Ravens running back Ray Rice is unsigned as the team’s franchise player and not participating in the offseason workout program, but he says there’s no reason for Baltimore fans to worry about whether he’ll be ready to go when the time comes.
In fact, Rice is confident that he and the Ravens are going to have their best season since he got to Baltimore.
“When we get to the season, I’m going to do my job and bring a Super Bowl back to Baltimore,” Rice said, via BaltimoreRavens.com.
Rice has been saying all offseason -- starting with a January appearance on PFT Live -- that he’ll be playing with the Ravens in 2012 regardless of whether he got the franchise tag or not, and regardless of whether he ends up signing the franchise tender or reaching an agreement on a long-term contract. Rice also says that his contract status will have no bearing on what kind of shape he’s in when he does report.
“I actually have the burning to desire to come back, not only for myself, but to come back ready to play,” Rice said. “My training has always been part of my routine. Nobody ever had to beat me in the head to work out.”
So even if it’s a few month before Rice signs, he says Ravens fans don’t need to worry: He’ll be on the field and at full speed for Week One.