The Baltimore Ravens are getting more and more concerned. Then came the news that they would be without defensive lineman Broderick Madubuike this week. Madubuike is in the second year of a four-year, $98 million dollar deal, with $75.5 million guaranteed. His absence leaves a huge hole in the lineup.
Madubuike began experiencing symptoms following the Ravens’ win against the Cleveland Browns in Week 2. After that, he went through additional testing to find out what kind of leukemia he had. The Ravens don’t know at what point in the game Madubuike’s torn pectoral injury occurred. This lack of clarity leaves them in the dark without a concrete timeline for his return.
Truthfully, Head Coach John Harbaugh admitted his fears over the possible long-term consequences of Madubuike’s injury. As such, it may be an understatement when Cohen said that, “I would say I am concerned about it,” adding that the threat was grave. “I’m not really in a position to comment on it right now,” he walked back. “I have not yet been authorized to speak about it at this stage.”
Madubuike’s absence left huge holes in the Ravens’ defense. They haven’t played well up front, allowing a mind-boggling 207 yards rushing up the gut just last week. This figure marks the largest amount of rushing yards allowed in that category. ESPN has been tracking this stat since 2006.
Madubuike sat out of practice on Wednesday. His replacements, Michael Pierce and Broderick Washington Jr., missed. Harbaugh clarified, “He’s not going to play this week.” He hinted that the organization is planning for the short term without him.
Madubuike’s injury unleashes a new wave of uncertainty for the Ravens. They all have to dance around this added difficulty as they work to hold onto their defensive power. Harbaugh is staying positive on the backups, too, saying, “I feel really good about those guys. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the need to monitor the situation closely: “We’re going to have to see going forward when they know what they need to know.”
The Ravens have a rough stretch in front of them. They’re focused on doing everything they can to mitigate the pain of losing a major weapon like Madubuike. The implications of his injury could shape their performance in upcoming games as they strive to maintain their competitive edge.
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