Harbaugh: Conditioning an issue for Trent Richardson

For Trent Richardson, it's the same old story -- and it could rob him a chance at rebooting his NFL career.

Richardson, the No. 3 overall pick of the 2012 NFL Draft, has struggled with conditioning throughout his pro career, and Ravens coach John Harbaugh believes the issue led to a hamstring injury that kept the running back out of the first week of organized team activities.

"Trent just needs to get healthy," Harbaugh said, via ESPN.com. "I think the workload and the amount of work it takes to be a world-class conditioned athlete is something that he's working on right now. That's what he needs to understand, and that's where he needs to get himself."

The Ravens waited until April 18 to sign Richardson because they wanted to see if he could get into acceptable shape and stay that way. Weight issues and injuries have haunted Richardson during an unproductive NFL career that has included stops with the Browns, Colts and Raiders. He spent last season out of football.

"When he gets himself (in shape), he's got talent," Harbaugh said. "I'm very certain he'll get there. And when he does, we'll be able to evaluate him."

Richardson can't afford to be on the sideline right now. Baltimore has multiple backfield options, including Justin Forsett, Buck Allen, Kenneth Dixon, Lorenzo Taliaferro and Terrance West. Already a longshot to make the team, T-Rich's uphill climb is getting steeper.