With a crucial AFC North showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers looming in Week 14, the Baltimore Ravens are tightening the screws on their roster. The Ravens hosted six players for workouts earlier this week - a clear signal that they're not just preparing for Sunday, they're preparing for January.
Among those brought in for evaluation were running backs Tyrion Davis-Price, Jonathan Ward, and Ahmani Marshall, along with linebackers William Kwenkeu, Kana’i Mauga, and Ty Summers. After taking a close look, Baltimore opted to sign two of them - Ward and Kwenkeu - to the practice squad.
While these aren't headline-grabbing additions, they’re the kind of depth moves that matter this time of year. Ward brings versatility as a back who’s contributed in both rushing and special teams roles, while Kwenkeu adds speed and energy to a linebacker group that could use reinforcements down the stretch. These signings don’t necessarily shake up the depth chart, but they do give the Ravens added insurance heading into the most physically demanding part of the season.
And the Ravens aren’t the only ones loading up. Pittsburgh made a few notable moves of their own ahead of this high-stakes matchup.
The Steelers released veteran cornerback Darius Slay and elevated Asante Samuel Jr. to the active roster. That’s a bold shift in the secondary, especially with Baltimore’s passing game heating up in recent weeks.
Samuel Jr. brings youth and upside - and he’ll likely be tested early and often.
But the biggest swing came with Pittsburgh claiming former Vikings All-Pro wide receiver Adam Thielen off waivers. Thielen may not be in his prime, but he’s still one of the savviest route runners in the league and a reliable target in pressure situations. Adding him at this stage of the season is a clear sign the Steelers are looking for a spark - and they believe Thielen can provide it.
With both teams sitting in playoff contention and the AFC North as tight as ever, every roster move counts. Sunday’s game isn’t just about bragging rights - it’s about positioning for a postseason run. And both the Ravens and Steelers are making it clear: they’re not waiting for the playoffs to start playing playoff football.