Injuries have been an unfortunate common theme for the Baltimore Ravens in recent seasons. In 2021 they were derailed by key players being forced out of the lineup and they are in danger of it occurring again in 2022.
An injury to quarterback Lamar Jackson sunk Baltimore in 2021 and while they gave themselves a little more breathing room this time, they have lost their AFC North division lead because of it. Now, a key player from their defense looks like he will be sidelined for a little while as well.
Cornerback Marcus Peters was forced out of Saturday’s loss to the Cleveland Browns because of a calf injury. He did not return to the game and it sounds like he will miss some time. Ian Rapoport shared that Peters suffered a calf strain, and while he will be out for some time, he will return sooner than later.
While not being a season-ending injury is certainly encouraging, the Ravens are certainly going to miss Peters in the lineup. However, schedule-wise, if an injury to a key member of the secondary were going to occur, this is the time for it to happen.
Baltimore is facing anemic passing offenses in their next two games as they are hosting the Atlanta Falcons in Week 16 and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 17. So, even without Peters in the lineup, they should be able to hold their own.
Atlanta has turned their offense over to rookie Desmond Ridder, replacing veteran Marcus Mariota. Rookie Kenny Pickett has been starting since Week 5 for Pittsburgh and while he has shown improvements, the Steelers’ passing offense isn’t striking fear into opposing defenses.
On the season, Peters has compiled 47 total tackles, two tackles for loss and one quarterback hit in 13 games. He has recorded one interception, six passes defended, two forced fumble and two fumble recoveries as well.
Without him in the lineup, it looks as if the Ravens are going to use more multiple safety formations. Despite his injury, Baltimore didn’t play another player listed as a cornerback for a defensive snap. Safety Brandon Stephens saw an uptick in playing time with Peters forced to the sideline instead.
