In a significant move for the team, the Ravens have elevated veteran wide receiver Keith Kirkwood and defensive back Amani Oruwariye from their practice squad ahead of the crucial AFC North title clash in Pittsburgh this Sunday.
This marks a notable occasion for Kirkwood, as it will be his first game appearance this season. The 31-year-old player has been training with the practice squad throughout the entire year, eagerly awaiting this opportunity. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 210 pounds, Kirkwood was previously promoted for the regular-season finale against the Steelers last year but did not get the chance to play any snaps. Therefore, fans are buzzing with anticipation about his potential debut on Sunday night in Pittsburgh.
Complicating matters for the Ravens, wide receiver Rashod Bateman has been unable to practice all week due to a significant illness caused by the flu, which Head Coach John Harbaugh described as "pretty serious." However, Harbaugh remains optimistic that Bateman will recover in time for the game on Sunday night.
Should Bateman be unable to participate, DeAndre Hopkins is expected to step up into a starting role, joining Devontez Walker and possibly Tylan Wallace in the lineup. Additionally, Kirkwood could also become an integral part of the receiving corps, bringing his size and reliable hands to the field.
On the defensive side, Oruwariye has seen action in one game this season, specifically during the Ravens' late November victory over the New York Jets. While he recorded one tackle, all of his contributions came on special teams, as he did not feature defensively.
Adding to the uncertainty, Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey is listed as questionable for the matchup due to an illness that kept him out of Friday’s practice session. However, Harbaugh has expressed confidence that Humphrey will recover sufficiently to participate in this highly anticipated rivalry game.
So, what does this mean for the Ravens as they head into a pivotal game? Will Kirkwood's elevation prove to be a game-changer, or will Bateman be fit enough to make an impact? And how will the team adjust if Humphrey is unable to play? Share your thoughts below!
