Despite NFL training camp coming to a close, one Battlehawk will have an opportunity to prove himself for at least one preseason game. Linebacker Michael Barrett who worked out for the Ravens on Tuesday, has officially signed with Baltimore Wednesday morning. The Ravens reunite Barrett with Head Coach Jesse Minter who was Barrett's Defensive Coordinator at the University of Michigan.
Barrett came out of Michigan in 2024 as a 7th round draft pick to the Carolina Panthers. Over the past two seasons, Barrett had bounced on and off practice squads for the Panthers, Seahawks, Browns, Packers, before his release by the Las Vegas Raiders in August of 2025. Barrett signed with the Birmingham Stallions in October of 2025, before being undrafted during the UFL's allocation draft in January of 2026.
Due to the unofficial "retirement" of Mike Rose, the Battlehawks would sign Barrett to serve as a reserve linebacker throughout the season. Barrett appeared in 7 games for St. Louis recording 12 tackles, and 1.0 sack during the regular season. Due to injuries in the Baltimore Linebackers room to Jamon Johnson, Carl Jones, and Reid Williford, Barrett should have opportunity to earn plenty of reps in an effort to bolster his chances of being a practice squad player.
In a corresponding move, the Ravens placed Center Danny Pinter on season ending IR, to clear a roster spot for Barrett. The former Michigan Linebacker becomes the 72nd UFL player to earn an NFL contract, and the 5th Battlehawk to sign a contract this cycle. The Ravens final preseason game is scheduled for Friday August 28th, against the Washington Commanders.