2. Patrick Mekari, OL, Ravens
Perhaps no return will be as significant as that of offensive lineman Patrick Mekari. Mekari has done an excellent job filling in at right tackle this season with Alejandro Villanueva starting in place of the injured Ronnie Stanley at left tackle.
Despite having little to no experience playing tackle at the NFL level, Mekari solidified a position that looked like a dire need for Baltimore. And that’s been very evident with the 24-year-old sidelined with an ankle injury.
Mekari has missed the team’s last two games since injuring his ankle in that ugly 41-17 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals back in Week 7.
In his place, the returning Tyre Phillips has started while Ben Powers has remained the team’s left guard. The results have been less than stellar.
The Ravens prefer Phillips at guard and would love the opportunity to move him back to the position he started at in Week 1. Mekari’s return will allow that to happen.
Not only will the Ravens be receiving a sizable upgrade at right tackle, but their interior will benefit as well with Phillips likely sliding back to left guard.
Mekari returned to practice in a limited capacity on Wednesday and, much like Murray, appears to be on track to make his return on Sunday.
The Ravens’ offensive line is set for a pretty significant upgrade.