Injury Report: Kelechi Osemele Set To Return When Baltimore Faces Off Against Dolphins
By Samuel Njoku
There's nothing like a blocked field goal returned for a touchdown as time expires to brighten up the spirits of a team. With the Ravens staring defeat in the face on Monday Night, Baltimore was able to grab win number four and are still mathematically in the hunt for a playoff spot. A win against the Miami Dolphins will go a long way towards accomplishing those goals.
One of the obvious reasons for the Ravens struggles this season has been due to injuries. A plethora of players have been lost for the season due to broken bones and torn ligaments, but there are a few players who fall under that gray area. That includes players like tackle Eugene Monroe, who has missed time due to a shoulder injury, who hasn't practiced since suffering an injury against the Rams in Week 11. Monroe has had a big case of the injury bug since his acquisition a few years ago. Luckily for Baltimore, LT James Hurst has filled in for him and done an admirable job. The fan base hasn't been very pleased with Monroe's lack of availability the past two years, but injuries are a part of the game.
Unlike Monroe, Kelechi Osemele will not be missing Sunday's contest against the Dolphins. He practiced all week and will be a much welcomed addition to the offensive line, especially given the unavailability of Monroe. Ryan Jensen has held down the fort for the guard while he recovered, but a player of K.O's ability can only help things for Baltimore on the field.
Chris Canty, Rick Wagner, and Daryl Smith all missed some time during the week on the practice field. But their absences were not related to injury. Usually the Ravens will give their veterans some time off to get much needed rest. There may be more to it than that as it relates to Wagner, but he'll be active on Sunday nonetheless.
Marlon Brown has not had the type of season many expected him to have when the season began. But with the loss of Steve Smith and Michael Campanaro, his services are needed. Just don't expect to get that service on Sunday, as he's listed as doubtful to play due to a back injury. His absence last week coupled with his absence from practice this week makes it hard to envision the wide receiver playing on Sunday.
Add Maxx Williams to the list of players who will miss the game against Miami, since he's yet to be cleared by the medical staff after suffering a concussion against Cleveland on Monday. Due to concussion protocols, he failed to practice this week and Baltimore has already listed him as out for Sunday's contest. Baltimore hopes to get him on the field next week against the Seahawks.
Probable:
Chris Canty, DE (Not Injury Related)
Kelechi Osemele, G (Knee)
Daryl Smith, LB (Not Injury Related)
Rick Wagner, T (Not Injury Related)
Doubtful:
Marlon Brown, WR (Back)
Eugene Monroe, T (shoulder)
Out:
Maxx Williams, TE (concussion)
Samuel Njoku was born and raised in Baltimore, MD and is a graduate of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Samuel has covered the Ravens for Examiner.com since 2010. Prior to 2010, Samuel was an avid blogger and radio personality in Salisbury, MD. Samuel Njoku is a freelance writer covering all things NFL. His work can be found on Examiner.com. You can also follow him on Twitter @Ravens_Examiner.