Wide receiver Zay Flowers of the Baltimore Ravens is expected to play against the Houston Texans on Christmas Day, following some pre-game uncertainty due to a shoulder injury. The NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Tuesday, December 25, 2024, after Flowers was initially listed as questionable, he has been trending toward participation, likely boosting the Ravens' chances to secure victory against the AFC South champions.
Flowers’ status had been doubtful earlier this week. He was noted as not participating during the first two practice sessions on Sunday and Monday due to the shoulder injury he sustained during the Ravens' impressive 34-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The injury occurred during his last catch of the game, which not only helped him surpass 1,000 receiving yards for the season but also left him wearing a sling afterward.
On Tuesday, Flowers managed to log limited participation during practice, raising optimism within the team’s camp. "I'm pretty optimistic about Flowers’ availability..." said Ravens head coach John Harbaugh during his media availability on Sunday. Flowers has been integral to the Ravens’ offense this season, leading the team with 1,016 receiving yards and four touchdown catches, alongside 71 receptions and 109 targets.
Prior to Flowers' limited practice, he had drawn considerable attention due to his massive contribution to the passing game, having already surpassed last season’s target numbers as he made strides to establish himself as Lamar Jackson's primary target. His absence would significantly impact the Ravens as they aim for the division title and playoff positioning. The Texans, currently chasing playoff hopes, feature strong defensive stats, ranking among the league’s best against the pass, which could complicate matters for Jackson and his offense if Flowers was unavailable or less than 100%.
The news isn’t all grim for Ravens fans, as Rapoport affirmed Flowers is expected to suit up, setting up for his potential Christmas Day performance alongside his teammates, including Rashod Bateman and tight ends Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely, who are also key facets of the aerial assault. Bateman, who has been under the radar due to his foot injury during the season, has shown promise, but the overall offensive pressure would likely mount if Flowers had to take on less than his normal workload.
Compounding the situation, it was reported earlier this week the Ravens would also be without some key players due to injury. Both Nelson Agholor and Justice Hill were ruled out due to concussions, with cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis sidelined by a hamstring issue. These omissions could increase the reliance on Flowers even more, should he be ready to play.
From the fantasy football perspective, Flowers' playing status has serious implications. With many players deep within the playoffs, his availability could sway matchups heavily. Although some caution exists about his potential performance—especially against Texans defense, which ranks near the top for interceptions and fewest passing yards allowed—his talent and Jackson's connection remain promising for fantasy managers.
There’s speculation, too, about how much the Ravens are willing to push Flowers, who already skipped two practices. His injury and practice limitations may indicate his status on the field may not be fully intact. Still, fantasy managers seem poised to roll the dice on Flowers playing, with the possibility he could still accumulate decent numbers even if he's on limited snaps.
With the Ravens fighting for playoff positioning and the Texans aiming to maintain their hopes, Floresauce be the key to unraveling Houston's defense on Christmas Day. Ravens fans can expect to see how Flowers performs post-injury at the 4:30 ET kickoff, hoping he can replicate or build on his recent success this season.
Regardless of the result, Flowers' performance will be under the spotlight, especially as the Ravens look to secure their playoff berth not just this week, but as they continue their push through the postseason. Here's hoping this talented wide receiver is ready to shine bright!
