Getty Images

After the Patriots drafted long snapper Joe Cardona from the Naval Academy in the fifth round last year, he was able to work out an arrangement that allowed him to both play for New England and satisfy his commitment to serve in the Navy.

That may provide a framework for the Ravens to have Keenan Reynolds on the field this season. The Ravens drafted Reynolds in the sixth round last week and Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus said on The Dan Patrick Show Thursday said he would do whatever he can to make sure Reynolds can both play football and serve the United States.

“I’m confident we can work something out for Keenan to do both … play football and serve our country,” Mabus, who also said that a sequel to Top Gun is in the works, said.

Reynolds played quarterback in Navy’s triple option offense and set the NCAA record for rushing touchdowns and touchdowns from scrimmage in a career. The Ravens are listing him as a wide receiver and may also be in the mix to return kicks.