Breaking News: The Baltimore Ravens face a wave of injury concerns, potentially impacting key players and shaking up their game plan.
On Monday afternoon, Head Coach John Harbaugh revealed that cornerback Marlon Humphrey and wide receiver Rashod Bateman could be sidelined due to injuries. This news comes after the Ravens enjoyed a relatively healthy period, making this a significant blow to their roster.
Humphrey, despite playing through a finger injury sustained late last week, which he even played with his left hand heavily wrapped in Sunday's 27-19 win in Minnesota, might require surgery.
"He might need to get something done to tighten it up, which would mean he could play right away, maybe, or it might take a week to come back from that if he does decide to do it (surgery)," Harbaugh stated. "It would be a week at most, I'm told. When you say a week, I'm thinking maybe two or maybe none. If he decides to play with it and keep it wrapped up, then he can play this game (against Cleveland)."
Bateman's ankle sprain is also a concern, though the injury is not expected to keep him out for an extended period. He has made 16 catches for 194 yards and two touchdowns this season.
"I think he's going to be OK. He has an ankle sprain, and we'll see how serious it is," Harbaugh said. "We'll see [whether he'll miss time]. We'll probably know more on Wednesday."
And this is the part most people miss... The injury occurred when Vikings cornerback Isaiah Rodgers tackled Bateman from behind just outside the goal line. Harbaugh noted the play looked like a "hip-drop tackle," a move that has sparked debate about player safety.
In addition to these key players, undrafted rookie inside linebacker Jay Higgins IV could miss a "few" weeks due to an unspecified injury. Higgins has been a contributor on special teams, playing 61% of the snaps and making six tackles.
Harbaugh Wants Keaton Mitchell Even More Involved
Keaton Mitchell continues to impress with his limited opportunities. In the game against the Vikings, he had four carries for 31 yards. His performance included a 22-yard gain, averaging 7.8 yards per carry.
After being inactive for the first four games, Mitchell is averaging 6.2 yards per carry on his 15 attempts. This is impressive when compared to Derrick Henry's 4.8 yards per carry and Justice Hill's 5.2 yards per carry.
Harbaugh was asked if Mitchell should see more action, to which he responded, "Yes, I think more." He added that they are trying to find the right balance, acknowledging the challenge of taking plays away from Derrick Henry while also recognizing the value of mixing things up.
Dre'Mont Jones Showed 'Good Flavor' in Ravens Debut
Defensive tackle Dre'Mont Jones made a significant impact in his Ravens debut, playing 39 snaps (60%) and recording two quarterback hits. Jones showcased his versatility by playing at various positions along the defensive line, including left and right outside linebacker and left defensive end.
"Boy, Dre'Mont; he did well," Harbaugh said. "He got all his assignments right, had all the terms right, and he was versatile along the line – I think we talked about that possibility during the week – and he was a factor. Physicality [and] quickness. He knows how to play the game. He added a good flavor to it."
Ravens Didn't Cause Vikings' False Starts
The Vikings committed eight false start penalties, tied for the second-most by a home team since 2000. Veteran running back Aaron Jones suggested the Ravens' defensive line calls and motions might have caused the penalties. However, Coach Kevin O'Connell stated his players denied this.
Harbaugh clarified that the Ravens did not use any illegal tactics to cause the false starts. He mentioned that the Vikings used various cadence strategies to try and draw the Ravens offside.
But here's where it gets controversial... What are your thoughts on the "hip-drop tackle"? Do you agree with the concerns about player safety, or do you think it's just part of the game? Share your opinions in the comments below!
