The Baltimore Ravens have been preparing for their divisional-round playoff matchup for the past two weeks.
They might not have known their opponent, but after locking up the No. 1 seed in the AFC, the Ravens knew they had extra time to relax and game plan.
While the Ravens have mostly been preparing without him, they could get a key skill-position player back for their matchup with the Houston Texans.
As Ian Rapoport mentioned in a recent “Good Morning Football” segment, Mark Andrews could return in this game.
From @GMFB: #Ravens TE Mark Andrews is closing in on a return to the field, #Bills WR Gabe Davis (PCL) hasn’t practiced this week, plus Bill Belichick will interview again with the #Falcons. pic.twitter.com/o6w355so1e
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 19, 2024
Andrews suffered what was said to be a season-ending ankle injury earlier in the season.
Despite this diagnosis, he appears to be getting stronger, possibly leading him back on the field sooner than expected.
Andrews has been one of Lamar Jackson’s biggest targets throughout his career, and he also started the year that way.
His injury made Jackson turn to other players, who have turned out better than anticipated.
Zay Flowers has stepped up in a big way during his rookie season, and Isaiah Likely has also been an adequate replacement for Andrews.
Despite the team making it work, they would love to have their big tight end back in the lineup.
He is a true difference-maker when he steps on the field.
Even if Andrews is nothing more than a decoy this weekend, the mere thought of him will make the Texans defense place at least one person on him.
This could lead to offensive efficiency from the Ravens’ other skill-position players.
Regardless of his role, Rapoport’s news is an excellent sign for the Ravens as they look to make it to the AFC Championship.
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