First Ravens Week 11 injury report does nothing to calm pass-defense concerns

The Baltimore Ravens enter Week 11 with their sights set firmly on the AFC North crown, but last week’s rollercoaster win over the Bengals showed just how much work they still have to do.

After struggling in the first half, Baltimore’s offense fired on all cylinders, with Lamar Jackson making the impossible look easy to pull out a 35-34 victory. But while the offense delivered, the defense left fans on edge, especially the pass defense, which allowed Joe Burrow to complete passes at will *cough* *cough* Ja'Marr Chase.

Baltimore’s secondary is just as much a concern now as in Week 1, and injuries only complicate things. Star safety Kyle Hamilton exited the game early, and his status remains uncertain as the Ravens prepare to face the Steelers.

Pittsburgh will test this defense again with their own passing attack, led by a revitalized Russell Wilson and a receiving corps led by George Pickens who will seemingly catch any and all deep balls Wilson throws.

They're coming off their own victory over rookie QB Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders. Just don't ask Steelers' head coach Mike Tomlin to compare Daniels to Jackson.

The team brought in veteran cornerback Tre’Davious White to bolster the defensive backfield. However, White emphasized that he wants to “earn” his role, meaning Ravens fans shouldn’t expect an immediate impact. Without Hamilton and with White easing his way in, Baltimore’s ability to control Pittsburgh’s passing game is very much up in the air.

With their season’s trajectory on the line, Baltimore needs health and resilience heading into Pittsburgh. Here's this week's initial injury report.

First Ravens injury report for Week 11 against the Pittsburgh Steelers

This Ravens-Steelers matchup has major AFC playoff implications and a tight divisional race on the line. If the Ravens want to steal a win, they'll need to limit Pittsburgh’s passing game - something they haven’t done well with all season. Their pass rush hasn't been consistent enough, allowing opposing offenses to sit back and pick apart their secondary.

Unfortunately, the Raven's first injury report leaves a lot to be desired.

Did Not Participate:

• S - Kyle Hamilton (ankle)
• LB - Kyle Van Noy (illness)

Hamilton’s absence is the biggest red flag here. Coming off an injury in Cincinnati, his loss is vital to the Ravens’ ability to contain big plays over the top and limit intermediate routes. Van Noy’s status is also notable, as his pass-rushing presence has been the most consistent Baltimore's had this season. Without their best defensive back and pass rusher, the Ravens' defense could be in big trouble.

Limited Participation:

• TE - Isaiah Likely (hamstring)

The good news for Baltimore is the return of Isaiah Likely, who missed last week’s game with a hamstring issue. Likely’s presence could offer another offensive weapon for Lamar Jackson, who’ll need every option he can get against a tough Steelers defense.

It was great seeing newcomer Tre-Davious White out there on the field, getting work in with the secondary. If the Ravens handle his playing time like receiver Diontae Johnson's, expect White to seldom take the field in Week 11.

The Steelers' offense has hit a new mojo since incorporating Wilson into the starting lineup. It's no secret Baltimore's pass defense is the worst in the NFL. Especially after watching Burrow throw for 428 yards and four touchdowns against the Ravens last week, the initial report is concerning.

The winner of this game will be the leader in the AFC North and widely considered a bonafide Super Bowl contender. Let's hope the Ravens get healthy and ready for this divisional Week 11 clash.

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