Full Breakdown
Ravens Begin OTAs with Competitive Drills and Derrick Henry Knee Scare
5/21/2026, 10:00:30 AM
Coaching Overhaul and Season Outlook
After an 8-9 finish in 2025, the Ravens dismissed longtime head coach John Harbaugh and hired first-year head coach Jesse Minter, formerly a Chargers defensive assistant. Minter’s mandate is to forge a new identity centered on competition and accountability as the team prepares for a 2026 schedule that includes the Colts, Bills, Cowboys and division rivals.
Key Figures and Emerging Leaders
Jesse Minter leads the program, stressing energy and unpredictability. Veteran running back Derrick Henry, entering his 11th season, remains a focal point. Other participants included tight end Mark Andrews, quarterback Tyler Huntley, rookie wide receiver Elijah Sarratt and left tackle Ronnie Stanley, who vocalized the competition. Quarterback Lamar Jackson missed the first two OTA sessions for personal reasons, a detail confirmed by Minter.
Practice Details and Player Participation
The Tuesday session lasted nearly two hours in mid-90s heat, with almost every player attending—a franchise-record turnout. The practice began with a two-minute plank, followed by a medicine-ball throw competition; the losing side performed push-ups. Rookie Elijah Sarratt out-threw cornerback Chandler Rivers, and rookie guard Vega Ioane edged linebacker Zion Young. Henry’s 2025 production included 1,595 rushing yards, 16 touchdowns on 307 carries.
Official Statements on Competition and Player Health
Minter said the medicine-ball drill was meant to “add a new aspect to the practice” and keep players “engaged and accountable.” Henry praised the competitive atmosphere, noting it fosters chemistry and lets players “compete against each other and do things together.” After a knee-grab in an 11-on-11 drill, Henry confirmed he was fine, cleared by medical staff and back in drills within minutes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Right now, you can’t really do the football competition, and so I thought it would be something different, something fun,” — Jesse Minter, Head Coach
- “Yes, the guys love it. It's something different. It gives us a chance to compete against each other and do things together. I think [head coach Jesse Minter] just adds a new aspect to the practice and the vision he has for us, and what he sees that will help us get better.” — Derrick Henry, Running Back
- “The ground felt like a bed for a little while,” — Derrick Henry, Running Back
- “And I saw you all looked hot and bored, so I was like, ‘I’ve got to give them something to tweet and write.’” — Derrick Henry, Running Back
Why It Matters: Building Chemistry Ahead of 2026
Minter’s focus on competition seeks to accelerate team chemistry before training camp. Fun yet demanding drills aim to reinforce accountability and sustain high energy throughout the offseason. A healthy Henry, combined with a cohesive roster, is essential as the Ravens target a playoff return under new leadership.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Live contact is prohibited during OTAs, yet Henry’s knee incident occurred in an 11-on-11 drill, underscoring practice risks. No contradictory reports of his condition emerged; all sources state he was cleared and resumed activity promptly. No additional medical details have been released.
