Ravens waive DT Xavier Kelly and WR Donte Sylencieux

The Ravens announced that they have waived defensive tackle Xavier Kelly and wide receiver Donte Sylencieux.

Kelly’s release comes after reportedly tearing his Achilles in last week’s OTAs. Kelly signed with Baltimore after going undrafted out of Arkansas. After spending his first three seasons at Clemson, Kelly transferred to Arkansas for his senior season. He finished his collegiate career with a total of 30 tackles, 3.5 sacks. 3.5 tackles for loss, and one fumble recovery.

Sylencieux also signed with the Ravens as an undrafted rookie following the draft. Sylencieux played college football at Graceland University but more notably played with quarterback Lamar Jackson in high school at Boynton Beach Community High School. Sylencieux was a favorite target for the 2019 NFL MVP quarterback while the two were in high school together, with Jackson throwing 10 touchdowns to him.

It was always unlikely that Sylencieux would make the final roster given the amount of young talent invested at the wide receiver position for Baltimore. However, the odds were better for Kelly as the Ravens need young depth along the defensive line. Given the team’s history of unearthing hidden gems on the defensive side of the ball with undrafted free agents, it would not have been much of a surprise to see a player like Kelly find a spot on the team if not for the injury.

Both players are now available to be claimed by another team from the waiver wire but will resort to injured reserve if they go unclaimed.