Training Camp: Ravens top concern is always going to be injuries

Injuries are always the top thing the Baltimore Ravens should be concerned about. We start with the number one training camp fear, injuries:

The Ravens have always had a bit of bad luck when it came to injuries. One would have thought that the Ravens would have exhausted all their bad luck in 2015 where it felt like the whole team was dropping like flies. Injuries don’t work that way. They’re unpredictable and inevitably a story this time of year. Baltimore has already had key players missing practice time.

The most concerning practice absence has been that of Hayden Hurst. The rookie tight end has missed several days of practice per reports, because of a soft tissue issue. While soft tissue issue would make a great band name, it’s not something you want to hear about a 1st round pick that needs all the practice time he can get. This could easily be nothing significant, but it’s eye opening nonetheless. If this is a problem this time next week, you may start to worry.

Update: Hurst returned to practice today, according to Jeff Zrebiec on Twitter

The Ravens offense is not filled with superstar talent. They have good players that when put together could achieve great things. They need every part of the plan to come together and Hayden Hurst and Mark Andrews, who also missed a day of practice, are needed to perform.

The Ravens have a longer time in camp because they have to get ready for the Pro Football Hall of Fame game. The Ravens will be in town to see Ray Lewis inducted in the hallowed hall in Canton; which is nice, but it poses a logistical problem. Baltimore has five preseason games to get through.

The good thing is they have more time to work with, which can help them work at a slower pace for players who need it. With Jimmy Smith’s injury history, you always have to be aware that a setback can happen at any time. Marshal Yanda is on the PUP list due to offseason surgery but he should be good to go when John Harbaugh really needs him.

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One thing that is important to remember is that the Ravens have to take a long-term approach. This is very early in training camp. If there is any warning sign with a player, the Ravens shouldn’t push it with them. Injuries can always pile up, the team must be diligent. They must avoid injuries and they must be careful with the concerns the players already have.