As the Baltimore Ravens set their sights on a potential Super Bowl berth for the first time since the 2012 season, the spotlight falls on two key players, tight end Mark Andrews and cornerback Marlon Humphrey. Both athletes have been battling significant injuries, raising concerns about their availability for the crucial postseason matchups.
Andrews has been working hard behind the scenes to heal his injury and get back to playing when his team needs him the most, even though he has been out for 10 weeks. Ravens fans were glad to hear that the tight end might be coming back because they were worried about what the future held.
Ravens officially activate TE Mark Andrews from IR
Mark Andrews is set to make his comeback in the crucial AFC Championship Game clash against the Kansas City Chiefs this Sunday. After being sidelined due to an ankle injury that prematurely ended his regular season, the tight end has diligently worked his way back to full fitness, participating in full practice sessions over the past two weeks.
For Andrews, who has been dealing with Type 1 diabetes, his return to the field serves as a source of inspiration and motivation. Despite facing the challenges posed by his medical condition, Andrews remained determined to make his comeback, dedicating himself to extensive workouts and rehabilitation sessions at the Under Armour Performance Center.
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh commended Andrews’ resilience and toughness, emphasizing the physical and mental fortitude required to overcome such a setback.
“I would say an amazing amount of toughness. Physical toughness in terms of the work he put in and the physical pain he went through. I saw him in the training room. Very painful injury, very painful rehab.”
The Ravens carefully managed Andrews’ return, strategically designating him to return from injured reserve on January 12, thereby activating a three-week window for his potential comeback.
Now, with Andrews back in the fold, the Ravens’ offense receives a significant boost, with the former All-Pro tight end poised to resume his pivotal role in the team’s playoff campaign.
Prior to his injury, Andrews had been a key playmaker for the Ravens, showcasing his talent with 45 receptions, 544 yards, and six touchdowns.
Why was Mark Andrews placed on injured reserve?
Mark Andrews took a terrible hit in Week 11 of this season that put him on the injured reserve list. A Bengals defender named Logan Wilson hit Andrews from behind and broke his leg during that game. The controversial “hip drop” hitting move caused instant worry, which is why Andrews had to leave the game early.
The team’s head Coach later confirmed the severity, labeling it a probable season-ending ankle injury with reports indicating a cracked fibula and ankle ligament damage.
Second-year tight end Isaiah Likely stepped up admirably in Andrews’ absence, providing a much-needed spark to the Ravens’ offense with five touchdowns in the final five games of the season.
Despite the setback, Andrews’ indomitable spirit shone through as he is ultimately able to return to the field. Meanwhile, the player himself expressed his eagerness to return to the field and give his all for his team and city.
“I can’t tell you how excited [I am].This is what I love to do. I love to play football. I love the Ravens. I love this city. I’m going to give them everything I’ve got,” he said, per the Baltimore Ravens.
His return couldn’t come at a better time for quarterback Lamar Jackson and the Ravens, as they aim to secure a Super Bowl berth with a victory over the Chiefs in the NFL Conference Championship Game.
