News Summary
The Baltimore Ravens have made several roster changes to their practice squad in preparation for their Week 3 matchup against the Detroit Lions. Notably, outside linebacker Malik Hamm has been re-signed, enhancing depth following Kyle Van Noy’s injury. The team has also placed veteran safety J.T. Gray on the injured list while losing center Nick Samac to the Carolina Panthers. Additionally, Zaire Mitchell-Paden has been elevated to the active roster to strengthen the tight end position as the Ravens navigate injuries and finalize their roster.
Baltimore, MD – The Baltimore Ravens have made significant changes to their practice squad as they prepare for their upcoming Week 3 matchup against the Detroit Lions. These adjustments come as the team navigates injuries and roster updates ahead of their home opener.
One of the most notable moves involves the re-signing of outside linebacker Malik Hamm, a native of Baltimore. Hamm had been released just a week prior to make room for wide receiver Cornelius Johnson. Despite this, the Ravens have opted to bring Hamm back, which enhances their depth at the outside linebacker position, particularly in light of Kyle Van Noy’s hamstring injury sustained recently.
Hamm, who was undrafted in 2023, originally earned a place on the Ravens’ initial practice squad. He experienced a challenging start to his NFL career, missing his first two seasons due to knee injuries. However, he rebounded impressively this summer, showcasing strong performances during the preseason. Coach John Harbaugh has not provided a clear timeline for Van Noy’s return, which leaves the door open for Hamm to play an important role if needed.
In addition to Hamm’s return, the Ravens have also placed veteran safety and special teams standout J.T. Gray on the injured list of the practice squad. A Pro Bowler in 2021, Gray is still awaiting his chance to contribute since signing with the team on September 3, making this an unfortunate setback for both him and the Ravens.
Meanwhile, the Ravens have lost former practice squad center Nick Samac, who has been signed to the active roster of the Carolina Panthers. This move follows injuries to Panthers starters Austin Corbett and Robert Hunt. The change in personnel reflects the dynamic nature of NFL rosters, particularly as teams work through injury concerns.
Further reinforcing their roster, the Ravens have elevated Zaire Mitchell-Paden from the practice squad to add physical blocking capabilities at tight end. This decision is seen as a proactive step toward ensuring they have enough options for their home opener against the Lions.
Player David Ojabo, previously a healthy scratch for the Ravens in the first two games, may also see some playing time if Van Noy is unable to return. The flexibility of the roster remains a point of strategy for the coaching staff as they face off against their upcoming opponent.
The Ravens have been active in retaining a mix of undrafted rookies and seasoned veterans on their practice squad, aiming to build a strong foundation as they enter the middle of the season. Additionally, Robert Longerbeam, their sixth-round draft pick, has been placed on injured reserve due to a knee injury, adding to the team’s injury list.
Another recent development involves the Ravens’ cornerback unit, which has seen some restructuring after rookie Bihal Kone was confirmed to have sustained a season-ending knee injury. This has necessitated a focus on replenishing depth in the secondary to ensure the defense can remain competitive throughout the season.
As the Ravens prepare for the anticipated match against the Lions, they have until 4 p.m. on Tuesday to finalize their roster cuts down to the mandated 53 players. The team’s adjustments highlight a mix of strategic planning and responses to injuries, underscoring the challenges faced by NFL teams as the season progresses.
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Additional Resources
- Baltimore Ravens Official Site
- Ravens Wire
- Fox Baltimore
- CBS News Baltimore
- Wikipedia: Baltimore Ravens
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
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