OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With the final week of the preseason upon us, the Ravens returned to the practice field with their projected starting offensive line working together for the first time.
However, a new injury concern appeared as receiver Lee Evans had his left foot in a walking boot and was not participating in the portion of practice open to the media. He was walking around and even stood on his left foot without any apparent limp or discomfort.
There was no word of an injury suffered against Washington on Thursday, and Evans spoke to reporters following the game with no apparent discomfort. Considering the cautious way in which coach John Harbaugh handles injuries, it’s unlikely the Ravens would have wanted Evans anywhere near the practice field on Saturday if the injury were serious.
Evans missed the final three games in Buffalo last season after injury his left ankle, the same foot on which he wore the boot. He has six receptions for 128 yards and a touchdown in two preseason games with the Ravens since being traded from the Bills in exchange for a fourth-round pick on Aug. 12.
Newly-signed left tackle Bryant McKinnie was receiving his first action with the starting line as Michael Oher moved to the right tackle position. Prior to practice, McKinnie said he currently weighs 370 pounds and wants to get his weight down to 355 for the regular season.
Also returning to the practice field was veteran center Matt Birk, who was working for the first time since undergoing knee surgery near the beginning of training camp. Birk wore a support on his left knee while working with the starting offensive line during positional drills.
Right guard Marshal Yanda was also dressed in full pads and appeared to be working at full strength after practicing three times on a limited basis and sitting out the Redskins game earlier this week.
Cornerback Chris Carr (hamstring) and receiver James Hardy (hamstring) were also taking part in practice after sitting out Thursday’s game.
Running back Matt Lawrence was practicing in shorts while the rest of the team wore full pads on Saturday afternoon.
