The Ravens are gearing up for a physical Week 15 clash with the Bengals, and the timing couldn’t be more critical-not just because of what’s at stake in the standings, but because Baltimore is finally getting some much-needed reinforcements on defense.
On Saturday, the team activated safety Ar’Darius Washington and outside linebacker Tavius Robinson from injured reserve, confirming both are available for Sunday’s divisional showdown. No roster moves were needed to make room-Baltimore had two open spots, and both players now bring the 53-man roster back to full strength.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t just a case of getting bodies back. These are two impact players returning at a moment when the Ravens’ defense needs a jolt.
Baltimore’s defense has hit a rough patch, giving up 59 points over the last two weeks. That’s a concerning trend for a unit that’s been one of the league’s better groups for most of the season. And with the Bengals coming to town-led by Joe Burrow and an offense that can strike quickly-the Ravens will need all hands on deck to slow things down.
That’s where Robinson and Washington come in.
Robinson hasn’t suited up since Week 6, when he broke his foot in a loss to the Rams. Despite missing significant time, he still sits tied for second on the team in sacks with two. That says more about Baltimore’s pass rush struggles than it does about Robinson’s production, but it also highlights just how valuable his return could be.
He’s not a game-wrecking edge rusher-at least not yet-but Robinson brings a well-rounded skill set. He can collapse the pocket, set the edge in the run game, and bring energy to a front seven that’s been inconsistent.
With only 19 sacks on the season, Baltimore desperately needs someone to spark the pass rush. Robinson might be that guy.
Washington’s situation is a bit different. He’s yet to play a snap this season after tearing his Achilles in the offseason.
And with the Ravens trading for Alohi Gilman to hold down the fort at safety, Washington may not slide right back into a starting role. But don’t overlook his value.
Last season, Washington showed off elite instincts in coverage and the kind of positional flexibility that defensive coordinators love. He can line up deep, in the box, or even cover the slot. He forced three takeaways last year-two picks and a forced fumble-and brings a playmaking element that could be a difference-maker, especially in tight games down the stretch.
Whether they play 10 snaps or 50, the return of Robinson and Washington gives the Ravens options-and options are gold in December football. The AFC North is a slugfest, and Sunday’s matchup with Cincinnati is going to be as physical as it gets. Both teams boast top-tier quarterbacks, but in a game like this, the trenches and short-yardage battles might decide the outcome.
Baltimore’s offense will need to lean on the run game and quick passes to keep the Bengals’ defense honest. But on the other side of the ball, the Ravens’ defense has to find a way to get off the field-something they’ve struggled with recently. That’s where Robinson’s edge-setting and Washington’s coverage versatility could quietly swing the game.
With just four games left in the regular season, the margin for error is razor thin. And while it’s fair to question how many snaps either returning defender will play coming off serious injuries, their presence alone is a boost. The Ravens aren’t just getting healthier-they’re getting better at exactly the right time.