2008 was a memorable year for the Ravens on so many levels. From the unexpected run to the AFC Championship game to the encouraging play of rookie quarterback Joe Flacco, the season brought much joy and excitement to the fans of Baltimore.
But beyond any accomplishment on the field, the most impressive achievement was the courage and inspiration of Director of Player Development O.J. Brigance. The former Baltimore Stallion and Raven continues to influence young players and show us all what it means to be a man.
This past week, ESPN’s Outside the Lines featured Brigance’s remarkable story. It’s difficult to see how ALS has stricken the Super Bowl and Grey Cup champion’s body, but it has not affected his mind or, more importantly, his soul. His story is one of perseverance, faith, and purpose.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XeDauc4fb70[/youtube]
Luke Jones
Luke Jones is the Ravens and Orioles beat reporter for WNST BaltimorePositive.com and is a PFWA member. His mind is consumed with useless sports knowledge, pro wrestling promos, and movie quotes, but he often forgets where he put his phone. Luke's favorite sports memories include being one of the thousands of kids who waited for Cal Ripken's autograph after Orioles games in the summer of 1995, attending the Super Bowl XXXV victory parade with his dad in the pouring rain, and watching the Terps advance to the Final Four at the Carrier Dome in 2002. Follow him on social media @BaltimoreLuke or email him at Luke@wnst.net.
Podcast Audio Vault
Right Now in Baltimore
Regardless of optics, Ravens had to pivot quickly to four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Trey Hendrickson
Of course, the reported four-year, $112 million agreement with the former Cincinnati Bengal is pending a physical.
Ravens sub in Trey Hendrickson for $112 million after passing on Maxx Crosby
We can't say it hasn't been interesting, compelling or without drama. Just before the start of free agency, the Baltimore Ravens agreed to terms with Cincinnati Bengals defensive lineman Trey Hendrickson after nixing a massive deal with the Las Vegas Raiders to bring Maxx Crosby to Owings Mills. Luke Jones and Nestor discuss all of the fallout and the decisions and risk tolerance of Eric DeCosta.
The debacle of Maxx Crosby deal for DeCosta and Ravens
By Wednesday morning before the NFL free agency deadline, Eric DeCosta opted to sign Trey Hendrickson but it was four days with the thoughts of having Maxx Crosby that energized the Baltimore Ravens' fan base right up until an Owings Mills medical nixed the deal. Luke Jones and Nestor discuss the debacle of Maxx Crosby deal for trust amongst players and agents and teams with the Ravens and DeCosta.

















