Tempers flare as Ravens' Nate Wiggins is ejected from practice

On August 5, 2025, the Baltimore Ravens and the Indianapolis Colts held a joint practice at the Under Armour Performance Center in Owings Mills, Maryland. This practice was significant as it provided the Ravens an opportunity to compete with an external opponent ahead of their preseason opener scheduled just two days later. Ravens' head coach John Harbaugh noted that while most starters would not play in the upcoming game, these joint practices serve as crucial game-like reps for the team. Players were eager to face new competition, with Ravens cornerback Jaire Alexander expressing excitement about the practice against the Colts. As the practice unfolded, tensions began to rise. With players vying for their positions, physical altercations became a common occurrence. During a punt return drill, an incident commenced when Ravens cornerback Keyon Martin pushed Colts running back Tyler Goodson late, igniting a skirmish between the teams. The altercation escalated significantly, leading to Ravens second-year cornerback Nate Wiggins being ejected from the practice after he left the sidelines and began throwing punches. Ravens' coach Harbaugh recognized that joint practices often result in increased intensity, especially during special teams drills, and emphasized the need for discipline in these situations. Despite the heated moments, players remain focused on their ultimate goal—improving their skills and preparing for the season. Quarterback Lamar Jackson remarked on the nature of joint practices, highlighting that they provide valuable insights by exposing the team to different defensive strategies and player matchups. Jackson has not participated in a preseason game for several years, making these practices crucial for his preparation. The dynamic between the two teams further fueled the atmosphere, as the Colts were returning to the Ravens’ facility after a long history. The Orioles had previously been involved in similar tense situations, notably a skirmish with the Washington Commanders in 2023, demonstrating that aggressive interactions can be a hallmark of joint practices. Ultimately, these incidents remind players of the competitiveness within training camps, where both teams are evaluated by scouts while also competing for their respective positions. Followers of both teams eagerly anticipate the preseason matchup on August 7, 2025, where players aim to showcase their development after the joint practice experience.