3 Veteran Players In Danger Of Getting Cut
By Brett Foote
Aug 8, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Baltimore Ravens tackle Jah Reid (76) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the Baltimore Ravens 44-16. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
One thing about professional football is few guys are able to make a career out of it. The lucky few that earn a roster spot in the offseason are still fighting to keep that spot as things whittle down to the final 53. There are a number of veteran players on each team that can easily be marked as safe, and some who will inevitably get cut.
The Ravens have some fringe players that are fighting an uphill battle, but they also have some guys who may be on their last chance this offseason. Here are three players who may be losing their scholarship, regardless of name value or draft status.
1. Jah Reid
A third round pick in the 2011 draft, Reid has so far proven to be a bust. Reid started last season with a calf injury and proceeded to hit injured reserve after having toe surgery. In between those injuries, the Ravens tried to insert him as a starter at left guard but he proved to be a liability, committing three penalties, allowing six quarterback pressures, and giving up two QB hits in three appearances.
To top off his much maligned 2013, Reid was arrested on two misdemeanor charges for head butting, punching, and kicking a man, along with punching a security guard, at a Key West strip club back in March. Reid showed up for camp this offseason and promptly injured his calf again. Needless to say, the team has to be growing impatient with Reid and his chances at making the final roster keep growing slimmer with each transgression.
2. Asa Jackson
Jackson was supposed to come in to the season competing with fellow youngster Chykie Brown for the slot cornerback job. The Ravens must not have had full confidence in what they saw after the first camp, because they proceeded to bring in several defensive backs and signed two – Aaron Ross and Dominique Franks.
Jackson was a fifth round pick in 2012 who has already served two suspensions for Adderall use. Coming out of college Jackson was a talented punt returner and has the potential to become a solid slot corner, but the Ravens may not have the luxury of keeping him around to find out if he can. They are thinner at corner than previous years and need guys who can produce right now. Plus, another suspension could knock him out for an entire season or more.
3. Tyrod Taylor
Admittedly, cutting Taylor is a bit of a long shot compared to the other two, but the team is growing tired of his lack of development. John Harbaugh even went so far as to say that the Ravens were “disappointed” with his progression back in March. They drafted Keith Wenning at number 194 overall, further indicating their displeasure and a need for competition.
Taylor came out of college with promising athleticism and potential, but has so far failed to capitalize. While Joe Flacco is young and durable, freak injuries occur all the time in the NFL and teams have to have at least a serviceable backup option. It is conceivable that the Ravens could cut Wenning or try to sneak him on the practice squad, or they could keep three QB’s on the roster. Or, it could be the end of the line for Taylor in purple and black.
Who do you think is in danger of getting cut this year?