stadium? All about fun: Ravens TE Isaiah Likely hosts charity softball game Mike Preston: Ravens LB Trenton Simpson must take next step | COMMENTARY Ravens offer peek at latest stadium renovations, including premium seating M&T Bank Stadium plans new dining venues ahead of Ravens season “I would be crazy to say that’s not something a little bit in the back of my mind,” he said of his contract. “But every year I try to get better, try to be better than I was last year. So to be honest, that’s really what I’m focused on. I know if I do that, it’s going to take care of itself.” While OTAs — where contact isn’t allowed — don’t offer much in terms of how Oweh’s bulk will translate on the field, coach John Harbaugh has been pleased so far. “I’m just really happy with Odafe right now, in terms of what he’s done in the last three months,” he said. “He’s worked really hard. He’s just very determined to be really great. Again, my goal for him is to be All-Pro. Go be the best, be the best in the business, and that’s tough, because there’s a lot of good players playing his position, but that’s the way he sees himself, and let’s go for it. “I can see him being — if you want to call it that — a more direct rusher. Use his power, use [the] bull [rush] a little bit more.” Could Oweh’s new bulk slow him down, though, and impact his repertoire? “I wouldn’t say change, maybe sharpen it,” he said. “Obviously, I’m kind of a power-savvy, too, with my rush, so I could build off that more. And then, like I said, when I try to dip and bring the rip up, I’ll be more solid and stout in that.” Still, losing speed was one of the reasons why Oweh was hesitant to add more weight in the past, Collins said. Now that he has, however, he has set another goal: more sacks than last season. “Just try to be more than that,” he said. “I’ve got a number in my head though, but I’ll keep that to myself.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

The Ravens on Thursday unveiled the progress of their latest round of renovations to M&T Bank Stadium, which includes a 6,600-square-foot retail space with a second-floor hospitality area and plenty of premium options for the highest paying customers. We want to know your thoughts about how the team is utilizing $489 million that is being spent on the alterations, almost all of which is public money. We want to know what you think. After you vote, leave a comment and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely ended the home run derby in style, tossing his bat emphatically for all to see on his final swing. The fourth-year tight end swapped out his helmet and shoulder pads for a glove and bat alongside many of his teammates Sunday afternoon at Leidos Field at Ripken Stadium in Aberdeen. Likely hosted the first Isaiah Likely Charity Softball Slam, which benefited Special Olympics Maryland. Fourteen of Likely’s teammates, including Trenton Simpson, Jordan Stout, Tavius Robinson, Devin Leary, Devontez Walker and Charlie Kolar, participated in the event. The afternoon began with a home run derby followed by a six-inning game that pitted the offense against the defense, which ended in an 11-5 victory for the offense. “I want to inspire hope, inspire a smile,” Likely said. “Having the fans watch us every Sunday, Monday, Thursday on the field with our helmets on, to finally get to take the helmet off and show them us outside of our comfort zone, playing another sport. Another sport we get to inspire. The youth really just coming up, letting them know you can make a change, you can do something.” Throughout the six innings, the players and fans soaked in every moment with persistent trash talk on both sides. Likely’s voice echoed loudly above the rest in that aspect, waving bye and encouraging the defensive team to return to the dugout after each out. The offense couldn’t contain their laughter after each defensive team miscue as their lead continued to grow. Meanwhile, early on, Likely flashed the leather with a rangy catch in center field that brought lots of oohs and aahs from the crowd. At one point, Likely and his fellow offensive outfielders were so unimpressed by the defense’s hitting that they lied down in the outfield for several hitters. Offensively, though, Leary and wide receiver Tylan Wallace were the stars with a combined three home runs. Wallace, the fifth-year wideout and return specialist, returned to his baseball roots. Wallace hit a pair of no-doubt home runs. Related Articles Mike Preston: Ravens LB Trenton Simpson must take next step | COMMENTARY Ravens offer peek at latest stadium renovations, including premium seating M&T Bank Stadium plans new dining venues ahead of Ravens season Joe Flacco enters Browns competition as favorite to be starting QB Ravens TE Mark Andrews reflects on Bills playoff loss, addresses contract “It was a lot of fun,” he said. “Being able to just come out here, bond with your teammates, see the guys run around a little bit and being able to interact with the fans. It means the most. Being able to just be around here with the fans, sign some autographs and just really bond with your teammates, I enjoyed it. Not all teams do stuff like this. I’m happy Isaiah put it on, and I appreciate him doing this for the community.” Throughout the afternoon, Ravens players gathered along the first and third-base line for autographs and interacted with fans. At one point, Stout accepted a generous offer from a fan in left field for french fries, the type of unique opportunity for fans to see some of their favorite players and their relationships as teammates in a different light. Likely ended the afternoon by issuing a heartfelt thanks to those in attendance as he and his teammates lined up one final time to sign as many autographs as possible. “I can’t tell you how much I love the city of Baltimore,” Likely said. “I appreciate you all coming out. I appreciate Special Olympics Maryland for having me. I appreciate the Baltimore boys, my brothers coming out here with me and having fun in front of you all. Next stop is the season.” Have a news tip? Contact Jacob Steinberg at jsteinberg@baltsun.com, 443-442-9445 and x.com/jacobstein23. Ravens long snapper Nick Moore reacts after winning the home run derby. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) View the full article

