Baltimore Ravens rookie Keenan Reynolds got the go-ahead from Secretary of Defense Ashton Carter to defer his military service to play in the NFL. "It is a blessing to hear the news from Defense Secretary Carter," Reynolds said. "I am truly excited to proudly serve my country while having the ability fulfill my dream of playing for the best organization in the NFL." Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus recommended that this happen weeks ago. "This is good news, and congratulations to Keenan on his graduation today," general manager Ozzie Newsome said. Reynolds scored 88 touchdowns, rushed for 4,559 yards and scored 530 points. "I would like to thank the Navy for allowing me to represent them while taking advantage of this unique opportunity," Reynolds said. Follow me on Twitter: @AaronWilson_NFL Aaron Wilson covers the Texans for The Houston Chronicle.