The Baltimore Ravens could be without one of their most important defensive players Thursday night, with starting cornerback Nate Wiggins questionable for their Week 9 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Wiggins is dealing with a stinger and illness after leaving Sunday's loss to Buffalo with an injury. The second-year cornerback participated fully in Baltimore's estimated Monday walkthrough and Tuesday practice before missing Wednesday's session, creating uncertainty about his availability against one of the NFL's most productive passing attacks. The Ravens have also ruled out safety Jaylinn Hawkins because of a knee injury, leaving defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver facing the possibility of multiple changes in the secondary.
Key matchup
TREVOR
LAWRENCE
1,690
Passing yards entering Week 9
Touchdowns/interceptions
17 / 4
Lawrence's statistics through seven games, per NFL.com.
Nate Wiggins' absence could create problems against Trevor Lawrence
Jacksonville quarterback Trevor Lawrence enters Thursday with 1,690 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and four interceptions. Lawrence has been particularly effective under head coach Liam Coen, helping the Jaguars build a 5-2 record while developing one of the AFC's most productive offenses. Wiggins has emerged as an important coverage option for Baltimore, providing speed and athleticism against opposing receivers. His potential absence would force the Ravens to adjust their cornerback rotation while attempting to limit Jacksonville's explosive passing plays.
The Jaguars have several receiving threats, including Parker Washington and Brenton Strange, who can create mismatches when defensive assignments break down. Baltimore cannot afford additional coverage mistakes against a quarterback who can exploit favorable matchups.
T.J. Tampa could see increased responsibilities
If Wiggins cannot play, T.J. Tampa could be asked to take on a larger role in Baltimore's secondary. The Ravens' official depth chart lists Tampa behind Wiggins, giving them an established option to replace the former Clemson standout.
Veteran Marlon Humphrey and Chidobe Awuzie would also remain important to Baltimore's coverage plans, particularly against Jacksonville's talented receivers. Weaver could adjust his defensive approach by using more safety help or changing how frequently his cornerbacks are isolated in coverage.
However, those adjustments could reduce Baltimore's flexibility elsewhere, especially when defending Jacksonville's running game.
Ravens already without safety Jaylinn Hawkins
Baltimore's secondary situation is further complicated by Hawkins' absence. The veteran safety has been ruled out with a knee injury after missing all three practices this week. His absence could create additional responsibilities for Malaki Starks and Kyle Hamilton, who will be important in helping Baltimore communicate coverage adjustments and limit explosive plays.
The Ravens' defensive front must also provide consistent pressure on Lawrence, particularly if the secondary is forced to play without Wiggins. Baltimore enters Thursday at 4-4 after three consecutive losses, making its ability to limit Jacksonville's offense critical. With undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano starting at quarterback, the Ravens cannot afford another defensive performance that forces their offense to chase a large deficit.
Wiggins' final availability will be determined when Baltimore announces its inactive players before Thursday's game.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens could be without top CB Nate Wiggins against Trevor Lawrence