For Ravens weakside linebacker Trenton Simpson, the sequel has to be better than the original. In his second NFL season, the 2023 third-round draft pick out of Clemson finished with 73 tackles. That might be good for a reserve, but not a starter. Since they are mostly uncovered, weakside linebackers generally finish second or third on their team in tackles, right up there with a safety. But after Week 13, the Ravens benched Simpson, and Chris Board and Malik Harrison shared starting duties for the rest of the regular season and into the playoffs. Board then signed a two-year, $6 million deal with the New York Giants on March 12, and a day later Harrison finalized a two-year agreement for $10 million with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Guess who is the Ravens’ starting weakside linebacker going into training camp next month? It’s Simpson, based more on design than the lack of available talent. “Most definitely, I expect to start,” said Simpson, who started with the first group in base defense Wednesday in the first voluntary practice of organized team activities that was open to the media. “That was my goal all through the offseason, just to improve and earn the trust of my teammates and coaches. I expect a big year for myself.” So do the Ravens. Last year, Simpson was benched in what coach John Harbaugh termed a “reset period.” He was right. The reviews were mixed on the 23-year-old Simpson. There were times when he looked lost and couldn’t find a running back or tight end in coverage even with the aid of a navigation system. That was strange because he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.43 seconds with a 1.55-second 10-yard split at the 2023 NFL scouting combine, both elite marks for the linebacker position. There are some running backs who don’t run that fast. Simpson’s development, though, wasn’t about his great athleticism, but more about film study and recognizing down and distance. Then there is reaction time. A step slow in the NFL can lead to touchdowns. Many touchdowns. “I’m blessed to be playing the same defense going into my third year,” said Simpson, who is entering his second season with defensive coordinator and former inside linebackers coach Zach Orr after playing his rookie year under Mike Macdonald. “Just going into this year, I have more understanding of what to expect from an offense, being ahead of the play. I learned so much last year; grew a lot from what I went through and am so excited.” The effort to learn and grow is sincere because of Simpson’s sense of humility. Also, the Ravens have him as a starter with William Kwenkeu and rookies Teddye Buchanan and Chandler Martin behind him. Raiders tight end Brock Bowers, right, beats Ravens linebacker Trenton Simpson, left, for a catch in Week 2 of the 2024 NFL season. The Ravens are counting on Simpson taking a step forward in 2025, his third NFL season. (Kenneth K. Lam/Staff) Simpson, from Charlotte, North Carolina, reported to offseason workouts weeks before most other Ravens. Last year, he played at 235 pounds but has added 6-8 pounds of muscle to his 6-foot-2 frame. He is chiseled because of a diet that has helped increase his strength. He now squats over 500 pounds. “I’m just competing with myself,” Simpson said. “Honestly, just being sharp myself, focusing on coming in every day, making sure I know the game plan, communicating at a high level and playing fast. I truly feel like this year is just me versus me, and I want to go out there and make plays. “I mean, going back, I just did a lot of self-evaluation and looking at myself in the mirror and I knew that I wanted to gain a little bit more weight so I can be more stout against the run. I mean, I can run fast regardless of whatever weight I’m at. God gave me speed, so yeah, the weight was something I wanted to improve on myself.” There will be some missing parts. Pro Bowl linebacker Roquan Smith will be in the middle again, and Simpson counted on him for advice. But he also was tutored by Harrison and Board, who are now playing elsewhere. Once considered a youngster, Simpson has become a veteran. “We always had a solid room,” Simpson said. “One thing I took away from in my rookie year is both [Smith] and Patrick [Queen] both playing relentlessly, playing like a Raven. What I learned from them is something that I know will benefit me.” Related Articles Ravens offer peek at latest stadium renovations, including premium seating M&T Bank Stadium plans new dining venues ahead of Ravens season Joe Flacco enters Browns competition as favorite to be starting QB Ravens TE Mark Andrews reflects on Bills playoff loss, addresses contract Ravens QB Lamar Jackson ‘ready to get back to work’ at OTAs Simpson still remains in frequent contact with Queen, the player he replaced at the start of last season. Despite the Steelers being Baltimore’s top nemesis, Pittsburgh now has Queen and Harrison. But Simpson wants to focus only on himself. This season has to be a big one. “Truthfully, you just have to know how important the details are at this level,” Simpson said. “Just knowing concepts and tendencies, just understanding that it’s a battle, it’s a long season. You just got to be able to stick it through, continue to perform. I need to be in the right spots so my teammates can depend on me.” One person who will keep an eye on Simpson is Harbaugh. There cannot be another “reset” period. Those ground rules were set after last season. “Trenton Simpson is a young player for sure, so there’s not any one thing I think [that] any one player needs to work on, but for Trenton, it’s going to be just processing the game at the position,” Harbaugh said. “That’s a function of study, for sure, but just also reps and confidence and learning the defense, understanding what the offense is trying to do. Then, when you get out there, processing the game, reacting, and I guess putting that physical ability — which is so prolific — putting it to good use.” Have a news tip? Contact Mike Preston at epreston@baltsun.com, 410-332-6467 and x.com/MikePrestonSun. View the full article

As Ravens players line up to take the field this season at M&T Bank Stadium, some fans will be able to get closer than ever before, with only a glass wall separating them from quarterback and two-time NFL Most Valuable Player Lamar Jackson and his teammates. The same will hold true after games, with some fans also able to view postgame news conferences taking place inside the team’s interview room through a two-way mirror as coach John Harbaugh, Jackson and other players field questions from reporters in the fishbowl setting. Those are just two of the elements in the second of three phases of renovations that will debut this fall and which were on display during a tour for reporters Thursday afternoon. Along with other accoutrements, they will help bring the 27-year-old structure up to par with many other stadiums around the league that already offer such experiences and more. They also come at a premium. Only fans who pay top dollar for a membership to “The Trust” — one of three new exclusive clubs being offered this year, along with the “The Raven” and the “Champions Club” — will be able to access the space, which will include decorative touches such as the words to Edgar Allan Poe’s poem “The Raven” upon entering. Its addition follows last season’s unveiling of the bespoke “Blackwing” suites, which are outfitted with marble counters, huge televisions, plush seating and high-end dining options. It also follows a trend in today’s stadium world, where keeping up with the Joneses with posh and pricey upgrades that cater to just a small but well-paying crowd has become part and parcel with an eye on attracting a broader spectrum of events and fans to the 71,008-seat venue. “Just one correction, we are at the premier stadium in the Mid-Atlantic already,” Ravens president Sashi Brown said Thursday when he was asked about the organization’s desire to be the top stadium in the region. “We wanted to make sure we invested to ensure that