One of the Ravens’ premier pass rushers, Kyle Van Noy, is unlikely to play against the Philadelphia Eagles this Sunday due to ongoing hamstring and neck issues.
Van Noy, who shares the team lead in sacks (eight) with Odafe Oweh, hasn’t participated in practice this week. Known for his resilience, Van Noy has only missed seven games over the past seven seasons, none with the Ravens.
“He’s dealing with a couple of things,” Head Coach John Harbaugh stated on Friday. “Nothing major, but it’s something that will be a game-time decision on Sunday, so we’ll have to see.”
If Van Noy is unable to suit up, rookie Adisa Isaac might see increased playing time, and it could also lead to David Ojabo being active after being a healthy scratch in four of the last five games.
Roquan Smith Ready to Return
Linebacker Roquan Smith (hamstring) is set to return after sitting out Monday’s matchup against the Chargers. He practiced throughout the week, fully participating on Friday, and has no injury designation for the upcoming game.
This is a significant boost for a Ravens run defense that will face Saquon Barkley and the Eagles’ top-rated rushing attack.
While Malik Harrison performed admirably in Smith’s absence last week, Smith’s presence on the field is undeniable. He ranks third in the league with 110 tackles.
Michael Pierce Nearing a Return from Injured Reserve
Smith’s return may not be the only reinforcement for Baltimore’s run defense. Nose tackle Michael Pierce (calf) fully practiced on Friday and could be activated to the active roster for Sunday’s contest, having missed the minimum four games.
“His readiness is key,” Harbaugh remarked. “We’re up against a formidable offensive line, so having him would be beneficial, but he needs to be at his peak.”
Ravens’ defensive tackles Travis Jones (ankle/rest) and Broderick Washington (knee/rest) returned to practice at full capacity after missing Thanksgiving and are both expected to play.
Eagles’ Starting Cornerback Out; DeVonta Smith Uncertain
The Eagles face more injury challenges than the Ravens, with six-time Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay (concussion) ruled out and starting wide receiver DeVonta Smith (hamstring) listed as questionable.
Slay hasn’t practiced since sustaining a concussion last Sunday in Los Angeles. His absence might prompt the Eagles to move talented rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean to the outside or give more playing time to rookie cornerbacks Kelee Ringo or Isaiah Rodgers.
Smith returned to practice on Thursday, participating in a limited capacity then and on Friday. He leads the Eagles with 41 receptions and is second in receiving yards with 516.
When asked about his availability for Sunday, Smith said, “I’m unsure. It’s not solely my decision.”
Even if he could decide, Smith mentioned he’s uncertain about playing after already missing a game. He’s been on the injury report with the hamstring issue since Week 10.
The Eagles added three players to Friday’s injury list: linebacker Ben VanSumeren (knee/out), wide receiver Johnny Wilson (hamstring/questionable), and safety Sydney Brown (knee/questionable).
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