Michael Phelps kept his word to the Baltimore Ravens, stepping in to share his elite training mindset and even giving a swim lesson to defensive end Travis Jones. During a Ravens practice on Tuesday, Phelps guided Jones through flutter kicks using a pool noodle, a lighthearted moment that came nearly two weeks after star cornerback Marlon Humphrey asked for Phelps’ help in a playful social media post.
The session wasn’t the only highlight of the day. Phelps and Ravens legend Ray Lewis offered motivational messages to the team, underscoring the discipline and dedication that define high-level performance. Phelps spoke about the daily routines that set champions apart: getting up at 6 a.m., the pool time, the recovery, the nutrition and stretching—“all the small things” stacked together. He reminded the team that those behind-the-scenes habits are what enable a racer to win by minute fractions and, more broadly, to excel week after week.
Lewis joined in with his own reflections, challenging players to consider how they use their time. He posed a thought-provoking question about whether they’re wasting, using, or abusing the minutes they have. He stressed that talent is the easiest gift to receive, but what truly matters is what you do with it and how you align it with your purpose. His message echoed the idea that staying connected to one’s mission is essential, even when distractions loom.
The Ravens’ connection with Phelps runs deep. Their collaboration dates back nearly two decades, including a 2008 watch party at MT&T Bank Stadium when Phelps pursued a record-breaking eight gold medals. The relationship resurfaced in 2019 when Phelps ran onto the field from the players’ tunnel to a greeting from Lewis ahead of another game.
Commentary and context:
– This cross-sport collaboration highlights a culture of discipline, focus, and mentorship that the Ravens appear to cultivate, emphasizing that mental as well as physical preparation matters.
– For Travis Jones, a practical takeaway came from the flutter kicks drill, while the broader message from Phelps and Lewis centers on consistently applying small, deliberate efforts over time.
– The moment also reinforces the idea that elite achievement is built on routines and purpose-driven action, a theme that can inspire players across positions.
A hopeful note: the interactions between Olympic champions and NFL stars point to a broader ethos within the Ravens—one that values learning from champions in any sport and translating that mindset into the gridiron. If this exchange resonates with the team, it could foster greater attention to training habits, time management, and sustained motivation as the season approaches.