Baltimore Ravens second-year running back Owen Wright suffered a broken foot and was carted off the field during the team’s preseason finale against the Green Bay Packers, a game the Ravens lost 7-30. This injury adds to the team’s already significant concerns at the running back position. Wright, who joined the Ravens as an undrafted free agent in 2023 and spent most of his rookie season on the practice squad, had secured a small role as the likely kickoff returner and reserve back. Head coach John Harbaugh provided a brief injury update after the game, with more details expected in the coming days.
With Wright sidelined, the Ravens may look to 2024 fifth-round pick Rasheen Ali to fill the No. 3 running back spot, behind Derrick Henry and Justice Hill. Eventually, that role could go to Keaton Mitchell, who is currently on the PUP list after tearing his ACL in Week 14 of last season. Mitchell’s return timeline remains uncertain.
Earlier in the week, quarterback Lamar Jackson had a minor injury scare when he almost fell off a bicycle while greeting fans, but he avoided any serious harm.
Despite the loss of Wright, the Ravens’ running game remains in good hands with Derrick Henry, who has quickly become a key figure in the team’s offense. Henry’s arrival is seen as a perfect fit for the Ravens, who have long been one of the NFL’s most run-heavy teams. His power-rushing style is expected to thrive in Baltimore’s system.
Henry has already expressed his admiration for Lamar Jackson’s leadership, noting, “It’s the type of leader he is, and what he commands out of his guys. The dynamic player he is. I was blown away with some of the throws through camp and OTAs. His arm talent is with the best of them, for sure.”
Head coach John Harbaugh has also praised Henry, emphasizing his professionalism and work ethic. “The main thing that’s stood out is just what a great guy he is, what a hard worker, what a pro,” Harbaugh said. “He’s so diligent, in great shape, and diligent about every single play, everything he does. You can see why he’s been so successful.”
However, Henry is aware of the skepticism surrounding older running backs, particularly those aged 30 and up. Speaking to ESPN’s Jamison Hensley, Henry acknowledged the “stigma” but remains focused on his health and performance. “That’s always going to be said when a running back gets up in age, the stigma on the position,” Henry said. “But I just focus on me being healthy, doing my job when I’m here and then let my play speak for my age.”
As the Ravens prepare for their 2024 regular season opener on the road against the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday, September 5 at 8:20 p.m. EST, they remain optimistic despite the challenges, confident that Henry and Jackson will lead the way.
Coach Harbaugh with injury updates following the preseason finale. pic.twitter.com/ScgAw3Jdt9
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) August 24, 2024
