The Baltimore Ravens could catch a significant break on Thursday night, as the Jacksonville Jaguars may be without one of the NFL's most productive running backs for their Week 9 matchup at M&T Bank Stadium.
Jaguars head coach Liam Coen said Wednesday that running back Bhayshul Tuten could be a game-time decision because of ankle and foot injuries, according to ESPN's Michael DiRocco. Coen also indicated that he expects starting right guard Ezra Cleveland to play despite knee and ankle injuries.
Tuten's availability is particularly significant for a Baltimore defense preparing to face a Jacksonville offense coming off a dominant performance against Indianapolis.
Bhayshul Tuten's injury could impact Jaguars' rushing attack
Tuten has emerged as one of Jacksonville's most dangerous offensive weapons this season,
earning a 91.9 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, the highest among 47 qualified NFL running backs entering Week 9.
The second-year running back has rushed for 492 yards and three touchdowns on 110 carries, averaging 4.5 yards per attempt. He has also contributed 15 receptions for 181 yards and three touchdowns, giving Jacksonville another explosive option in the passing game.
Tuten is coming off his best performance of the season, rushing for a career-high 104 yards on 16 carries in Sunday's 42-7 victory over Indianapolis. He also scored twice, including a 39-yard touchdown run and a 25-yard touchdown reception, finishing with 159 yards from scrimmage.
However, his availability has become uncertain on a short week.
Tuten was listed as a nonparticipant on Jacksonville's estimated injury reports Monday and Tuesday, raising questions about whether he will be healthy enough to face Baltimore.
If Tuten cannot play or is limited, Jacksonville could increase the workload for Chris Rodriguez Jr., who is also dealing with a hand injury. LeQuint Allen Jr. and Ameer Abdullah provide additional backfield depth.
Ezra Cleveland expected to play against Baltimore
The Jaguars received more encouraging news regarding Cleveland, with Coen indicating that the veteran offensive lineman is expected to be available Thursday.
Cleveland has been listed as limited on Jacksonville's injury reports because of knee and ankle issues.
His anticipated availability would provide needed stability along an offensive line preparing to face a Ravens defense looking to rebound from Sunday's 36-10 loss to Buffalo.
Baltimore enters Thursday's game with a 4-4 record after losing three consecutive contests. The Ravens will also be without starting quarterback Lamar Jackson and backup Tyler Huntley, leaving undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano preparing for his first NFL start.
Jacksonville enters at 5-2 and will look to establish its running game regardless of Tuten's status.
For Baltimore, the possibility of facing the Jaguars without their highest-graded offensive backfield weapon could provide an important advantage. However, Cleveland's expected return would help Jacksonville maintain continuity up front.
Tuten's status will be worth monitoring when Jacksonville releases its final injury report and announces its inactive players ahead of Thursday night's game.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Jaguars could be without NFL's highest-graded RB vs. Ravens in Week 9