moving forward.” Indeed. The state had already earmarked $434 million in public money for the renovations, which are expected to be completed in 2026. But because the project ran over budget, the Ravens will kick in another $55 million, with the Maryland Stadium Authority reimbursing them up to $35 million, as announced earlier this year. That would bring the total price tag to about $489 million, with most of the money made available through a 2022 state law that allowed the stadium authority to borrow up to $1.2 billion in bonds to improve M&T Bank Stadium and Oriole Park at Camden Yards ($600 million for each). By agreeing in January 2023 to a lease until at least 2037, the Ravens unlocked their share of those state funds. Other luxurious upgrades scheduled to be completed by the start of the 2025 season include the “Legends Suites” in the west end zone. There, high-paying customers will have access to a private suite area as well as members-only bar and food service, along with two rows of seats — 160 in total — on the field level. . From the "Legends Suites," fans who pay for premium access can watch the game from on-field seats in the west end zone ay M&T Bank Stadium. (Kim Hairston/Staff) But the sumptuous enhancements aren’t just for Ravens games, of which there will be nine at home this season. “The nice thing about these renovations is the ability to activate the stadium in more dynamic ways,” Brown said. “We think this makes the stadium more attractive for third-party events — soccer matches, concerts.” While Baltimore lost out on its bid to be a host city for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Brown added that he has been in contact with the organization, as well as the Premier League and other soccer organizations, to ensure that the stadium would meet their myriad needs. Those talks have extended to the NFL as well, with a desire to be a host city for the NFL draft. Currently, Pittsburgh and Washington are scheduled to hold the draft in 2026 and 2027, respectively, after Green Bay, Wisconsin, was the site of this year’s three-day festivities. It’s a multi-layered process that will likely take at least a few more years, however. “We think this renovation positions us really well to have the stadium be a complementary piece of that,” Brown said. “NFL drafts take over the better part of a city, not just a stadium.” Not all of the latest round of renovations will cater to an exclusive crowd. The north plaza’s east structure will include a 6,600-square foot retail space with a second-floor hospitality area. The store will be open year-round and include the ability for fans to have a customized jersey created on the spot. Ravens team president Sashi Brown said renovations at M&T Bank Stadium "positions us to be one of the best stadiums if not the best stadium in the NFL for a long time." (Kim Hairston/Staff) The plaza’s west structure, which is expected to be completed in 2026, will include a three-level, open-air tailgate and concert venue as well as an indoor sports bar. Other venues open to all in 2025 include a new and larger roughly 5,000-square foot retail space on the west side of the stadium, where the team’s ticket office previously stood. A retail store at Gate A, meanwhile, is being converted into a walk-through “Ravenous Chicken” venue. Related Articles Mike Preston: Ravens LB Trenton Simpson must take next step | COMMENTARY M&T Bank Stadium plans new dining venues ahead of Ravens season Joe Flacco enters Browns competition as favorite to be starting QB Ravens TE Mark Andrews reflects on Bills playoff loss, addresses contract Ravens QB Lamar Jackson ‘ready to get back to work’ at OTAs “It’s been a team effort,” Brown said, citing the work senior vice president of stadium operations and guest experience Rich Tamayo and senior vice president of marketing Brad Downs have done in the lead-up. “We are real excited where M&T Bank Stadium sits today, and with these additional elements that are provided by the renovation in a joint venture between us and the state, we think it positions us to be one of the best stadiums if not the best stadium in the NFL for a long time.” He also, however, acknowledged the push for more elevated experiences in today’s landscape. “From concessions to just the everyday fan experience, certainly what’s happened over the last 20 years in sports venues, professional sports venues, college sports venues, has been to bring more offerings and what’s called premium or club spaces,” Brown said. “But a lot of our investment here is going to really touch every fan who comes in the building.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

Nearly two months before M&T Bank Stadium welcomes fans back for its first preseason game, the Ravens are preparing to serve up several new venues for food and beverages, including a walk-through dining concept and a “hospitality village” on a rooftop setting. In 2023, the Ravens announced a three-year renovation project to level up stadium infrastructure and offerings. With the upgrades come new dining spaces. Here are the highlights. The most stadium-accessible of these developments will be a repurposed team retail store at Section 153, which will transform into a food hub featuring the preexisting “Ravenous Chicken” fried-chicken-centric concessions, as well as offerings from other to-be-announced vendors. “Ravenous Chicken has been a great concept for us,” said Brad Downs, senior vice president of marketing for the Ravens. Its newest space will boast self-serve food slides and reach-in beverage coolers to maximize efficiency. The North Plaza "Hospitality Village" is currently under construction at M&T Bank Stadium. (Jane Godiner/Staff) Fans will also be able to make their way to North Plaza to try bites and sips from an under-construction “Hospitality Village,” which will sit atop of a new retail plaza with a jersey customization shop. The upstairs hospitality space will feature a full-service bar and two built-in food and beverage areas, as well as a seating area for upwards of 300 guests. During non-game days, the area will serve as an event space. “We love our rooftops here in Baltimore,” Downs said. Richard Tamayo, senior vice president of stadium operations, added that he doesn’t foresee this upstairs area becoming overly packed. “It’ll be a very comfortable, very good social experience,” he said. Aside from these public dining venues, the stadium will also add three field-level premium clubs, which have for-purchase memberships available exclusively to Personal Seat License owners: The Raven: Near the 50-yard line and complete with nods to Edgar Allen Poe’s “The Raven.” Champions Club: Behind the west end zone and with bars that pay homage to the Ravens’ two Super Bowl victories. The Trust: On the south side of the stadium, themed after 1900s Baltimore banks. Related Articles Baltimore mussels restaurant Bertha’s sells for $1.2M at auction Tangy cherry preserves bring balance to this ancient ricotta tart Charlsie’s Bakehouse owner plans next gig after Catonsville bakery closure Recipes: Use blackberries to make a pie, tiny cakes and even a salad Catonsville bakery to shutter with ‘Grand Closing’ celebration At each of these clubs, as well as the under-construction Legend Suites, members can expect a range of food and drink options — from all-inclusive premium cocktails to a sushi bar. More information about concessions and dining at M&T Bank Stadium, said Downs and Tamayo, will be announced in the weeks leading up to opening day. Have a news tip? Contact Jane Godiner at jgodiner@baltsun.com or on Instagram as @JaneCraves. View the full article

