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Yesterday, it was reported there was a fight between Earl Thomas III and Chuck Clark during practice. So much so that several players and eventually head coach John Harbaugh had to separate the two. Once the dispute ended, Clark left the field. Most times, training camp arguments and skirmishes happen and it’s nothing. It’s incredibly hot, humid and they’re some of the most competitive people on the planet. Frustrations hit a boiling point, then cool off. Hell, Ryan Jensen and Za’Darius Smith were a near-annual bout in camp during their respective tenures. But according to reports, this may be something greater.
For those saying camp fights happen everywhere and are much ado about nothing, sure, that's usually the case and it might be in this situation as well. But given these are Ravens' two starting safeties and Thomas can be mercurial, it at least bears watching. https://t.co/ZU75EZfmTY
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) August 21, 2020
According to early reports, Earl Thomas is not on today’s practice field and now rumors are stating the teams’ “Leadership Council” would prefer Thomas not be there anymore.
Earl Thomas isn’t out on practice field.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) August 22, 2020
The @Ravens situation with Earl Thomas could come to a head today. Sources said the team's Leadership Council made it clear to decision makers they would prefer Thomas not be around. Cap hit could be issue but "conduct detrimental" clause provides potential avenue for relief
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) August 22, 2020
NFL.com media analyst Bucky Brooks believes the Harbaugh should “pull the plug” on Thomas, as shouldn’t sacrifice the team chemistry for any player.
If Harbaugh wants to keep @Ravens culture right, he has to pull the plug. He can’t sacrifice the chemistry and camaraderie of the entire team for any player, particularly one that isn’t reportedly complying rules and expectations. If the “team” wants ET out, he has to go.. https://t.co/Ru0pDhI7Hc
— Bucky Brooks (@BuckyBrooks) August 22, 2020
What makes this so interesting, outside of the possible reality that the Ravens may part with a near surefire Hall of Fame safety with a Super Bowl victory and five-time All-Pro, is his contract structure. According to reports, if Thomas is cut due to “conduct detrimental to the team,” the Ravens could void his $10 million guarantee for 2020.
Overall, there is nobody the Ravens have or could find to replace the superstar free safety. He’s one of the best in the league and among the greats at his position. Hopefully, things settle down before a drastic and irreversible move has been made.
Update: Assistant head coach David Culley stated it was an organizational decision was the reason why Thomas did not practice today and the head coach will address it.
John Harbaugh isn’t available to the media today, but assistant head coach David Culley said Earl Thomas not practicing today was an organizational decision the head coach will address. #Ravens
— Luke Jones (@BaltimoreLuke) August 22, 2020
Earl Thomas allowed 113 yards, zero touchdowns, 24.2 QB rating, 44.3 completion %, picked off two passes and defended four on 24 targets...
— Spencer N. Schultz (@ravens4dummies) May 3, 2020
But y’all simpletons are STILL trying to talk about him...
He made a play on 25% of the passes thrown at him. That’s UNHEARD OF
According to PFF, over the final six weeks of the regular season, Earl Thomas allowed all of *FOUR* yards in coverage. Four.
— Spencer N. Schultz (@ravens4dummies) March 5, 2020
Yet because 250 pound Derrick Henry stiff armed Thomas, who saved a touchdown by chasing him down, social media would lead you to believe he stinks