On Wednesday, the Ravens added veteran cornerback Amani O’Raiye to its practice squad, adding much-needed depth to the position due to injuries suffered by their starting trio, which includes Marlon Huffprey, Nat Wiggins and Chidobe wuzie.

Oruwariye enters his seventh NFL season. He was originally a Lions 5th-round pick for 2019, and he played 36 games in Detroit over four years. The 29-year old spent 2023 on the Giants and Jaguars practice squads, and only made one appearance with the Jaguars. In 2024, he started five games for the Cowboys despite his struggles. He was the sixth worst cornerback in terms of yards allowed per target.

The Ravens do need depth and beggars cannot be choosers. Oruwariye is a defensive player with a lot of experience. He has played just under 3,000 defensive snaps. Oruwariye hasn’t been a regular special teams player in his career. He may only be promoted from the practice team if Baltimore desperately needs another cornerback on defense.

Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that the Ravens hosted veteran linebacker Eric Kendricks on Tuesday for a tryout. However, the 33-year old left Baltimore without signing a contract. Pelissero’s exact words – “Kendricks refused an offer to begin on Baltimore’s Practice Squad” – indicate that he’s looking for a place on a 53 man roster, whether it’s with the Ravens.

Kendricks will be able to play a part in Baltimore’s defensive scheme immediately, with Roquan Smith out. He is more experienced than all four Ravens inside linebackers put together, but he could be benched when Smith returns. It’s understandable that he might be looking for a longer-term commitment or a bigger opportunity. Kendricks may be willing to accommodate the Ravens’ wishes if they feel he will help them in their current situation.

This could very well be true. His age does not seem to have a significant impact on his performance. The veteran 10-year-old has made 142 career starts and nine seasons in a row with at least 100 tackles. In 15 starts in 2024 for the Cowboys, he had 138 tackles. He also recorded two interceptions and three passes defended.

Kendricks, as a free agent linebacker in particular for Week 4, is a very attractive signing. Ja’whaun Bennett, Kyzir white, and De’Vondre Campell are also available at this position. Bentley and White both play for the Titans and Steelers practice squads respectively. Campbell is also a free agent.