David Reed is back from a one-week suspension, and he could quickly become a prominent figure.
The wide receiver/return specialist wasn’t allowed to practice, attend team meetings or work out with the team last week.
He was also left watching the Ravens in their momentous win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
“It was very disappointing being out against our rivals and everything,” Reed said. “I’m just happy to get it behind me and move on.
“It got me amped. My heart was pounding watching that. It definitely got my hunger up.”
Reed was back in team meetings on Monday. Rookie defensive end Michael McAdoo (knee) went on Injured Reserve, which opened up the roster spot for Reed’s return.
Despite the delayed start to his season, the second-year player could make an impact this Sunday against the Tennessee Titans.
Reed could replace Lardarius Webb as the team’s kickoff returner. He’s listed ahead of Webb in that role on the depth chart.
Webb did have a 37-yard kickoff return to open Sunday’s game, but he also stepped into a starting role at cornerback. The Ravens could opt to keep him sidelined on special teams with their cornerback corps already dealing with an ankle injury to Jimmy Smith and Chris Carr dealing with a hamstring ailment.
Last season, Reed led the NFL by averaging 29.3 yards per kickoff return (21 attempts for 616 yards), including a franchise-record 103-yard return for a touchdown in Houston.
“I think I’m a great kick returner,” Reed said. “I think I showed that a little last year and I can only get better.”
Reed could also contribute on offense, where Baltimore had just one wide receiver catch a pass versus the Steelers.
Anquan Boldin had four catches for 74 yards and one touchdown as Baltimore spread the ball to its two young tight ends and tailbacks frequently. Lee Evans was targeted four times and rookie Torrey Smith once, but neither had catchable balls.
Reed, who is listed on the depth chart behind Boldin, recorded five catches for 84 yards, including a 41-yarder, in four preseason games.
“I can’t wait to show these guys, the coaches and my teammates, that I’m a player,” Reed said. “I feel like I can get in there [this] game.”
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