Two former Bearcats may play together for the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens.
Wide Receiver Bailey Gaither signs with the Ravens after an excellent career with the San Jose State Spartans. Former Bearcat Josh Oliver, who played with Gaither at San Jose State, is also on the Ravens. He was selected by Jacksonville in the 2019 NFL draft, but ended up with the Jaguars. Oliver played tight end with the Spartans.
Former Bearcat Coach Rich Schimke says it’s great to see the two Bearcats advance to the next level, “They were both three-year starters for us at Paso Robles High School. To see them advance through San Jose State and now reach the pro-level makes Paso Robles and their families really proud. I’m just really glad for them.”
The Ravens will reduce their roster from 80 to 53 in about a month. Schimke says, “Bailey improves his stock by his ability to play special teams. Right now, they have 12 receivers, and they’ll only keep about seven. It’s a battle of attrition. He just needs an opportunity.”
Gaither and Oliver benefited from playing for the Spartans. San Jose State Head Coach Brent Brennan played wide receiver at St. Francis High School in San Jose and UCLA. He graduated from UCLA in 1996. From 2001-2004, Brennan coached wide receivers at Cal Poly under Head Coach Rich Ellerson.
The Baltimore Ravens will host the Tennessee Titans on Thursday, August 11th in an exhibition game. They play at Arizona Sunday, August 21st. They host Washington in their final exhibition game on August 27th. Oliver and Gaither may see playing times in each of those games. The Ravens open their regular season September 11th at the New York Jets.
