Ravens' Madubuike practices for first time in 10 months after neck injury

Nnamdi Madubuike took the field Wednesday for the first time in nearly a year, a significant milestone for a Ravens defensive tackle who underwent career-threatening neck surgery and spent 10 months in recovery. According to ESPN's reporting, the 28-year-old passed his physical and was removed from the physically unable to perform list, clearing the way for his first practice since early September.

Madubuike suffered the injury in Week 2 of last season and missed the Ravens' final 15 games. He underwent neck surgery in April, with his doctors believing he would be able to resume playing this season. The Ravens initially placed him on the PUP list Saturday as a precaution entering training camp, but the team indicated throughout the offseason that his rehabilitation was moving in the right direction. In May, coach Jesse Minter said Madubuike was participating in certain parts of the offseason workout program and was "trending in the right direction."

Madubuike's return addresses a critical weakness in Baltimore's defense. The Ravens finished 24th in pass defense last season and recorded 30 sacks, tied for the second-fewest in franchise history. From the start of 2023 until he was placed on injured reserve on September 27, Madubuike's 21.5 sacks were the most by any NFL defensive tackle during that stretch. His 69 career quarterback hits are the most on the Ravens since 2020. After a breakout 2023 season in which he recorded 13 sacks, Madubuike signed a four-year, $98 million contract that included $75.5 million guaranteed. His $22 million salary this season ranks second among all interior defensive linemen.

Last year the Ravens were one of five teams with a pass rush win rate below 30 percent, per ESPN Analytics. The team has addressed the position by signing edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, who has 74.5 sacks over his last six seasons. Still, Madubuike's availability represents a primary piece of the defensive rebuild.

Several factors remain unresolved. Madubuike has not spoken to reporters since the injury, leaving his direct statement on medical status or readiness absent from the record. Ravens officials were vague about his long-term status during the season, indicating earlier uncertainty about his return. The injury was described as career-threatening, reflecting meaningful risk even after surgery and recovery. Tight end Mark Andrews said Tuesday: "I know how badly he wants it and how much playing here means to him."