Ogden Makes Happy Return to the Ravens

OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Jonathan Ogden didn't line up for a single play or drill Wednesday during the Baltimore Ravens' second day of mandatory minicamp. Although his lingering left big toe injury prevented his participation, his mere presence delighted his teammates and coaches.

A few weeks ago, it wasn't a given.

Ogden, an 11-year veteran and 10-time Pro Bowler at left tackle, returned from the brink of retirement this offseason. His departure would have meant three new starters on the offensive line.

Instead, the organization can count on Ogden to help solidify a young offensive line that has undergone a significant transition.

"The guy's a Hall of Famer; that says enough in itself," said center Mike Flynn, Ogden's teammate for the past nine years. "Not only his leadership, but in his ability to play. Talent alone, we need him."

Teammates and coaches agree that Ogden's 2006 season was his best in several years. Ogden, 32, helped Baltimore set a franchise record for fewest sacks allowed (17) and made the Pro Bowl for the 10th straight season. That he performed so well under mental and physical duress impressed those around him even more.

Ogden's father, Shirrel Ogden, died on the eve of last year's training camp from complications related to open-heart surgery.

Baltimore allowed Ogden to leave the team, and he didn't return until Aug. 19. His father regularly attended Ravens games, and the two were close.

Then, as Baltimore pushed toward the AFC North championship, Ogden hyperextended his left big toe. It cost him the last two games of the regular season and continues to hamper him.

After all that, no one was surprised that Ogden considered retirement. He made the decision to return shortly before the NFL draft in April.

"I came to the conclusion that it still can be fun, I still want to do it and I'll come back and give it a shot," said Ogden, who will turn 33 on July 31.

"A lot of factors just weighed into it. I just decided, 'You know what, the toe's going to be okay, we were close last year and I want to try to get another ring before I go.' "

Robert Anderson, a foot specialist, did not recommend offseason toe surgery for Ogden because the tendon still is attached to the bone, Ogden said. Instead, Ogden intends to rest the toe until training camp with the understanding that the injury could linger into the season.

"It's just one of those things that just will continue to probably nag me," Ogden said, "but hopefully it won't be too bad once training camp and the season start."

Ravens Note: Linebacker Terrell Suggs, who has one year left on the rookie contract he signed in 2003, said he will not hold out of training camp. "I don't get bothered by contract talk," he said. "I just line up and play."