The Baltimore Ravens welcomed tight end Dennis Pitta back to the practice field on Wednesday. He underwent surgery after he fractured and dislocated his hip during training camp and was on injured reserve – designated to return.
He could run the last few weeks, now he can practice with the team.
Pitta can practice for three weeks before the Ravens have to decide if they want to place him on the 53-man roster. It is unlikely he will play Sunday, but no one is saying when he might return to the field.
Head coach John Harbaugh said they will take it one day at a time and see how it goes. He was non-committal about Pitta’s return date.
Pitta he feels good, but will take it slow:
“It feels awesome to be able to get back and be in meetings with the guys and be able to hit the field a little bit,” Pitta said after Wednesday’s walkthrough. “I feel great. I’m going to take it slow though and make sure I can integrate myself back in, and I’m feeling good.”
Losing Pitta was a huge blow to the Ravens offense, Pitta was one of quarterback Joe Flacco’s favorite targets. Last season Pitta had 61 catches for 669 yards and seven touchdowns.
Tight ends Dallas Clark and Ed Dickson have not filled the void left by Pitta’s absence, a return would definitely help the Ravens struggling offense.
Pitta is in the final of year of his contract, he signed a one-year restricted free agent tender in May. He maintains that the upcoming contract was not part of his decision to return to the field.
I was happy to hear the good news and much as I want Pitta to play again this season I wonder what kind of impact he would have after missing most of the season. Only time will tell, for now I wish him the best in his recovery.
Zennie Abraham