BEREA, Ohio — Kenny Pickett realizes that almost all the offseason attention devoted to the Cleveland Browns is on the quarterback competition. Pickett wants to make one thing abundantly clear, though — even though it is a competition, things haven’t gotten heated inside the quarterback room. “I think the outside world makes it a lot bigger than it is. Of course, we’re all competing, but you become friends with everybody,” Pickett said on Wednesday after the Browns completed their second day of organized team activities. “I think it’s a great media headline, but when you get in the building in a quarterback room and at least all the ones I’ve been in, you really become friends with these guys, and we’re just pushing each other.” Pickett and former Ravens star Joe Flacco got the majority of the snaps with the veterans. Third-round pick Dillon Gabriel got one series of 11-on-11 drills on the main field, while fifth-round selection Shedeur Sanders had none. Gabriel and Sanders got most of their work with the other rookies on the adjacent field. Even though he is 40 years old, Flacco is the slight favorite to be under center when the Browns host the Cincinnati Bengals on Sept. 7 in the season opener. “It’s funny, it’s like every time I go out here in the offseason, I’ve done it a million times, but it’s like there’s a little piece of you that’s like, ‘All right, let’s see if I still know how to read it and let it go and do all those things.’ So it’s good to get back out there and start doing it again,” said Flacco, the AP Comeback Player of the Year in 2023, after he went 4-1 as a starter and led the Browns to the playoffs for only the third time since their return in 1999. Even though Flacco said this is the first quarterback competition of this magnitude he has experienced since being a sophomore in high school in Audubon, New Jersey, he isn’t focused too much on it at this stage of the offseason. “I’m just going out there and doing what I do, and everything else is kind of out of my control. So all I can do is go out there and play football and that’s what I’m doing,” Flacco said. The Browns acquired Pickett in a trade with Philadelphia when the league year opened in March. Pickett started one game last season for the Super Bowl champion Eagles while backing up Jalen Hurts. He was 14-10 as a starter in two years with Pittsburgh after being the Steelers first-round pick in 2022. Pickett admitted that there are more similarities between the Eagles’ and Browns’ offenses than most people realize. The biggest thing he has focused on is getting up to speed with the terminology. “I think it has gone well. They’re doing a great job of getting everyone reps to get experience with the offense and get a feel for everybody,” he said. In 2023, Joe Flacco went 4-1 as the starter and led the Browns to the playoffs. (AP Photo/Phil Long) Pickett and Flacco both have developed a good rapport with Jerry Jeudy. The sixth-year wide receiver had one of the day’s best catches on a deep route from Flacco on one of the first plays during 11-on-11 drills. “It’s been good. I don’t think there were many dropped balls,” Jeudy said. “So quarterbacks were putting balls right on the money and receivers were making plays. We’re going to keep doing that.” Gabriel had a pass tipped at the line of scrimmage and picked off by first-round pick Mason Graham. Both Gabriel and Sanders fared well in 7-on-7 drills against rookies. Coach Kevin Stefanski said all of the rookies’ snaps remain valuable, whether they are on or off the field. “They’re being graded on every play. And there’s a variety of things that they’re being graded on, but for the quarterback, decision-making, technique, accuracy, those type of things,” he said. “We love the opportunity being out here on the practice field and have two drills where we can maximize all the time that we’re out here.” Garrett’s absence There were two notable absences at Wednesday’s voluntary practice. Defensive end Myles Garrett is in Japan and accompanied Olympic snowboard gold medalist Chloe Kim at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards. Stefanski said he didn’t know if Garrett would be back with the team before the mandatory minicamp begins on June 10. Wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who signed with the team on May 5, might be the bigger no-show since the Browns are his fourth team in less than a year. “I’m worried about day to day, but let me reiterate, this is a voluntary program across the NFL guys,″ Stefanski said. “That’s their right, whether they’re here or not. The guys that are here, we coach ’em up. The guys that aren’t here, that is totally their decision to make.” View the full article

A little more than four months removed from his infamous dropped 2-point conversion in the Ravens’ divisional round loss to the Buffalo Bills last season, Mark Andrews called the ignominious if not vexing moment “motivation” for the season ahead. “It’s tough,” he said at voluntary organized team activities Wednesday in Owings Mills in what were his first comments to reporters since the 27-25 defeat at a snowy Highmark Stadium that ended Baltimore’s bid for a Super Bowl title in January. “This is my life. I’ve put a lot of work into this and everything I do is focused on that, everything I think about is focused on that, and so it wasn’t the way that I had planned it, but that’s all part of the story. “I’ve been using it, and I’ve had an incredible offseason, and I’m excited just to show what I can continue to do and continue to prove myself and step up in big moments. And that’s the thing about sports is that it doesn’t always fall your way. It doesn’t always go your way, but it’s how you bounce back.” That story was a stunning moment, for the veteran and star tight end and the Ravens. In the defeat to Buffalo, Andrews also lost a fumble midway through the fourth quarter shortly after crossing midfield that the Bills turned into what ended up being the decisive field goal. Still, the Ravens had a chance to tie the game after Lamar Jackson connected with Isaiah Likely on a 24-yard touchdown with 1:44 remaining. But as Jackson rolled right on the 2-point attempt and Andrews came open at the goal line, Andrews bobbled and dropped the ball as he fell backward into the end zone on the slick turf. After the game — one in which Baltimore had three turnovers, including two by Jackson — Andrews was not made available to reporters. He also didn’t appear at locker cleanout at the team’s facility the next afternoon. Later that week, Andrews posted a statement on Instagram, saying he was “absolutely gutted” by what happened and that he was “devastated” for his teammates. Meanwhile, trade