NFL News 2016: Baltimore Ravens in Hot Water for Using Full Pads at Rookie Practice
The Ravens have violated the collective bargaining agreement, barring teams from suiting up in full pads until the time of training camp comes.
The Baltimore Ravens are currently facing an investigation by the NFL for a potential violation regarding the use of full pads.
In a report by Jamison Hensley for ESPN, the Ravens have violated the collective bargaining agreement, barring teams from suiting up in full pads until the time of training camp comes. The said rules during the offseason has become stricter since 2011, upon the approval and passing of the agreement.
Hensley's report adds that a team official was unaware of any investigation, but also pointed out a five-minute period last May 6, wherein rookies and first-year players were clad in full pads during a non-contact, punt protection drill.
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The team also reasoned that the rookie mini-camp did not require for the said rules to be followed, and once they have received clarification from union representative Benjamin Watson, players were immediately pulled off the field.
Another argument that the Ravens team official brought up was that for an investigation to begin, a player must report that a violation was indeed committed to the union or the league, adding that it can all be verified since the practices were recorded on film.
In another report by Scott Polacek for Bleacher Report, the Ravens are fresh off a disappointing 2015 season, with a record of 5-11, which caused them to miss their second playoff appearance since 2007. The current CBA has been met with criticisms over the past years.
In a 2014 report by Mike Florio for NBC Sports, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh questioned the working hours and responsibilities of each player, which were reduced since the agreement was passed.
"The [NFL] management council and the [NFLPA] have got to get together and help us as organizations and coaches help our young players develop as people and players," Harbaugh said. "I mean, come on. You hold us responsible and want us to be a factor in their lives like the mentoring program and things like that. Give us a chance."
