It’s unlucky, however accidents are part of soccer. Within the NFL, they occur usually due to how bodily the sport is. Nonetheless, it’s even sadder when accidents happen within the offseason. That’s what’s occurred to Baltimore Ravens security Ar’Darius Washington.
In line with NFL Community insider Ian Rapoport on Twitter, Washington has torn his Achilles. The damage reportedly occurred throughout conditioning, and it doubtless knocks Washington out for your entire 2025 season. An Achilles tear is among the worst accidents in sports activities, and it takes a very long time to totally recuperate.
Washington signed with the Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2021. Since then, he’s labored arduous to broaden his function with the group. Final yr, he even began 9 video games for Baltimore. Many Steelers followers will doubtless keep in mind him because the participant who pressured Russell Wilson to fumble on the purpose line within the two groups’ second assembly final season.
This yr, Washington appeared primed for a much bigger function on the Ravens’ protection. Whereas they chose security Malaki Starks within the first spherical of the draft this yr, Washington doubtless would’ve nonetheless had a presence of their secondary. Now, he’ll most likely need to concentrate on 2026, until he finds a approach to come again towards the tip of this yr.
Even then, it’d take a while for Washington to knock the rust off. Take a look at Aaron Rodgers. He tore his Achilles to start the 2023 season, and whereas he didn’t miss a sport in 2024, he didn’t seem like the identical participant for a lot of the start of the yr.
It took Rodgers time to get again into the swing of issues. Nonetheless, he’s in his 40s, whereas Washington remains to be solely 25 years previous. Subsequently, the Ravens’ security may not have as powerful a time bouncing again.
The Ravens’ protection stepped up in a giant approach to finish the 2024 season, and Washington was part of that. Now, that unit must perform with out him. Maybe that may power Starks to develop and see the sector somewhat faster. Both approach, it’s a blow to a Ravens group that was seeking to contend for a Tremendous Bowl this yr, and it’s a tragic improvement for a younger participant.
