As the Ravens put the pads on for the first time Monday at training camp, they probably felt light on right guard Daniel Faalele.
One of the NFL's biggest players last year at 6-foot-8 and 380 pounds, Faalele has lost about 20 pounds this offseason. While he'll hand over that distinction, he hopes it leads to more meaningful accolades.
After starting all 17 games and playing the most snaps on the team last season, Faalele feels primed to break out in his second year as a starter after being challenged to shed weight.
"I just took on the challenge and wanted to feel better, wanted to play better," Faalele said. "I feel good. It was a lot of work, but it was worth it."
Faalele spent much of the offseason working out in Dallas with renowned offensive line coach/trainer Duke Manyweather at OL Masterminds. The gym has worked with some of the top offensive linemen in the game, including Philadelphia Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson.
"We were just putting in work. It was a lot. Sweating every day," Faalele said. "I can feel the difference. Just these past three practices, being able to be out there, be available, and compete at a higher level for longer."
Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum, who plays to Faalele's left, has taken notice.
"Daniel's looked awesome. One, just coming in really good shape," Linderbaum said. "[He] then just continues to get better and better each and every day. I'm excited for Daniel and the things that he's going to be capable of doing this year."
A fourth-round pick in 2022 who hails from Australia, Faalele entered the league as a developmental player with high upside. The Ravens moved him to guard last offseason, hoping to take advantage of his size and strength.
There were some tough moments early last season, including a Week 2 matchup with All-Pro Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby, but Faalele improved throughout the year and finished as a Pro Bowl alternate.
He carried that momentum into the offseason and hopes to keep it rolling into a contract year in his fourth season.
"I just feel 100 times better," Faalele said. "Just being more comfortable in my position. Having those games under my belt, I just have more confidence in myself and my ability. Unleashing my full potential this year is my goal. So, I'm working towards that and it's going to be a fun year."
