Head Coach John Harbaugh gave a couple of key injury updates after Saturday's rookie camp practice.
Two of the biggest recoveries to watch this summer are that of guard/tackle Kelechi Osemele and running back Bernard Pierce.
Osemele was shut down after seven games last season because of an ailing back. He had surgery and has been rehabbing and strengthening for the past six months.
"K.O. [Kelechi Osemele] looks good," Harbaugh said. "He's been out here; he's been 100 percent in what we've been allowed to do so far. So, we have seen really no issues with him at all."
Osemele will be expected to regain a starting position on the offensive line, and coaches see him as a potential dominant guard who can also swing out to right tackle if needed. His return to the offensive line could work wonders for the unit, which struggled last season.
Pierce reportedly had shoulder (rotator cuff) surgery this offseason after playing through the injury last year, in which he dropped to averaging just 2.9 yards per carry.
He'll be held out of football school, organized team activities and mandatory minicamp, Harbaugh said.
"He's been allowed to move around a little bit, but we just can't risk him falling on it right now and having a setback," Harbaugh said. "So, you're probably looking at training camp for him, which shouldn't be an issue as long as you don't get a setback."
Pierce could have a huge role, especially early on this season if starting running back Ray Rice is suspended by league commissioner Roger Goodell. Pierce would be the No. 1 running back and probably be backed up by rookie fourth-round selection Lorenzo Taliaferro.
