The Baltimore Ravens face an intriguing challenge in Week 6, squaring off against the Washington Commanders. Washington’s rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels, has overtaken the league, showcasing poise and athleticism.
Baltimore’s secondary will need to be sharp, and that’s where Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey’s health becomes a critical factor. His ability to neutralize top receivers and create turnovers could be the key to slowing down Daniels and keeping the Commanders' offense in check.
Humphrey leads the Ravens' defense this year in interceptions with two. Furthermore, per Pro Football Focus, his coverage grade is 70.4, which ranks highest on the team. Baltimore needs their All-Pro corner to play.
After leaving the Week 5 game against Cincinnati in a walking boot, fans immediately started worrying Humphrey might be out for a while. With his injury history, the panic was understandable, and the sight of that boot only made things worse. But honestly, the boot was more of a precaution than anything serious.
Ravens CB Marlon Humphrey, who declined to talk to reporters several times, left the locker room in a walking boot.
— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) October 6, 2024
The ankle injury suffered against the Bengals doesn't look like it'll keep him out of today's game against the Commanders. Humphrey is expected to play today.
#Ravens All-Pro CB Marlon Humphrey, who was limited this week with an ankle injury, is expected to play today, source said.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 13, 2024
Humphrey’s injury history and his impact this season
Humphrey’s 2023 campaign was filled with lower leg injuries, including:
- August 15: Foot surgery, sidelining him for the first four games.
- November 12: Calf strain vs. Cleveland, costing him two games.
- December 31: Re-aggravated the calf injury vs. Miami.
Those setbacks made it difficult for the Ravens to establish consistency in the secondary. But this season, he’s bounced back in a big way, leading the team with two interceptions. Even with the minor scare last week, it’s clear he’s playing at a high level again.
The Ravens will need every bit of it today.
Humphrey’s availability is crucial against the Commanders
With Humphrey relatively healthy and active, the Ravens have a stronger chance of containing Jayden Daniels. He's the most accurate passer in the NFL His ability to shadow top receivers, disrupt routes, and force turnovers is critical to Baltimore’s game plan.
A confident Daniels could exploit mismatches if the Ravens’ secondary isn’t at full strength, but having Humphrey healthy is a massive win. Even though the passing defense has been carved up all season long, Humphrey hasn't played much of a part in the dumpster fire the Ravens call a passing defense.
In fact, he's been limiting big plays all year.
The only NFL cornerbacks to not allow a 15+ yard reception this season (via @PFF):
— Carlos Talks Pats (@LosTalksPats) October 3, 2024
Tariq Woolen
Marlon Humphrey
Christian Benford
Christian Gonzalez 👀
The #Patriots young star has not skipped a beat after his rookie campaign was cut short due to injury. pic.twitter.com/bFLdGf7T9u
If Baltimore is going to contain Daniels and maintain their winning ways, it will start with Humphrey locking things down on the outside. Expect No. 44 to play a huge role in what should be an exciting matchup.
Check here for updates if anything changes regarding Humphrey's status.