OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- The plan was for running back Alex Collins to sign with the New York Jets' practice squad on Sunday after getting cut by the Seattle Seahawks a day earlier.
But the Baltimore Ravens suddenly needed a running back on their practice squad when Taquan Mizzell, who was cut by the team on Saturday, was picked up on waivers by the Chicago Bears.
The Ravens were able to persuade Collins to join their practice squad instead, according to NFL Network. Collins is the new face on Baltimore's seven-player practice squad (there are three spots still open):
RB Alex Collins: A 2016 fifth-round pick of the Seahawks, Collins is one of only three running backs in SEC history to rush for 1,000 or more yards in their first three seasons (Herschel Walker and Darren McFadden are the others). He finished his rookie season strong, gaining 125 yards on 31 carries -- 106 on 21 attempts in the last three games. Collins, 23, reported in better shape this year, dropping 13 pounds to weigh 204.
WR Quincy Adeboyejo: The undrafted rookie out of Ole Miss had a slow start and finish to the summer. In between, Adeboyejo showed big-play potential -- beating each of the Ravens' top corners deep -- and good upside on special teams. He disappeared in the preseason with three catches for 31 yards.
FB Ricky Ortiz: Baltimore didn't keep a full-time fullback on its 53-man roster, so it was important to bring back the undrafted rookie out Oregon State. The Ravens have a history of developing fullbacks, and Ortiz is a sound developmental prospect.
OL Maurquice Shakir: The undrafted rookie out of Middle Tennessee State showed versatility in lining up at guard and tackle. Shakir started the preseason finale at right tackle.
LB Boseko Lokombo: The former Canadian Football League player impressed the Ravens with his play on coverage and return teams, which shouldn't come as a surprise. Lokombo was a special-teams ace for three seasons with the B.C. Lions.
TE Ryan Malleck: Keeping Malleck is a safety net for the Ravens, considering two of their tight ends (Ben Watson and Maxx Williams) suffered significant season-ending injuries a year ago. Malleck has yet to make a 53-man roster but has spent time with the New York Giants and Pittsburgh Steelers.
DB Reggie Porter: The undrafted rookie out of Utah broke up three passes and totaled six tackles in the preseason. Added just before the start of training camp, Porter was originally signed by the Indianapolis Colts after going undrafted out of Utah but he was released in June.