Ravens Head Coach John Harbaugh was pretty mum on Thursday regarding the topic of the suspension of his best cornerback.
Jimmy Smith has been suspended by the National Football League for the first four regular season games after violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. The league says it found evidence of threatening and emotionally abusive behaviors by Smith toward his former girlfriend.
“Really no reaction other than I think Jimmy put out a statement. The team put out a statement. Everything was said that really can be said. I don’t have anything to add to that,” said Harbaugh.
Fellow starting cornerback Brandon Carr says he was prepared for the news of Smith’s suspension but it still hurts.
“Devastating news. Heartbreaking,” said Carr. “I understand that the situation, the matter. It’s serious with the climate in the world today and what’s going on.”
In a statement Tuesday Smith took full responsibility for his conduct. Carr says Smith understands the discipline.
“We, as human beings, we’re not perfect. Things happen throughout our lives and you have to deal with the consequences,” said Carr. “Jimmy is a professional. He is an adult, a grown man. He understands the ramifications. He understands the seriousness of this matter.”
Smith’s suspension begins on September 1. The Ravens expect Smith to play in the final two preseason games including on Saturday in Miami.
Baltimore is the midst of three games in eleven days, two in six. Harbaugh is trying to look on the bright side regarding the hectic schedule.
“I told the guys this is great preparation for the season because we’re going to have an oddball start to the season. We’re going to play Sunday, Thursday right out of the gate. So, wow what a great opportunity to prepare for that. So, we got just what we needed is the way we’re looking at it,” said Harbaugh.
Both left tackle Ronnie Stanley and offensive lineman James Hurst missed practice again on Thursday. Harbaugh says both of their injuries are minor. He added that he’s confident that whoever is playing on Saturday will be able to protect Joe Flacco.
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