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."