Pierce near top condition after overweight offseason

Ravens defensive tackle Michael Pierce said he is close to being 100% and regrets not attending offseason minicamps, which led to him gaining 30 to 40 pounds above his playing weight.

Pierce, who can become a free agent after this season, also said he had a discussion with his agent about whether he should attend or miss minicamps. Some players don’t participate in the camps as leverage in potential contract negotiations.

“There was a discussion but he left it in my hands,” said Pierce, who was listed at 340 pounds last season. “It was a poor decision on my part not to start my diet earlier and get my tail in here and get to the [organized team activities]. I feel like my wheels are turning really well at this point. What do we have — 35 days until the opener

against Miami? Somewhere around there, so the countdown is on and I’m looking forward to it. I’ll be ready for sure.”

Pierce’s weight loss has been noticeable and he said he is at about 85% in terms of playing condition. He has hired a chef and spent numerous hours working with Ravens strength and conditioning coach Steve Saunders and director of sports nutrition Sarah Snyder.

The Ravens need Pierce, 26, to play well this season. He was the team’s top defensive lineman by the end of last season when he finished with 32 tackles but also became a threat as a pass rusher. Pierce is expected to split playing time at nose guard with starter Brandon Williams in one of the sport’s most demanding positions.

In training camp practices, Pierce has looked good, especially reacting quickly on the snap. Combined with Williams, the Ravens might have the best tandem of run stoppers in the NFL.

“Michael Pierce is having a great camp,” Ravens defensive line coach Joe Cullen said. “Michael came back a little heavier than we wanted him, but he has really worked hard to get to where he is today, right now. He’s about close to where we need him, but he’s still not there. But he’s really practicing hard.

“With him and Brandon in there, those are two of the stoutest and best nose tackles in the NFL. We’re going to keep improving there. You will see them playing some together in certain pack