Head Coach John Harbaugh honestly didn't know what was going to happen when safety Ed Reed went on a free agency visit to Houston.
But he said he had his fingers crossed.
Harbaugh has been texting back and forth with Reed, keeping in touch as the free agent weighs his options on the market. Harbaugh said he asked General Manager Ozzie Newsome if there was any update Monday night, and got nothing.
Now it's just a waiting game, and Harbaugh is hopeful that his relationship with Reed will keep the Ravens in the conversation.
"I think it's kind of a situation where we know Ed really well," Harbaugh said.
"Ed and I are very close and I know he would tell you the same. We've had text conversations back and forth, which is how we communicate in the offseason. I know he's been with his little guy in Atlanta a lot. I think he's enjoying the offseason."
Harbaugh said he's "very hopeful" Reed can return, but "we'll just have to see how it works out."
"He's had his healthiest year that he's had in the last few years," Harbaugh said. "He was a great leader. Our relationship has just blossomed. It's been good, but this year with Ed especially, we really just got close. The leadership he brought to the team, through Ray [Lewis' triceps injury], was really fantastic."
Harbaugh acknowledged that a deal could be reached at any time, but said he doesn't think it's going to be anything real fast at this point.
Texans Head Coach Gary Kubiak, who was also on hand for the AFC coaches breakfast, is also waiting on Reed's decision. The two talked last week when the Texans flew Reed to Houston on a private jet.
"He's one of the great players I've had to prepare quarterbacks in this league to play," Kubiak said. "I'm very impressed with him. I'm sure he's trying to take his time and do what he thinks is best, but we had a good visit so we'll see what happens."
Harbaugh said it would be "really challenging" to part with a player that has done as much for the organization as Reed has during his 11 years in Baltimore.
Harbaugh said he's more the sentimental person in these dealings while Newsome and Vice President of Football Administration Pat Moriarty, who deals directly with player contracts, can be more business oriented.
"Ed is a first ballot Hall of Fame safety, arguably the best safety that ever played. He's got to be the best ball-hawking safety that's ever played. And so, how do you part? It's just as difficult as parting with Ray," Harbaugh said.
"It's a challenge because we're friends. We've been through much, much together as families. I know Ed's son, he's around the facility all the time. That's the toughest challenge. … But in the end you have to do what's best for the team going forward."
