Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice is having no trouble keeping in fighting shape, he told the Carroll County Times on Saturday, despite working out on his own.
"Training is something that I never worried about," Rice said. "It's something that you got to want. I actually have the burning to desire to come back, not only for myself, but to come back ready to play. My training has always been part of my routine."
The Ravens applied the franchise tag to Rice, but he has not signed the $7.7 million tender. The two-time Pro Bowl running back wants to reach an agreement with the team on a long-term contract, and was a no-show when the team began its voluntary workout program in April.
The newspaper reported that Rice's agent, Todd France, has been continuing to discuss Rice's contract with the team.
According to the Carroll County Times, Rice has been working out with former Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers running back Brian Westbrook.
"Nobody ever had to beat me in the head to get up and work out," Rice said. "Anybody who knows about my workout regimen, I've probably been through two before noon. Training has never been my issues but obviously, the team camaraderie, the lockout and all that stuff, that's the stuff that you kind of miss with the guys. But as far as being ready, I know I'll be ready."
Rice was in Towson, Md., for Ray Rice Day on Saturday. The event included games, autographs and a luncheon for 600 young fans.
"Ray works," Ravens receiver Torrey Smith told the Carroll County Times on Saturday. "That's one thing that he will do whether he's with us, back in Jersey or around here locally. You know that he's going to work. That's not a concern for anyone."
