Ravens plan to sign RB Bobby Rainey

The Ravens have been looking to add depth to the roster in the days leading up to training camp. Today, according to Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun, the team is addressing the running back position, bringing in sixth year man Bobby Rainey.

As noted by Zrebiec, Rainey was with the Ravens once before in his career. The Ravens signed Rainey as an undrafted free agent after the 2012 draft. Rainey was released in early September of that year, but re-signed to the practice squad. Rainey never made the active gameday roster. In November of that year, Rainey went on IR with a knee injury. In August, 2013, the Ravens released Rainey.

Rainey as served as a back up over the course of his career, his best year coming in 2013 as he totaled 566 rushing yards between the Browns and Buccaneers. In addition to rushing, Rainey has been used in a receiving role, hauling in double digit receptions in three different seasons.

In his career against the Ravens, Rainey has rushed for 55 yards on 13 carries, and has two catches for 16 yards.

Rainey could also factor in to the Ravens competition at kick/punt returner. When returning punts, Rainey has 382 total yards on 42 attempts, and has 993 kick return yards on 40 attempts (all stats per ESPN). With Michael Campanaro on the PUP list, and no clear front runner emerging for the kick/punt returner job, Rainey could step in and provide stability as well as production.

Rainey is unlikely to be the starting running back, but he could have an impact at least on special teams if he makes the 53-man roster. While this move is not flashy, it will greatly help the depth at the position if injuries are to strike. Plus, with Kenneth Dixon out to start the year with a four game suspension (and possibly longer now with reports of him having suffered a torn meniscus), Rainey will get extra playing time to prove his worth, and possibly carve out a role for himself in the offense.