speculation swirled almost immediately once the loss set in. Andrews, who will turn 30 in September, is entering the final year of a four-year, $56 million contract. Likely, 25, is also in the final year of his rookie contract, as is fellow tight end Charlie Kolar, 26, and being able to extend all three players is unfeasible, particularly with the need to address other extensions, including one for Jackson. General manager Eric DeCosta finally put Andrews trade speculation to bed when he said during the draft that he fully expected him to be on the team this season, but Andrews’ future beyond 2025 remains uncertain at best. Ravens tight ends Mark Andrews, left, and Isaiah Likely practice on Wednesday at voluntary OTAs. Likely called Andrews a "big brother" to him during his NFL career. (Kim Hairston/Staff) Andrews is coming off a year in which he became the franchise leader in career touchdowns, but he averaged just 39.6 receiving yards per game, his lowest mark since his rookie year in 2018. He also counts $16.9 million against the salary cap, the third-highest mark on the team behind only Jackson and linebacker Roquan Smith, and there have yet to be discussions about an extension. Asked about whether he expected to be back this season or whether he expects an extension, Andrews demurred, saying he’s just focused on helping the team and that the cards will fall where they may. “It’s not for me to deal with that,” he said. “I thought Eric had a great way to say it — he’s in the business of keeping great players and, for me, I’m a great player. “I think I’ve been able to do it at the highest level, the best of the best for a long time and I’m not slowing down.” Unsurprisingly, Likely was just one player glad to see Andrews back on the field for what was a well-attended two-hour practice on Wednesday. “That’s big brother,” Likely said of Andrews. “I’m glad everybody’s speculation died down.” It also wasn’t the first time since that defeat to the Bills that the two tight ends had spoken. After the game, Likely said he texted Andrews. He wanted to let him know that one moment does not define a career. Related Articles Joe Flacco enters Browns competition as favorite to be starting QB Ravens QB Lamar Jackson ‘ready to get back to work’ at OTAs Renderings of renovations to Ravens stadium | PHOTOS Ravens hit the field again this week. Here are 5 things to watch. READER POLL: How should the Orioles approach the MLB trade deadline? “I said don’t let one play really let you forget that you’re an All-Pro,” Likely said. “Everybody knows how fantastic Mark’s been, making plays since before I even got here. “Him being him, he’s gonna take it all in, let the moment happen and just be a pro.” That includes moving beyond the loss to the Bills. “As a professional, it’s all about being able to move past it but storing that in the memory bank and understanding that this is not the end,” Andrews said. “This is something I’m going to work with, and get better and improve and move on.” Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. Ravens tight end Mark Andrews during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)From left, Ravens tight ends Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews warms up during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews warms up during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)From left, Ravens tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews takes questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely takes questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens running back Keaton Mitchell during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)From left, Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins and wide receiver Malik Cunningham Ravens during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens wide receiver LaJohntay Wester during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens wide receiver LaJohntay Wester during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens offensive line backer Odafe Owen takes questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens head coach John Harbaugh takes questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)From left, Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely makes a catch during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight ends Mark Andrews, left, and Isaiah Likely practice on Wednesday at voluntary OTAs. Likely called Andrews a "big brother" to him during his NFL career. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely gestures during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and ..Cooper Rush participate in OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum and quarterback Lamar Jackson during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Show Caption1 of 22Ravens tight end Mark Andrews during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Expand View the full article

As Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely put it, a strong attendance for the first open practice of organized team activities is a credit to the sour taste leftover from their playoff loss in Buffalo and the joy that comes with getting back on the field. But having quarterback Lamar Jackson taking reps at the Owings Mills facility on Wednesday heightened that May football energy to a new level. “Having one of your leaders — really your top dog — out there showing that he’s ready to get back to work,” Likely said of the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player. It’s a heel turn from this time last year, when Jackson was absent for a majority of the offseason’s voluntary practices. That reportedly cost Baltimore’s franchise quarterback his summer workout bonus of $750,000. NBC Sports reported that Jackson must complete at least 80% of the team’s optional workouts for the bonus to kick in, which is inked into his contract through 2027. Jackson was not made available to speak with reporters after Wednesday’s practice, but his coach was impressed with what he saw. “He works hard at it. It means a lot to him,” John Harbaugh said. “He’s been studying. He’s been training. You can tell what kind of shape he’s in right now, you can see by the way he threw the ball today. He’s on point with the offense. He’s ready. He’s ready to get going. Had a heck of a day today. I think what you saw today with him is probably indicative of everybody.” Added tight end Mark Andrews: “There’s no one more hungry than Lamar. … Just being around him, it’s infectious. How driven he is and how focused he is on the end goal.” The Ravens had a surprisingly strong showing at the first open OTA session. Baltimore has eight more scheduled practices over the next two weeks before holding mandatory minicamp in June and training camp in July. Safety Ar’Darius Washington (torn Achilles tendon) and rookie offensive lineman Emery Jones Jr. (labrum) were expected injury-related absences. A pair of offseason additions did not participate: Cornerback Chidobe Awuzie and linebacker Jake Hummel. Veteran outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy and right guard Daniel Faalele were also missing. Harbaugh