Posted on Oct 19
Ravens' Deonte Harty placed on injured reserve with knee issue, Tylan Wallace to take over punt returns
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Ravens' top returner Deonte Harty sidelined for four weeks due to knee issue.
Why it matters: The absence of Harty, a former Pro Bowl returner, leaves a void in the Ravens' special teams unit and puts pressure on Tylan Wallace to step up as the new punt returner.
What's new: Harty has been placed on injured reserve and did not practice all week, indicating the severity of his knee issue. Tylan Wallace is expected to take over punt return duties in Harty's absence.
- John Harbaugh on Deonte Harty's injury: "He's dealing with a knee issue that's been hindering him."
- No specific person mentioned on Tylan Wallace taking over punt return duties: "With Harty sidelined, Baltimore is expected to go with Tylan Wallace on punt returns."
Yes, but: While Harty's performance this season has been underwhelming in terms of return yards, losing an experienced returner like him can still have an impact on field position and potential game-changing plays.
- Harty ranked 13th in the NFL in punt returns and was second on the team in kickoff returns.
- In his rookie season with the New Orleans Saints in 2019, he earned a Pro Bowl selection as a returner.
What to watch: The Ravens will need to rely on Tylan Wallace, who has shown promise as a playmaker, to fill Harty's shoes and make an impact in the return game.
- Last season, Wallace returned a punt for a touchdown in overtime to secure a victory against the Rams, showcasing his ability to make game-changing plays.
What's next: The Ravens will closely monitor Harty's recovery and hope for a swift return to full health. In the meantime, they will rely on Wallace and potentially explore other options for kick return duties.
- Harty signed a one-year, $1.292 million contract with the Ravens after playing for the Bills, indicating the team's confidence in his abilities.
The bottom line: Losing Harty for four weeks is a setback for the Ravens' special teams unit, but it presents an opportunity for Tylan Wallace to showcase his skills as a returner and make a significant impact on field position and potential scoring opportunities. The team will look to support Harty's recovery while adapting to the temporary absence of their top returner.