'Disappointing': Ravens React to Ray Rice Announcement

On the first day of official training camp in Owings Mills, the Baltimore Ravens learned running back Ray Rice was suspended for the first two games of the season.

The NFL ordered the two-game suspension and two weeks without pay as punishment for Rice, who was charged with assault as the result of an altercation with his fiancee in an Atlantic City casino in February.

"That night was not typical of the Ray Rice we know and respect," Ravens General Manager Ozzie Newsome said.

"While not having Ray for the first two games is significant to our team, we respect the league’s decision and believe it is fair," Newsome said.

Rice will make his official start with the Ravens on Sept. 21 against the Cleveland Browns.

"It is disappointing that I will not be with my teammates for the first two games of the season, but that’s my fault," Rice said Thursday.

Teammate and friend wide receiver Torrey Smith said that he was looking forward to getting past those two games, "not only so we can have him back ... but to close the final chapter for him," according to the Ravens.
Rice said he wants to move forward as well.

"My goal is to earn back the trust of the people, especially the children, I let down because of this incident," said Rice, who is known for delivering anti-bullying messages to students.

Coach John Harbaugh mentioned the importance of setting an example for children, according to a report from the Baltimore Ravens. "There are consequences when you make a mistake like that..." Harbaugh said. "I think it's good for kids to understand it works that way..."

Rice, who is also a parent, said he was using the incident as a learning experience. "As I said earlier, I failed in many ways," Rice said. "But Janay [his wife] and I have learned from this. We have become better as a couple and as parents."

Related:

• Ray Rice: 'I Won't Call Myself a Failure'
• NFL Officials Make Decision on Ray Rice Suspension
• Rice Admitted to Pre-Trial Intervention Program
• Ray Rice Pleads Not Guilty, Deal Pending
• Day After Ray Rice Indicted on Assault Charge, He Weds Fiancée
• Baltimore Ravens Running Back Ray Rice Faces New Criminal Charge
• Ray Rice Arrested in Atlantic City