Keenan Reynolds Cleared to Play in NFL by US Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter

Baltimore Ravens rookie Keenan Reynolds will be able to suit up for the team this season after having his military service deferred by United States Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter.   

Per Darrin Gantt of Pro Football Talk, the Ravens announced Reynolds would be eligible to play football in 2016 despite still having a military commitment as a graduate from the United States Naval Academy. 

Reynolds released a statement expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to play in the NFL, via Ryan Mink of the Ravens' official website:

It is a blessing to hear the news from Defense Secretary Carter today. I am truly excited to proudly serve my country while having the ability fulfill my dream of playing for the best organization in the NFL. 

I would like to thank the Navy for allowing me to represent them while taking advantage of this unique opportunity. I would also like to thank Mr. (Steve) Bisciotti and the Ravens organization for believing in me and giving me this chance.

Per the Associated Press (via the Baltimore Sun), Carter delivered the message about Reynolds' NFL career as part of his graduation speech to the Naval Academy class of 2016. 

Reynolds has had supporters speaking out in recent weeks, with Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus saying on the Dan Patrick Show (via Mink) that he was "confident" there was a way for Reynolds to play in the NFL and fulfill his military commitment. 

Mabus added that he "can’t think of a better ambassador for the United States Navy or for the United States military than" Reynolds. 

Military obligations have had an impact on professional sports in the past. David Robinson served two years in the Navy after being drafted by the San Antonio Spurs in 1987 before he played in an NBA game in 1989. 

Reynolds is fighting an uphill battle to make the Ravens roster as a sixth-round draft pick, but he does possess great versatility that makes him an intriguing talent.

He's listed as a wide receiver and return specialist on the team's official roster page, so if he shows good ability at either position in training camp, his status could evolve into something more prominent before the regular season starts in September. 

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from Bleacher Report - Baltimore Ravens http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2642797-keenan-reynolds-cleared-to-play-in-nfl-by-us-secretary-of-defense-ashton-carter