‘Early indication’ points to DT Xavier Kelly tearing achilles during OTAs
The Baltimore Ravens feel confident in their 2021 draft class, but they also like the undrafted group that they were able to sign and bring in after the draft. One of the promising players that was looking to compete for a roster spot was defensive tackle Xavier Kelly. However, it appears that an injury will sideline him for the foreseeable future.
It was reported earlier in the day on Wednesday that Kelly had to be carted off of the field with a left leg injury during the second day of voluntary organized team activities. Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic provided some clarity on the situation, saying that the “early indication” is that Kelly has a torn achilles.
Early indication is that Ravens UDFA Xavier Kelly, who played college ball at Clemson and Arkansas, has a torn Achilles. The rookie went down early in today's OTA and was carted off field. Ravens will probably have to bring in another IDL. They only had 3 practicing today.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) May 26, 2021
Kelly played for three years at the University of Clemson before moving to the University of Arkansas for his senior year. He had 30 total tackles and 3.5 sacks in his four years at college, but only played in a total of 21 games.
If Kelly’s injury is confirmed as a torn achilles, Baltimore could potentially look to add another interior defensive lineman. Whether it’s someone who’s just a camp body or a player who could fight for a spot on the 53-man roster, it wouldn’t be shocking to see the Ravens sign someone who can take some of the load off of players like Calais Campbell, Derek Wolfe, and Brandon Williams during training camp and the preseason.
