The Baltimore Ravens are just a few hours away from kicking their 2023 regular season off when they host the Houston Texans on Sunday, but they keep applying fine touches to their gameday roster as they went on to complete two transactions on Saturday evening while facing a crucial decision at the tight end position.
The Ravens announced the elevation of two Practice Squad players to their active gameday squad for Sunday's opening game against the Houston Texans at M&T Bank Stadium.
We have activated C Sam Mustipher and DB Daryl Worley from the practice squad.
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 9, 2023
The coaches have decided to activate center Sam Mustipher and defensive back Daryl Worley ahead of Week 1 knowing Marlon Humphrey won't be available and he's already been ruled out Sunday.
This move is aimed at bolstering the team's depth on both offense and defense.
The addition of Mustipher to the gameday squad provides the Ravens with a natural backup center as they don't have any other legitimate reserve at the position. Adding Worley adds a multi-position and versatile player to their depleted secondary.
Sam Mustipher, who hails from Owings Mills, Maryland, is set to make his debut as a Raven in this upcoming game if he takes a snap on Sunday. Mustipher did not make the initial 53-man roster, but Head Coach John Harbaugh praised him late in training camp.
Mustipher will assume the role of backup to Tyler Linderbaum on the offensive line, relieving Patrick Mekari of having to go through the growing pains of manning a position he's not a true natural at.
Meanwhile, Daryl Worley, a seasoned veteran with eight years in the league, was a third-round pick for the Panthers in 2016 and he played eight games for the Ravens last season, even making a start, where he recorded eight tackles and defended two passes.
Worley's versatility is a valuable asset as he can serve as a reserve safety and also step in as a cornerback if needed. Additionally, his contributions to special teams are noteworthy and another valuable part of his skill set. Last season, Worley was steadily moved between the practice squad and the active roster, so he's already familiar with these business decisions.
With Humphrey out rehabbing from foot surgery and Damarion "Pepe" Williams on injured reserve, adding Worley to the proverbial gameday fold was kind of expected and surely a must-do move by the Ravens entering the Week 1 matchup against the lowly Texans.