BALTIMORE -- Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian in history, made a special appearance at the Baltimore Ravens' training camp, delivering both swimming lessons and life lessons to the players. Phelps, who has won 23 Olympic gold medals, spoke to the team at the end of their practice session before diving into the pool to teach some of the players how to swim.

Phelps' visit was prompted by a social media post from Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey, who revealed that one out of three Ravens players couldn't swim. At Loyola University's Mangione Aquatic Center, Phelps worked with nose tackle Travis Jones, helping him improve his swimming technique. Phelps also shared valuable tips, such as how to keep shoulders tight during strokes.

"I didn't know what I was getting into," Phelps admitted. "I had no idea what their comfort level was. When I see the guys in there, some of them are literally working on floating and breathing, and they're focused on paying attention to those details. It shows their vulnerability, especially when they're uncomfortable."

Some Ravens players even raced against Phelps, who has held several Olympic records, including the 200-meter freestyle and the 200-meter butterfly. All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton managed to technically beat Phelps—but only with a six-second head start.

"I think that's the greatest athlete of all time," said Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley. "To be able to share the water with him and actually swim laps against him, and get coaching points after swimming against him, it was very surreal. I don't know that I've ever felt that way, to be honest."

Phelps' influence extended beyond the pool. Earlier in the day, he watched the team's practice alongside his son, Beckett, and Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis. After practice, Phelps stood in the final huddle and was asked by coach John Harbaugh how to become the best.

"When I stood up on the block at World Championships, the Olympic Games, any major international competition, I knew I was the most prepared human on that pool deck because I know that nobody would have been doing what I was doing day-in and day-out," Phelps told the players. "It's what you do behind closed doors that no one sees that gives you the opportunity to stand out on this field every single week during the season and be great."

To thank Phelps for his time and expertise, the Ravens made a $100,000 donation to his foundation, which promotes water safety. "It was a great day," Phelps said. "I truly hope they learned something, hopefully got some confidence, and hopefully can transition into something else."