Pro Bowl defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike practiced for the first time in 10 months on Wednesday, marking a significant moment for the Baltimore Ravens as they begin training camp under new coach Jesse Minter.

Madubuike, who suffered a career-threatening neck injury in Week 2 last season, was removed from the physically unable to perform list after passing his physical. The injury caused him to miss the final 15 games of the season, and he underwent neck surgery in April. Ravens officials had indicated his rehabilitation was progressing well, and he participated in his first practice since early September.

Madubuike's return is a crucial boost for a Ravens defense that struggled with pass rush last season, finishing with the second-fewest sacks in franchise history. His presence, along with the addition of edge rusher Trey Hendrickson, aims to strengthen a defense that had a pass rush win rate below 30% last year. Madubuike, a third-round pick in 2020, has been a disruptive force, recording the most sacks by an NFL defensive tackle from the start of 2023 until his injury. His health had been a major offseason question mark, but recent signs and comments from coach Minter and tight end Mark Andrews suggest optimism for his return to the field.