said that Faalele is “working on some physical things” but should be back on the field soon. Around the horn • Washington, who suffered a clean Achilles tear earlier this month, told Harbaugh that he intends to be back on the field by November. “He’s always been a quick healer,” Harbaugh said. “I’m looking at November [or] December, in my mind.” Washington, 25, last month signed the less expensive, $3.3 million one-year tender to stay in Baltimore. Related Articles Joe Flacco enters Browns competition as favorite to be starting QB Ravens TE Mark Andrews reflects on Bills playoff loss, addresses contract Renderings of renovations to Ravens stadium | PHOTOS Ravens hit the field again this week. Here are 5 things to watch. READER POLL: How should the Orioles approach the MLB trade deadline? • Rookie Tyler Loop did not kick on Wednesday as part of an alternating day off with undrafted free agent John Hoyland. Harbaugh reiterated that the organization’s decision to release veteran Justin Tucker was a “many-layered decision” and a “football decision.” Tucker was accused of sexual misconduct by more than a dozen Baltimore-area massage therapists and is currently under investigation by the NFL. • Edge rusher Odafe Oweh said a “nasty” offseason diet of dry chicken, Brussels sprouts and asparagus helped bulk up from 245 pounds last season to now around 265. The 2021 first-round draft pick is entering the final year of his rookie contract. • The Ravens are working to schedule joint practices with the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Commanders, two of three opponents on their preseason schedule. Baltimore announced that its preseason finale at Washington will be Saturday, Aug. 23, at noon. Have a news tip? Contact Sam Cohn at scohn@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/samdcohn. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely takes questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens running back Keaton Mitchell during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)From left, Ravens cornerback Nate Wiggins and wide receiver Malik Cunningham Ravens during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens wide receiver LaJohntay Wester during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens wide receiver LaJohntay Wester during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens wide receiver LaJohntay Wester during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens offensive line backer Odafe Owen takes questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens head coach John Harbaugh takes questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews takes questions after OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)From left, Ravens tight ends Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)From left, Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely makes a catch during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)From left, Ravens tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)From left, Ravens tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Cooper Rush participate in OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center on Wednesday. Jackson's presence increased the energy of the workouts, according to tight end Isaiah Likely. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum and quarterback Lamar Jackson during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely gestures during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews warms up during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Ravens tight end Mark Andrews warms up during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Show Caption1 of 22Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson during OTAs at the Under Armour Performance Center. (Kim Hairston/Staff)Expand View the full article

Renderings of phase 2 of the M&T Bank Stadium renovations. Champions Club is located behind the west end zone, the Champions Club will be home to two featured bars celebrating each of the Ravens' Super Bowl victories. Club membership offers a premium bar experience with all-inclusive food and beverage options and access to private restrooms throughout the game. Renderings of the Legends Suites in the West End Zone as part of the phase 2 renovations to M&T Bank Stadium. Suite holders can take in the game from two rows of seating directly on the field in the west end zone of M&T Bank Stadium. Guests will have access to both a private suite area and to a members-only social area outfitted with bar and food service stations before, during and after the game. The space will also feature a sushi bar. (Scheduled Completion: 2025) Renderings of phase 2 of the M&T Bank Stadium renovations. Champions Club is located behind the west end zone, the Champions Club will be home to two featured bars celebrating each of the Ravens' Super Bowl victories. Club membership offers a premium bar experience with all-inclusive food and beverage options and access to private restrooms throughout the game. Rendering of The Trust, presented by M&T Bank. The Trust, one of the three new club memberships being offered to PSL owners is located on the south side of M&T Bank Stadium, is an ultra-premium, lower concourse club that offers unique team access, including views of the Ravens' player tunnel at the 50-yard line and the post-game press conference room. The space encapsulates a lounge-like atmosphere with design elements reminiscent of early 1900s Baltimore banks. Renderings of phase 2 of the M&T Bank Stadium renovations. Champions Club is located behind the west end zone, the Champions Club will be home to two featured bars celebrating each of the Ravens' Super Bowl victories. Club membership offers a premium bar experience with all-inclusive food and beverage options and access to private restrooms throughout the game. The Raven, one of the three new club memberships being offered to PSL owners. Situated near the 50-yard line and underneath the lower level, The Raven is located on the north side of M&T Bank Stadium and provides an elevated club experience. The space will feature thematic touches related to the team's namesake, the poem "The Raven." Rendering of The Trust, presented by M&T Bank. The Trust, one of the three new club memberships being offered to PSL owners is located on the south side of M&T Bank Stadium, is an ultra-premium, lower concourse club that offers unique team access, including views of the Ravens' player tunnel at the 50-yard line and the post-game press conference room. The space encapsulates a lounge-like atmosphere with design elements reminiscent of early 1900s Baltimore banks. Renderings of the Northeast Retail & Hospitality Village at M&T Bank Stadium. The east structure will feature a 6,600 square foot retail space with a second-floor hospitality area. The store will be an immersive shopping experience for Ravens fans on both gameday and non-gamedays. Open year-round, the store will feature RFID self-checkout, a unique Nike feature display and a jersey customization shop. (Scheduled Completion: 2025) Rendering of The Raven, one of the three new club memberships