The Baltimore Ravens have been following the “next man up” mentality for all of the 2021 season, as they’ve had to go through multiple losses on both sides of the ball due to injury. Even so, they’ve put together a 6-2 record and stand on top the AFC North through nine weeks.
On Tuesday, Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic reported that Baltimore had protected four players on their practice squad ahead of their Week 10 matchup with the Miami Dolphins in running back Nate McCrary, guard James Carpenter, guard/defensive tackle Kahlil McKenzie and inside linebacker Joe Thomas.
Ravens four practice squad protections this week: RB Nate McCrary, G James Carpenter, G/DT Kahlil McKenzie and ILB Joe Thomas.
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) November 9, 2021
McCrary could be an option to get elevated to the active roster for Thursday if fellow running back Latavius Murray is unable to play as he continues to nurse an ankle injury. Carpenter could provide interior depth on the offensive line, while McKenzie could take snaps at multiple positions. Thomas could be used as an extra inside linebacker, especially with the absence of Malik Harrison.