The Baltimore Ravens welcomed star quarterback Lamar Jackson back to practice on Thursday, signaling a positive development for the team’s preparations for their upcoming game. After receiving regular rest on Wednesdays and managing a minor illness, Jackson participated fully in practice this week, which likely means he will be clear of injury concerns by the end of the week.
However, the Ravens’ injury report did reveal that wide receiver Zay Flowers, center Tyler Linderbaum, and defensive tackle John Jenkins were all newly listed with injuries. Flowers is dealing with a neck injury, which is always a concern, yet he was able to practice fully. Linderbaum’s participation was limited due to a knee issue, while Jenkins missed practice because of illness. The potential absence of Flowers and Linderbaum could severely impact the Ravens’ offense, especially with a tough matchup against the Patriots, who boast a top-10 defense.
The full injury report for Thursday indicated the following changes in player status:
**Did not participate:**
– CB Chidobe Awuzie (foot)
– LB Teddye Buchanan (knee)
– NT John Jenkins (illness, changed status)
**Limited participation:**
– LB Jay Higgins (knee, designated to return from injured reserve)
– C Tyler Linderbaum (knee, changed status)
– LT Ronnie Stanley (knee/ankle, changed status)
– OLB Kyle Van Noy (quad, changed status)
**Full participation:**
– WR Rashod Bateman (foot)
– WR Zay Flowers (neck, changed status)
– S Keondre Jackson (ankle)
– QB Lamar Jackson (illness, changed status)
– DT C.J. Okoye (quad)
– LB Roquan Smith (knee, changed status)
The Ravens have not yet moved Buchanan to injured reserve, suggesting they may be waiting to determine if Higgins is ready to be activated from his own stint on IR. As an undrafted rookie in his first week of return eligibility, Higgins might require additional time to get back up to speed.
Cornerback Chidobe Awuzie’s absence is becoming more likely after missing two straight practices, potentially leading T.J. Tampa to take on a larger role. Tampa has proven reliable when called upon, although he has had only limited playing time this season.
Coach John Harbaugh commented that veterans such as Stanley, Smith, and Van Noy are experiencing the typical wear-and-tear associated with the later stages of the season, necessitating some extra rest. Their return to practice on Thursday is a promising sign for their availability in the upcoming game.
Wide receiver Rashod Bateman appears on track to return after a one-game absence, while Keondre Jackson and C.J. Okoye are expected to remain available for the Ravens. Overall, the return of key players like Lamar Jackson and the hopeful recoveries of others brighten the outlook for the Ravens as they head into a challenging match against the Patriots. Their depth and experience will be crucial as they navigate the final stretch of the season.