Deion Sanders appears primed to make his comeback official.
The seven-time Pro Bowl cornerback is expected to end his three-year retirement and play for the Ravens this season barring any setback in his training regimen or “last-minute change of heart,” a league source told the Baltimore Sun Tuesday.
Sanders, 37, is working out at his home outside of Dallas to test his conditioning. Ravens officials said Sanders has not notified them of any decision.
ESPN reported on its Web site Tuesday that Sanders is “definitely” going to play for the Ravens after seeking counsel from former Bulls superstar Michael Jordan.
“Michael Jordan made it simple for Deion: `If [playing] is still in your heart, go do it,'” the source told ESPN.
Sanders could not be reached for comment, and his agent, Eugene Parker, did not return phone calls.
“Obviously, the talent that Deion represents, if he indeed wants to come back to the NFL, we would love to have him,” coach Brian Billick said.
Although it looks like Sanders will come back and play nickel back, it’s still uncertain when he will actually return.
It was originally believed Sanders would try out for the Ravens in two weeks. But according to ESPN, there is a chance he could wait until October or November to see if the Ravens are still in playoff contention before reporting to the team.
That would not be a new scenario for Sanders. The last time he attempted a comeback was December 2002, when he tried to join the playoff-bound Oakland Raiders before San Diego claimed him off waivers.
A source close to Sanders said nothing is definite with the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
Because of Sanders’ unpredictable personality, it wouldn’t be a surprise if he had a sudden change in attitude if his workouts convinced him that he can’t play at a level consistent with what he has come to expect out of himself, the source added.
