OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Former running back Ray Rice was back with the Ravens on Wednesday.
Less than two years after having his contract terminated when TMZ released video of an elevator incident in which he struck his then-fiancée and present wife, Rice returned to the team’s Owings Mills facility to share his story with rookie players as part of the Ravens’ player engagement program.
The 29-year-old has not played in the NFL since his release on Sept. 8, 2014.
“Our 27 sessions to our rookies, through our player engagement program, review and teach life management and life lessons,” the organization said in a statement. “Ray Rice, who played for the Ravens from 2008 until 2014, delivered an important message that included his story, both the good and the bad. He clearly had the attention of our rookies.”
Owner Steve Bisciotti said shortly after Rice’s release that he could still envision the three-time Pro Bowl selection having a future role with the organization, but most wouldn’t have expected him to return to the building so soon — even for a one-time speaking opportunity.
Head coach John Harbaugh and general manager Ozzie Newsome are among the members of the organization who have continued to speak fondly of Rice long after the domestic violence incident that sparked one of the most unflattering periods in franchise history.
“I believe in my heart that Ray would be a great addition to us when it comes to trying to steer these guys from what they’re saying, young men to grown men,” Bisciotti said on Sept. 22, 2014. “We’re not starting with a fresh product. We’re starting with 22-year-olds. They’re grown men, so they’re going to make mistakes. And I would hope that Ray would be a great asset to us down the road, or any other team or any other organization.”
