Ravens Searching for Stability as Justice Hill Heads to Injured Reserve

The Baltimore Ravens sit atop the AFC North at 6–6, but their record masks the turbulence beneath the surface. A team once defined by its physical style and explosive offense now finds itself seeking answers on both sides of the ball. Despite marginal defensive improvement in recent weeks, the unit has yet to consistently resemble the dominant force Baltimore expected entering the season.

More troubling is the state of the offense, which has struggled to find rhythm as quarterback Lamar Jackson plays through a lingering injury. His reduced mobility has reshaped the operation entirely, forcing the Ravens to rely heavily on their ground game while limiting the creativity that typically fuels their attack. The slowdown has been noticeable, and each week brings added pressure to adjust.

Those challenges only intensified over Thanksgiving weekend, when backup running back Justice Hill exited the loss to the Cincinnati Bengals with a neck injury. His departure created an immediate void in Baltimore’s offensive depth and further strained a roster already battling attrition. On Monday, the Ravens received confirmation of what they feared: Hill will miss significant time.

As Baltimore prepares for a critical final stretch in a crowded division race, the loss of Hill adds yet another obstacle. With questions mounting and limited room for error, the Ravens enter December in search of clarity, health, and momentum.

1. Hill’s Injury Adds to Offensive Concerns

Head coach John Harbaugh announced Monday that Justice Hill will be sidelined for three to four weeks due to the neck injury suffered on Thanksgiving. Hill was placed on injured reserve on November 27, though Harbaugh made a point of keeping the door open for a potential late-season or playoff return. That optimism underscores Hill’s value as both a runner and multipurpose contributor. Hill’s injury is particularly impactful given the current state of Baltimore’s offense. With Lamar Jackson limited physically and the passing game struggling for consistency, every layer of support around the quarterback becomes crucial. Hill’s absence further narrows Baltimore’s options at a time when versatility is essential. Although Derrick Henry remains on track for another 1,000-yard season, the veteran back has carried an immense workload as defenses crowd the box against a less-mobile Jackson. Hill’s change-of-pace ability offered balance that helped mitigate that pressure. Without him, the margin of error shrinks. The timing also complicates Baltimore’s efforts to climb out of its offensive slump. Hill’s skill set—particularly his work in space and on passing downs—was well-suited to compensate for Jackson’s current limitations. Now, that safety valve is gone during a critical stretch.

2. A Versatile Piece Lost at a Difficult Time

Statistically, Hill’s numbers may not command attention, but his role extends far beyond traditional box-score metrics. In 10 games, he logged just 18 carries for 93 yards and two rushing touchdowns. Where he made his greatest mark was as a receiving option out of the backfield, collecting 21 receptions for 169 yards and a touchdown, often helping spark drives when Baltimore needed a burst. Hill’s impact also carried over to special teams, where he handled seven punt returns for 188 yards. That production made him one of Baltimore’s more reliable multipurpose threats, capable of changing field position or extending offensive possessions with his speed and agility. His value lies in that reliability—something the Ravens have lacked as injuries pile up. Baltimore now faces the challenge of replicating that versatility without stretching its remaining contributors too thin. Hill’s unique blend of skills, particularly in open space, made him a natural fit in a system that thrives on adaptability. Without him, the playbook tightens subtly but significantly. The absence of Hill’s flexibility becomes even more pronounced given Baltimore’s current offensive identity shift. With the unit unable to rely on explosive plays from Jackson, every complementary piece becomes magnified. Losing one of its most adaptable contributors comes at the worst possible time.

3. Next Men Up: Rasheen Ali and Keaton Mitchell

With Hill sidelined, the Ravens will turn to Rasheen Ali and Keaton Mitchell to round out the backfield behind Derrick Henry. Ali, a 2024 fifth-round pick, has shown flashes of promise but is still adjusting to NFL tempo and responsibility. Mitchell, entering his third year, has offered occasional bursts of speed yet remains an unproven option in a full-time role. Both backs will be asked to fill significant gaps in short order. Baltimore will likely deploy Ali in situational runs and Mitchell in passing scenarios, attempting to recreate some of Hill’s production by committee. Their development over the next several weeks could play a crucial role in defining the Ravens’ offensive outlook. The coaching staff faces an equally important task: adjusting play design to accommodate Hill’s absence while protecting Jackson from further physical strain. More responsibility will fall on the receivers, tight ends, and offensive line as Baltimore seeks balance amid unfamiliar limitations. As the season tightens and divisional races intensify, the Ravens must find stability quickly. Whether Ali and Mitchell can rise to the moment will determine how well Baltimore withstands this latest setback.