The Baltimore Ravens may get some much needed run game support in the upcoming matchup against the Chicago Bears. Running back Latavius Murray, who has been out with an ankle injury since October, is likely to get back on the field. Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network:
#Ravens RB Latavius Murray, out since mid-October with an ankle injury, is expected to play today, source said. He is listed as questionable.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 21, 2021
Original Ravens' starter J.K. Dobbins is likely out for the season with an ACL tear, so the return of Murray could be a huge boost for Baltimore. Prior to his injury, Murray had four rushing touchdowns for the team.
Ravens' star quarterback Lamar Jackson, however, may be out himself due to an illness not related to COVID-19. He will be a game-time decision against Chicago, per Stacey Dales of NFL Network:
#Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (Illness – not Covid, not the Flu – but a “sickness” he can’t shake) is officially a “gameday decision” in Chicago vs. the #Bears
— StaceyDales (@StaceyDales) November 21, 2021
After a 5-1 start to the season, the Ravens have lost two of their past three games, and are looking to bounce back. Though they are 6-3 and at the top of the AFC North, their division rivals aren't far behind, including the Steelers and Bengals. Winning against a lowly Bears team could alter their playoff hopes, as the remaining games left on their schedule aren't as easy. Opponents after Chicago include the Browns, Steelers, Rams, and Packers, all of whom have postseason aspirations to a certain regard.
The comeback of Latavius Murray is likely to be a huge boost for the Raven's run game, but Jackson's return will also be necessary for Baltimore in the long run.