Ravens place nose tackle Michael Pierce on IR; Lamar Jackson out of Wednesday’s practice
The Ravens’ defensive line took a hit after the team placed nose tackle Michael Pierce on injured reserve, which will keep him sidelined for at least the next four games.
In addition, quarterback Lamar Jackson was not at practice Wednesday as a rest day, according to coach John Harbaugh.
Wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who was acquired by the Ravens from the Carolina Panthers on Tuesday, was practicing with the team. Johnson, 28, has caught 30 passes for 357 yards and three touchdowns this season and will provide Jackson with another downfield threat.
Pierce suffered a calf injury in a 29-24 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. The Ravens also lost defensive end Brent Urban to a concussion and defensive tackle Travis Jones has been slowed by an ankle injury. Urban and Jones were not at practice on Wednesday.
For added depth, the Ravens signed nose tackle Josh Tupou to the practice squad. Tupou, who was with the team in training camp, could be elevated to the gameday roster against the Denver Broncos on Sunday if Urban and Jones are still not available.
Pierce has 15 tackles and one sack through seven games and has played a key role in the Ravens’ No. 1-ranked rushing defense.