Ray Rice is closing in on the one-year anniversary of his release from the Ravens and he’d like to be employed by a new team when September 8 rolls around.
Ed Werder of ESPN reports that Rice has been calling teams in hopes of landing a job with someone for training camp this summer. He’s also getting help from a group of supporters that includes former Buccaneers head coach Greg Schiano, who coached Rice at Rutgers, as they also reach out to teams on Rice’s behalf.
Per Werder, one team “seriously considered” making an offer to Rice before their ownership opted against it out of concern for the public relations hit they would face for bringing Rice onboard. Now the running back is reportedly looking for an opportunity to make his case directly to coaches and owners so he can compete for a roster spot this summer.
While there would be a public relations hit, teams have been willing to take them for players they think will help their team. If Rice doesn’t get a job in 2015, his dismal 2013 season and the generally downward trend of running backs nearing 30 will be major reasons why he remains unemployed.