Keenan Reynolds may defer his military service to pursue his NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens. Reynolds was a sixth round pick by the Ravens.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter made the announcement in his graduation speech to the Naval Academy.

"It is a blessing to hear the news from Defense Secretary Carter today," Reynolds said in a statement. "I am truly excited to proudly serve my country while having the ability fulfill my dream of playing for the best organization in the NFL.

"I would like to thank the Navy for allowing me to represent them while taking advantage of this unique opportunity."

Ray Rice was at the Baltimore Ravens' practice on Wednesday as he addressed the team's rookies.

"[Rice] delivered an important message that included his story, both the good and the bad," the Ravens said in a statement. "He clearly had the attention of our rookies."

It is believed to be the first time Rice has been at the Ravens facility since an acrimonious split between him and the team.

Rice was cut in September 2014 after a video of him hitting his then-fiancée, Janay, drew widespread attention. 

Rice received $1.588 million from the Ravens as part of a settlement in March of 2015.