Ravens take practice field with heavy hearts over Modell's passing

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — With the backdrop of former team owner Art Modell’s passing on Thursday morning, the Ravens continued preparations for their season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals.
During the first 30 minutes of practice open for media viewing, running back Ray Rice hadn’t appeared on the field after meeting with the media two hours earlier. Typically a late arrival to the practice field on most days, Rice did not appear to be dealing with any trace of an injury when talking with reporters, which could be an indication that he was simply later than normal taking the field.
The team will release its first injury report of the week on Thursday afternoon, which will provide more clarity regarding Rice’s level of participation in the practice.
Offensive lineman Jah Reid (calf) was not dressed out for practice as he watched Thursday’s workout from the sidelines. The second-year player appears unlikely to play against the Bengals and has dealt with a calf injury since June. He has experienced two different setbacks since initially being carted off the field on the final day of mandatory minicamp in mid-June.
Safety Sean Considine (concussion) was practicing with a red non-contact jersey and hadn’t taken his baseline test as of Wednesday.
Tight ends Ed Dickson (shoulder) and Dennis Pitta (hand) were both present and working during the opening portion of practice after both expressed thoughts of being game-time decisions on Wednesday. Despite their conservative comments, both players are expected to play on Monday night.
In memory of Modell’s passing, the Ravens will honor the former owner’s memory prior to kickoff and players will wear a black circle with white letters spelling out Modell’s initials “ABM” for the entire season.
Despite typically wearing their black jerseys for home games in primte time, the Ravens will be dressed in their purple jerseys against Cincinnati.