The Baltimore Ravens received their most encouraging injury update of the offseason Wednesday.
Defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike passed his physical and was removed from the active physically unable to perform list, clearing the two-time Pro Bowl selection to return to practice.
Madubuike had been placed on PUP before training camp to continue reacclimating to football activities and allow Baltimore to evaluate his conditioning. Independent spine and cervical specialists had already cleared him to return to the field following surgery on the neck injury that ended his 2025 season.
Passing the Ravens’ physical represented the final medical requirement before Madubuike could resume practicing. Baltimore can still manage his workload as he rebuilds
his conditioning and adjusts to contact, but he no longer faces restrictions associated with the PUP designation.
Madubuike had not practiced or played since suffering the injury during Week 2 last season. The initial diagnosis created questions about his long-term playing future, and he underwent surgery in April.
His return has significant implications for a Ravens defense that recorded only 30 sacks in 2025. Madubuike led all NFL defensive tackles with 13 sacks in 2023 and has recorded 30 sacks and 69 quarterback hits over 78 career games.
Baltimore envisions a defensive front built around Madubuike, Travis Jones, Calais Campbell and a deeper edge group led by Trey Hendrickson and Mike Green. Madubuike’s ability to create interior pressure can prevent quarterbacks from stepping forward to avoid the outside rush.
The Ravens still have five players on PUP: Jones, nose tackle John Jenkins, inside linebacker Teddye Buchanan, outside linebacker Adisa Isaac and cornerback Bilhal Kone.
Madubuike’s removal is the most consequential activation. Questions about when he might play again can give way to a more immediate discussion about rebuilding his workload and preparing him for Week 1.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Nnamdi Madubuike cleared to practice after passing physical