being offered to PSL owners. Situated near the 50-yard line and underneath the lower level, The Raven is located on the north side of M&T Bank Stadium and provides an elevated club experience. The space will feature thematic touches related to the team's namesake, the poem "The Raven." Renderings of the Legends Suites in the West End Zone. Suite holders can take in the game from two rows of seating directly on the field in the west end zone of M&T Bank Stadium. Guests will have access to both a private suite area and to a members-only social area outfitted with bar and food service stations before, during and after the game. The space will also feature a sushi bar. (Scheduled Completion: 2025) Renderings of phase 2 of the M&T Bank Stadium renovations. Champions Club is located behind the west end zone, the Champions Club will be home to two featured bars celebrating each of the Ravens' Super Bowl victories. Club membership offers a premium bar experience with all-inclusive food and beverage options and access to private restrooms throughout the game. Renderings of new stadium video displays highlighted by a 216-foot video display at Gate A, wider than RavensVision, M&T Bank Stadium will add 29 new displays totaling over 6,500 square feet and more than 75 million pixels. (Additional upgrades scheduled for 2026 will increase the display totals to 12,000 square feet and 111 million total pixels.) Over 100 televisions will also be replaced with larger screens. (Scheduled Completion: 2025) Renderings of phase 2 of the M&T Bank Stadium renovations. Champions Club is located behind the west end zone, the Champions Club will be home to two featured bars celebrating each of the Ravens' Super Bowl victories. Club membership offers a premium bar experience with all-inclusive food and beverage options and access to private restrooms throughout the game. Renderings of new stadium video displays highlighted by a 216-foot video display at Gate A, wider than RavensVision. M&T Bank Stadium will add 29 new displays totaling over 6,500 square feet and more than 75 million pixels.nOver 100 televisions will also be replaced with larger screens. (Scheduled Completion: 2025) Renderings of the Northeast Retail & Hospitality Village at M&T Bank Stadium. The east structure will feature a 6,600 square foot retail space with a second-floor hospitality area. The store will be an immersive shopping experience for Ravens fans on both gameday and non-gamedays. Open year-round, the store will feature RFID self-checkout, a unique Nike feature display and a jersey customization shop. (Scheduled Completion: 2025) View the full article

The Ravens are back to work this week with the start of voluntary organized team activities, though that work never fully stopped. After the draft in the end of April, there was rookie minicamp. Then, Baltimore decided not to wait for the NFL’s investigation into the sexual misconduct allegations against kicker Justin Tucker to conclude and released the 35-year-old potential Hall of Famer with nary a mention of said allegations in its statement. The team’s offseason workout program, meanwhile, has been ongoing, which included the news that safety Ar’Darius Washington suffered a torn Achilles tendon, an injury that will cost him most if not all of the season. And last week, Derrick Henry officially signed his two-year, $30 million extension, a move that keeps him, quarterback Lamar Jackson, running back Justice Hill, receivers Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman and tackles Ronnie Stanley and Roger Rosengarten in Baltimore through at least the 2026 season. Now comes OTAs, which will kick off Tuesday and run through Thursday in Owings Mills, with only Wednesday’s session open to reporters. A similar schedule will play out in the two weeks that follow before a two-day mandatory minicamp June 17-18 — interestingly shortened from three days in recent years — in which all players are typically expected to report. There is no contact allowed, but seven-on-seven and full-team work is. Here are the biggest things to watch for this spring: Will Lamar Jackson be in attendance? The last time Jackson spoke with reporters, his frustration was in full throat following Baltimore’s divisional round loss to the Buffalo Bills in January. In that game, the Ravens turned the ball over three times — with two of them coming via an interception by Jackson and then a fumble by the quarterback. As for whether he’ll be at OTAs, that’s still to be determined, though he has typically showed up for at least some of the voluntary sessions in the past. But his attendance — or lack thereof — could be worth watching for another reason. The two-time NFL Most Valuable Player is in line for a contract extension. Though Jackson’s current deal runs through the 2027 season, there’s an impetus for general manager Eric DeCosta to sign him to an extension sometime in the next roughly 10 months with Jackson’s salary cap number ballooning from $43.5 million this year to a prohibitive $74.5 million each of the next two. The Ravens said they have begun internal discussions about said extension, but what, if any, talks they’ve had with Jackson is still unclear, and both sides usually like to keep those conversations private. In 2022, a year before Jackson signed his current contract, he skipped OTAs, though he later said the decision was not contract-related. In the meantime, Jackson has been working out with Flowers in South Florida. The extent of those throwing sessions isn’t known, but a few clips have been posted to social media in recent days. The only question that remains is whether Jackson will be throwing to the rest of his receivers in Owings Mills during OTAs. Ravens kicker Tyler Loop practices during rookie minicamp. The sixth-round pick is tasked with replacing veteran Justin Tucker. (AP Photo/Nick Wass) Kicking competition For the first time since 2012, the Ravens will have a new kicker. Sixth-round rookie Tyler Loop out of Arizona and undrafted free agent John Hoyland from Wyoming are expected to compete for the job. Loop is the favorite as the first kicker Baltimore has ever used a draft pick on, but it’s worth remembering that Tucker was an undrafted free agent when the Ravens signed him a few months after Billy Cundiff missed a potential game-tying 32-yard field goal attempt in the waning seconds of the AFC championship game against the New England Patriots in 2012. Related Articles READER POLL: How should the Orioles approach the MLB trade deadline? Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay dies at 65 Olympic flag football: Which Ravens might consider going for gold? Ravens RB Derrick Henry ‘fell in love’ with franchise, wants Super Bowl Ravens add needed bulk to defensive line with veteran nose tackle Both Loop and Hoyland were on display during the team’s rookie minicamp earlier this month, and each missed some kicks on the day that was open to the media. But that’s also probably to be expected early on. As Tucker said after winning the job more than a decade ago, “To the naked eye, it doesn’t look like I’ve made a lot of changes, but I’ve made a complete transformation from the kicker I was in college to the kicker I am today.” Either way, expect the competition between Loop and Hoyland (and possibly a veteran free agent) to be one of the bigger stories of OTAs and training camp with Baltimore having to worry about a position that was a no-brainer for a dozen years. What will Mark Andrews have to say? While Jackson hasn’t spoken to reporters since after the Bills loss, Andrews hasn’t done so since dropping a would-be game-tying 2-point conversion with 1:33 remaining in that game. Andrews was not made available following the game and he did not appear at locker cleanout the next day. His only comments since came in an Instagram post a few days later and in an interview with ESPN as part of a promotional tour for a name, image and likeness program for college athletes with diabetes. In that interview, Andrews said his gloves were “soaked,” but that he still should have caught the pass. He also addressed the trade speculation that has swirled, saying his relationship with the Ravens and DeCosta is strong. Andrews is entering the final year of his contract, while fellow tight end Isaiah Likely, who at age 25 is five years younger and on the rise, is also in the final year of his rookie deal, thus fueling questions about Andrews’ future. The only certainty — for now — is that Andrews will be playing for the Ravens this season, with DeCosta having said as much during the draft. But a veteran as accomplished as Andrews, who still has a few productive seasons left playing on the final year of his deal, does present some questions. Most notably, does Andrews want to be extended before the season starts, and would he ask to be traded should the Ravens extend Likely? For a team with a roster fit for a Super Bowl run, it’s a delicate dance. Ravens safety Malaki Starks will take on an even bigger role after Ar'Darius Washington suffered a torn Achilles tendon. (Karl Merton Ferron/Staff) It’s Malaki Starks’ time The rookie safety and first-round pick playing early and often for Baltimore was always a possibility if not likelihood — everyone from DeCosta to coach John Harbaugh to others around the league have praised the former Georgia standout for his talent, maturity and football IQ. Now, with Washington out and the Ravens a little thinner at the position that possibility becomes a certainty. Even if Baltimore adds a veteran safety — there are plenty of affordable options on the market — Starks should get a chance to show off his medley of skills, and it will be interesting to see the development of second-year players Sanoussi Kane and Beau Brade as well. “I just want to be a sponge,” Starks said earlier this month when asked about what he can learn from Washington and All-Pro and two-time All-Pro Kyle Hamilton. It’ll be interesting to watch how the Ravens deploy him without Washington in the fold. Either way, he’ll need to soak things up quickly. Cooper Rush is Lamar Jackson's new backup. (Chitose Suzuki/The Dallas Morning News/TNS) A new backup quarterback For the first time in a long time, the Ravens have made a notable investment in their No. 2 quarterback, signing veteran and former Dallas Cowboys backup Cooper Rush to a two-year, $6.2 million deal in March. It was a fascinating move after Baltimore spent little on the position in recent years, with 38-year-old Josh Johnson and 2020 undrafted free agent Tyler Huntley before that. It also gives the Ravens a much better option should Jackson miss any time because of injury, with Rush, 31, having appeared in 38 games, including 14 as a starter. Dallas was 9-5 in those games Rush started, which included the final eight of last season, and he’s coming off a year in which he completed 60.7% of his passes, threw for 1,844 yards and 12 touchdowns with five interceptions. With Jackson unlikely to be at every voluntary practice the next few weeks and the only other quarterback on the roster (for now) being project and last year’s sixth-round pick Devin Leary, Rush should get a healthy dose of snaps in a new offense over the next few weeks. Have a news tip? Contact Brian Wacker at bwacker@baltsun.com, 410-332-6200 and x.com/brianwacker1. View the full article

History is not on the Orioles’ side. Teams this far below .500 at this point in the season have very rarely turned things around and made the postseason. And with the trade deadline looming later this season and Baltimore having plenty of capital to potentially trade away, it could make for an interesting summer. How should Baltimore approach the MLB trade deadline? We want to know your thoughts. After you vote, leave a comment and we might use your take in The Baltimore Sun. The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. To read the results of previous reader polls, click here. View the full article

Jim Irsay, the Indianapolis Colts’ owner who leveraged the popularity of Peyton Manning into a new stadium and a Super Bowl title, died Wednesday at age 65. Pete Ward, Irsay’s longtime right-hand man and the teams chief operating officer, made the announcement in a statement from the team. He said Irsay died peacefully in his sleep. “Jim’s dedication and passion for the Indianapolis Colts in addition to his generosity, commitment to the community, and most importantly, his love for his family were unsurpassed,” Ward said. “Our deepest sympathies go to his daughters, Carlie Irsay-Gordon, Casey Foyt, Kalen Jackson, and his entire family as we grieve with them.” After his father moved the Colts from Baltimore to Indianapolis in 1984, Irsay had a profound impact on the franchise. With Hall of Fame general manager Bill Polian, Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy and Manning, Irsay helped turn the Colts from a laughingstock into a perennial title contender. But Irsay had battled health problems in recent years and became less visible following a fall at his home. Police officers from Carmel, Indiana, a northern suburb of Indy, responded to a 911 call from Irsay’s home Dec. 8. According to the police report, the officers found Irsay breathing but unresponsive and with a bluish skin tone. Ward, the report said, told officers he was worried Irsay was suffering from congestive heart failure and that Irsay’s nurse had said Irsay’s oxygen level was low, his breathing was labored and he was “mostly” unconscious. A month later, he was diagnosed with a respiratory illness. During his annual training camp news conference last summer, Irsay told reporters he was continuing to rehab from two subsequent surgeries — though he remained seated in his golf cart. Irsay did not speak during the recent NFL draft as he typically did. He had also battled addictions to alcohol and painkillers. Irsay began his football life as a ball boy after his late father, Robert, acquired the team in a trade with the late Carroll Rosenbloom, who took over the Los Angeles Rams. The younger Irsay then worked his way up, becoming the youngest general manager in NFL history at age 24. He succeeded his father as owner in early 1997. He also collected guitars, befriended musicians and often found inspiration in rock ’n’ roll lyrics. This article will be updated. View the full article