Daniel Faalele’s health isn’t a major concern for the Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens drafted a mammoth of a tackle in fourth-rounder Daniel Faalele, who faces an uphill battle to get physically ready for the 2022 season.

The former Minnesota offensive tackle and rugby player weighs in at 380 pounds and ranks as one of the biggest players to enter the NFL, adding a good amount of raw athleticism to Baltimore’s offensive line.

Faalele’s freakish size could be considered both a pro and con: he stands as a massive run-blocker and pass-protector in the trenches, but his mobility is severely limited.

According to reports from Ravens’ minicamp, there were times when Faalele was spotted kneeling on the sideline appearing out of breath, and at one point a trainer got him a Gatorade bucket to sit on allowing him to take a break.

Should Baltimore be concerned about Faalele’s long-term health and his ability to adapt to the physicality of the NFL?

The Athletic’s Jeff Zrebiec recently had this to say about Faalele’s health this offseason:

"“It was interesting to see John Harbaugh defend Faalele during the minicamp. He’s had no problem calling out players in the past for poor conditioning and he did the opposite with Faalele.His response tells me that it’s not a work ethic issue for Faalele. He’s just a really big man. The guy is 6-foot-8 and 380 pounds. He doesn’t look sloppy. He’s just a mammoth human being and he’s going to need to learn what it’s going to take to get through these practices and deal with the heat and humidity.”"

Ravens have little reason to be worried about Daniel Faalele’s physical health

Heading into the 2022 season, Faalele sizes up to be more of a developmental player, and this upcoming year could serve as a redshirt year for the rookie tackle.

Competition on the Ravens’ offensive line will be tough with Faalele likely going up against Morgan Moses for the starting right tackle spot, though Faalele could also plug in on the left side if Ronnie Stanley doesn’t recover in time.

All things considered, the potential is definitely there for Faalele. Earlier this summer, Faalele fanboyed over the opportunity to play with Lamar Jackson, and some pundits have made tentative comparisons between Faalele and former Baltimore tackle Orlando Brown Jr.

While rookie center Tyler Linderbaum will probably secure a starting offensive line spot, Faalele’s floor and ceiling are much lower, and the Ravens won’t rush him onto the field too soon.

Barring another injury plague, Faalele is allowed to be patient with his conditioning as he develops into a starting-caliber tackle.

Though heavier-set than most linemen, Faalele should grow into a larger role on the Ravens’ offense in due time.