Ravens Place Two Veterans on IR
The Baltimore Ravens have placed running back Justice Hill and defensive tackle Taven Bryan on injured reserve, sidelining two veteran contributors while elevating depth from the practice squad.
The Baltimore Ravens announced a series of roster moves ahead of their Thanksgiving primetime clash against the Cincinnati Bengals, confirming that Justice Hill (neck) and Taven Bryan (knee) have both been placed on injured reserve. The decision means each player will miss at least four games, with Week 17 against the Green Bay Packers marking the earliest possible return.
Impact on the Offense
- Justice Hill: A seven-year veteran with Baltimore, Hill has been a steady presence in the backfield rotation. Though Derrick Henry has carried the bulk of the workload this season, Hill’s versatility in the passing game has been valuable. He recorded 93 rushing yards on 18 carries (5.2 YPC) and added 21 receptions for 169 yards and three touchdowns across 10 appearances phogammedia.ng. His absence shifts more responsibility to Keaton Mitchell, who now steps into the No. 2 role behind Henry.
Impact on the Defense
- Taven Bryan: The defensive tackle, signed earlier this season, has provided depth along the interior line. His knee injury removes a rotational piece from Baltimore’s defensive front, a unit already tasked with slowing down AFC North rivals.
Practice Squad Elevations
To offset the losses, Baltimore elevated Carl Lawson (defensive end) and Chandler Martin (linebacker) from the practice squad. Lawson, a seasoned pass rusher with a $45 million career contract, brings immediate edge pressure. Martin, an undrafted rookie, adds depth at linebacker after impressing in limited snaps.
What It Means Going Forward
The Ravens, sitting at 6–6, face a critical stretch in the playoff race. Losing two veterans at once tests their depth, particularly on third downs where Hill’s reliability has been a hallmark. Head coach John Harbaugh has praised Hill as a “high-caliber running back,” underscoring the significance of his absence.
Baltimore’s roster shuffle highlights the balancing act between maintaining competitiveness and managing injuries late in the season. With Derrick Henry’s workload increasing and Lawson’s activation bolstering the pass rush, the Ravens will lean heavily on both star power and fresh legs from the practice squad.
