OWINGS MILLS — A lighter Lamar Jackson was at the Ravens’ first OTA and looked sharp during team drills.
Jackson didn’t know his exact weight, nor did he want to disclose his weight-loss program, but he’s excited to be playing less than “230 pounds.”
“Nah. I’m going to charge for that [information], because people do these [weight] plans and stuff, and they still have their weight on them,” the Ravens’ quarterback said about his weight plan. “No, not to offend anyone or nothing like that, but you’re going to have to pay for that.
“I don’t really know how many pounds I lost. I’m like 2-something [pounds] right now, but I’ll say it was important enough to be able to move around a little bit extra, that’s all.”
When asked why he lost the weight, Jackson replied: “Just so I can be more agile and be able to move more.”
Newly signed running back Derrick Henry was also a full participant in Organized Team Activities. Ravens coach John Harbaugh has been impressed with Henry’s practice habits.
“One thing about Derrick – one of many things – he works,” Harbaugh said. “He is a worker, 100 percent every day, locked in, asks questions, texts his coach at night, ready to go at practice, in the weight room, training room. [I’m] very impressed. This guy is a true pro, ultimate pro.”
The notable absences during the media viewing included: wide receivers Nelson Agholor and Deonte Harty; running back Keaton Mitchell, offensive lineman Patrick Mekari, safety Marcus Williams, outside linebackers Kyle Van Noy and Adisa Isaac and kicker Justin Tucker.
Harbaugh did not comment on those absences except that Mitchell, who suffered a season-ending knee injury last year, will not be ready for the opener on September 5th.
“It’s [going to be at] sometime during the season. So, it’s not right around the corner,” Harbaugh said. “We shouldn’t be biting our fingernails, ‘Is he going to get back?’ But, I will say, he’s on schedule, maybe ahead of schedule. He’s doing really well. He’s always got a smile on his face. He’s going to start jogging on the ‘Ultra G’ next week. So, that’s a positive thing and we’ll see where it goes.”
Malik Cunningham, who is listed on the roster as a quarterback, participated in wide receivers drills. He caught several passes during the 11-on-11 drills.
Devin Leary, a rookie sixth-round pick from Kentucky, was among the quarterbacks and showed his arm strength with several tight passes.
The Ravens announced they will have a joint practice with the Green Bay Packers before the preseason finale on August 24th. Harbaugh did not rule out adding another joint practice with another team.
