PLEASE NOTE: The opinions, analysis and/or speculation expressed on BaltimoreRavens.com represent those of individual authors, and unless quoted or clearly labeled as such, do not represent the opinions or policies of the Baltimore Ravens' organization, front office staff, coaches and executives. Authors' views are formulated independently from any inside knowledge and/or conversations with Ravens officials, including the coaches and scouts, unless otherwise noted.
The Ravens had three starters miss practice on Thursday, as the team officially began the work week in preparation for the Cleveland Browns.
Linebacker Ray Lewis (foot), defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (ankle) and cornerback Fabian Washington (thigh) were all held out of the session.
Ngata has been seen at the Ravens’ training facility with a brace on his right ankle, which head coach John Harbaugh characterized as a sprain last week. If he cannot suit up for “Monday Night Football” in Cleveland, Justin Bannan would likely start in his place.
Washington was the only announced injury to come out of the Ravens’ 17-7 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals last Sunday. His primary backup is rookie Lardarius Webb, who excelled when Washington left the Bengals game in the second quarter.
In addition to the first-team trio, cornerback Chris Carr and linebacker Dannell Ellerbe did not practice because of an illness.
Meanwhile, left tackle Jared Gaither was a limited participant, as he is still recovering from a neck injury suffered on Oct. 4. Baltimore’s full participants included tight end Todd Heap (ankle), linebacker Jarret Johnson (shoulder), safety Haruki Nakamura (chest), safety Ed Reed (wrist) and wideout Kelley Washington (back).
For the Browns, tight end Steve Heiden (knee) and wideout Chansi Stuckey (calf) did not practice.
Linebacker David Bowens (knee), defensive lineman Kenyon Coleman (groin), tight end Michael Gaines (hamstring), offensive lineman Rex Hadnot (knee), running back Jamal Lewis (ankle) and fullback Lawrence Vickers (hamstring) were all limited.
Defensive lineman Coye Francies (knee), center Alex Mack (wrist), tight end Robert Royal (finger) and punter Dave Zastudil (right knee) fully participated.
