Pushing through the grind of OTAs, several undrafted rookies rose to the forefront during Wednesday’s practice.
The catch of the day was made by undrafted rookie Jahmal Banks from Nebraska, who made a leaping contested grab that drew a huge reaction from teammates. Zay Flowers enthusiastically patted Banks on the helmet when he returned to where offensive players were standing, while Tylan Wallace and several others gave Banks some love.
The depth on this year’s team will make it extra tough for an undrafted rookie to make the initial 53-man roster, but Baltimore has a history of finding undrafted gems.
In addition to Banks’ catch, undrafted cornerback Marquise Robinson from Arkansas made a nice slap-away to break up a pass intended for another undrafted rookie, Xavier Guillory of Iowa State. Robinson was so excited about the play, he mimicked the Nate Wiggins “put them in a box” celebration with his hands.
While the players have yet to put on the pads, the effort has been superb, and Head Coach John Harbaugh credited the daily concentration that players have displayed.
Players let out a huge roar after practice when Harbaugh announced that Thursday’s practice had been cancelled. The Ravens will still have meetings Thursday but won’t return to the field until mandatory minicamp next Tuesday and Wednesday.
“A bunch of guys working hard and trying to make the most out of everything they’re doing while they’re out here, so I really appreciate that,” Harbaugh said. “It’s been fun. We’re getting ready soon to move onto to minicamp, which will be great.
“We’re trying to be intentional about everything we do, understand that what we do, we do it for a reason. I believe they’re really taken it to heart. When you do that, it makes for a better practice.”
Here are more notes from Wednesday’s practice: