The Baltimore Ravens are in a heated fight for the AFC North crown. They get a rematch with the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 15, and after getting embarrassed on Thanksgiving just a couple weeks ago, they undoubtedly have revenge on their minds. Still, they must remain level-headed with their playoff hopes hanging in the balance on pretty much every down from here on out.
Despite losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 14 and falling a game back in the division, the Ravens still control their own destiny. They can get some help to vault back into the playoff picture, but winning out is the easiest road.
While everything is still in front of them, Baltimore is facing adversity. They are losers of two straight, both losses coming against AFC North foes. The team needs to change its tune, and it sounds like at least one key reinforcement is trending towards playing on Sunday.
The Ravens have desperately missed outside linebacker Tavius Robinson and safety Ar’Darius Washington since each of their injuries. Washington tore his Achilles tendon in the offseason, and Robinson broke his foot in Week 6. Reports have signaled a positive direction for Robinson’s and Washington’s status ahead of the Bengals’ game.
In Washington’s case, he seems confident he will suit up in Week 15.
Ar’Darius Washington first said there was a “chance” that he’ll make his season debut Sunday. Then, he labeled it a “strong possibility.” pic.twitter.com/Kvmpzz6jKH
— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiec) December 11, 2025
Ravens’ secondary set for major boost
While Washington could get another week of rest, especially with the severity of an Achilles tear, he has now logged four full practices since returning to team activities on December 3. On Baltimore’s final injury report, Washington was listed as questionable.
Following Friday’s practice, Head Coach John Harbaugh declined to give a firm update on whether Washington and Robinson will play this weekend. Instead, the team will make an announcement on their statuses on Saturday.
“We’ll have that announcement tomorrow.” Harbs on pending game statuses for Ar’Darius Washington and Tavius Robinson pic.twitter.com/W5ZyNXzNyd
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) December 12, 2025
Washington was one of the most impactful safeties in the NFL in 2024. When the coaching staff plugged him into the starting lineup in Week 8, the defense started to take off. He finished the year with an 80.3 overall grade, per Pro Football Focus, ranking eighth among safeties. He also posted an 84.2 coverage grade, which was fifth.
If Washington does play against Cincinnati, he could be in line for an impactful role. While it could be limited due to the quick return from an Achilles tear, matching up against a pass-happy Bengals’ offense could see Defensive Coordinator Zach Orr have big plans for Washington.