The Baltimore Ravens’ pass rush is prepared to get a bit stronger with David Ojabo re-entering the lineup. Will he be ready to go in Week 11?
The bye week came at a good time for Baltimore as it allowed many formerly injured players to get a much-needed week of rest.
Mark Andrews and Gus Edwards were spotted at practice on Wednesday as arguably the two most high-profile names in the offense, but on the defensive side of the ball, rookie David Ojabo has been generating some media buzz as well.
Head coach John Harbaugh spoke to reporters about Ojabo’s progress so far in 2022 and believes the rookie could make his NFL debut in Week 11, though plenty of factors are at play.
Ojabo tore his Achilles in March and was projected to start practicing in October, and he indeed made his debut in practice roughly four weeks ago.
Right now, Baltimore seems optimistic about Ojabo’s chances to play on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers, but the team will likely stay cautious and avoid rushing Ojabo into game action before he’s ready.
Ravens’ David Ojabo is itching to play in his first game after the bye week
John Harbaugh said he thinks OLB David Ojabo (Achilles) could make his NFL debut on Sunday. Ojabo is a second-round pick who was considered a first-round talent before tearing his Achilles on his Pro Day.
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) November 16, 2022
The second-rounder out of Michigan was touted as a talented pass-rusher with high upside despite playing just 20 games during his college career.
His torn Achilles no doubt hurt his draft stock, but the Ravens were willing to take a chance on the late bloomer — seven months later, Ojabo is set to potentially take his first snap.
His emergence coincides with a timely resurgence in the pass-rush unit with veteran Tyus Bowser also on his way to recovering to full health. Jason Pierre-Paul returned to practice on Wednesday, too; Justin Houston wasn’t spotted but likely took a rest day.
Halfway through the 2022 season, the Ravens’ outside linebacker corps finally looks to be shaping up after the bye week, forming a diverse group of both rookies and experienced pros. Odafe Oweh and Justin Houston may retain their starting spots for now, yet expect changes to come in the next few weeks.
So far, everything is going according to plan. Ojabo will play in his first Baltimore Ravens game soon enough.