Ravens’ Justice Hill Returns for Playoffs Amid Key Injuries

The Baltimore Ravens welcomed back running back Justice Hill for their wild-card playoff game after he missed the final two regular-season games due to a concussion and illness. Hill, the team’s No. 2 running back, last played in the Ravens’ Week 17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium.

Hill’s return comes at a critical time, as the Ravens face the Steelers in the playoffs without star wide receiver Zay Flowers, who is sidelined with a knee injury. Flowers led the team in receptions (74) and receiving yards (1,059) this season, leaving a significant void in the offense. Hill, known for his versatility as a runner, pass protector, and receiver, will play a crucial role in filling that gap.

“Just make plays and do what you always do,” Hill said. “Don’t make the moment bigger than what it really is. I think that’s the thing for all of us, especially now that we’ve been to playoff games, and we’ve seen both sides of it.”

The Ravens also activated Keaton Mitchell as the No. 3 running back, prioritizing his special teams contributions and big-play potential over rookie Rasheen Ali. Meanwhile, rookie safety Sanoussi Brade, who had played in every game since Week 8, was inactive for the playoff opener.

To address the absence of Flowers, the Ravens elevated wide receivers Anthony Miller and Keith Kirkwood from the practice squad, though only Miller will suit up. Miller previously played against Houston and Pittsburgh this season. Deonte Harty, a wide receiver and return specialist, remains on injured reserve.

Head Coach John Harbaugh expressed confidence in the team’s depth. “It’s going to be an opportunity. We’ll move guys around,” Harbaugh said. “We have a lot of weapons, and Lamar [Jackson] will distribute that thing the way he sees fit, play to play.”

On the Steelers’ side, injuries have also played a role. Starting right guard Mason McCormick is out with a broken hand, potentially paving the way for rookie Spencer Anderson to step in. The Steelers are healthier defensively than in their previous matchup with the Ravens, with key players like safety DeShon Elliott and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. returning to action.

As both teams prepare for the high-stakes playoff clash, the Ravens will rely on Hill’s dynamic skill set to help offset the loss of Flowers and keep their postseason hopes alive.