The Baltimore Ravens, boasting a fully healthy 53-man roster, made some tough decisions for their Week 10 clash against the Minnesota Vikings, which resulted in the team listing six players as healthy scratches. Among them, rookie defensive tackle Aeneas Peebles was deactivated for the fourth consecutive game as the Ravens opted to elevate practice squad player Taven Bryan. Despite showing promise in limited action earlier this season, Peebles has fallen out of favor in Baltimore’s game day strategy.
Defensive coordinator Zach Orr indicated a need for “bigger bodies” to improve the team’s run defense, which struggled in the early part of the season. The Ravens faced challenges in their first five games, surrendering an average of 146.5 rushing yards per game; however, that figure has significantly improved to 85.7 yards in the last three contests. This resurgence can also be credited to the return of linebacker Roquan Smith, who had been sidelined with a hamstring injury, and the strategic deployment of safety Kyle Hamilton, who has been playing closer to the line of scrimmage. Defensive tackle Travis Jones has displayed strong performances, particularly in Miami, and rookie linebacker Teddye Buchanan has shown commendable growth.
Although Peebles possesses the size and speed that could fit into Orr’s new pressure schemes, the Ravens’ recent success gives little room for debate. The addition of edge rusher Dre’Mont Jones, who can also play on the interior, has provided Baltimore with added versatility that might explain Peebles’ ongoing deactivation. For the Ravens, securing victories is paramount, even if it means sacrificing the development of younger players.
The full list of inactive players for the Ravens includes running back Rasheen Ali and offensive tackle Joseph Noteboom. This marks Ali’s first healthy scratch of the season. Initially, the Ravens leaned towards his contributions on special teams over Keaton Mitchell’s offensive potential. However, recent injuries allowed both players to be active, leading to Mitchell being chosen this week.
Noteboom was deactivated in favor of rookie Carson Vinson, who has yet to see playing time this season. Despite the return of starting left tackle Ronnie Stanley from an ankle injury, Noteboom’s struggles, evidenced by his low pass-blocking efficiency rating, prompted the change. The Ravens have traditionally favored experienced players, particularly along the offensive line, so this decision reflects a shift in strategy.
Also listed among expected absences are offensive lineman Emery Jones, wide receiver Devontez Walker, and quarterback Cooper Rush. Jones is being handled cautiously post-surgery, Walker is currently crowded out on the wide receiver depth chart, and Rush has been replaced as the backup quarterback by Tyler Huntley, relegating him to emergency duties.
For the Vikings, starting safety Theo Jackson and tight end Josh Oliver—a former Raven known for his proficiency as a run-blocker—will not play. Oliver’s absence may give Baltimore a better opportunity to mitigate Minnesota’s running game, while Oliver’s missed chance for a “revenge game” speaks to how quickly relationships can evolve in the NFL.
Ultimately, as the Ravens continue to solidify their defense and make strategic adjustments, they are demonstrating a commitment to success while navigating the complexities of player development and roster management. With improved performance on the field, fans can remain optimistic about the team’s trajectory for the remainder of the season.