How does Kyler Murray’s new contract impact Lamar Jackson’s negotiations?
USA TODAY Sports’ Tyler Dragon breaks down Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray’s new contract extension and how it impacts Lamar Jackson’s negotiations with the Ravens.
USA TODAY
The Baltimore Ravens will have to start their season without their main hype man — or bird. Poe, the team’s mascot, was placed on injured reserve Thursday with a “serious injury to his drumstick,” according to head coach John Harbaugh.
“He will not be able to perform for the rest of the season,” Harbaugh said in an address to the media.
Poe was injured during halftime of a preseason game Saturday when he participated in the Mascot Classic, a mascot vs. youth football game. He was carted off the field, but returned in the second half, causing speculation that a second person was in the costume.
Harbaugh said, while trying his best to keep a straight face, that the Ravens will fervently search for Poe’s replacement.
“We’re going to turn over every stone, scour everywhere and find his replacement,” he assured. “We’re going to get right into evaluating our options and see where we go next and see if we can find somebody to replace Poe.”
“Poe’s injury definitely leaves some big shoes to fill for the year. It’s not easy to replace a 10-time Pro Bowler,” Brad Downs, senior vice president of marketing, said in a team statement. “He’s in good spirits and already eager to get back out there. We have no doubt he’ll bring the same energy to his recovery and rehab that he brings to the sidelines and community every day.”
The team has run with the story of the injured mascot with Harbaugh suggesting he was going to get an MRI and the Ravens’ Twitter account posting a photo of Poe recovering with an ice pack on his knee.
MORE: Ravens, John Harbaugh provide update on mascot Poe after halftime injury
SPORTS NEWSLETTER: Sign up now to get daily updates in your inbox
Pro Bowl running back Le’Veon Bell, who spent part of the 2021 season with the Ravens and five seasons with the rival Pittsburgh Steelers, appreciated the good humor that the team is exhibiting.
“speedy recovery for whoever the mascot is, I pray for the best,” he commented on Instagram with praying hands emojis, “but the report itself is lowkey hilarious, i’m not even gon cap.”
The Ravens open the regular season Sept. 11 at the New York Jets.
