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Ravens activate RB Keaton Mitchell, waive OLB Yannick Ngakoue

BALTIMORE – The Ravens, who boast the NFL’s No. 1 offense, are adding an explosive playmaker for Thursday night’s game against the Bengals.

Running back Keaton Mitchell was activated from the physically unable to perform list on Thursday, the team announced. Mitchell, who was a full participant in training all week, has not played since suffering a complete tear of the cruciate ligament in his left knee in December 2023.

Baltimore opened up a roster spot on Thursday when it waived linebacker Yannick Ngakoue. In five games this season, Ngakoue has recorded 1.5 sacks and four quarterback hits.

The Ravens had long expected Mitchell to return sometime in November. As an undrafted rookie last season, Mitchell shocked Baltimore’s rushing attack, averaging 8.4 yards on 47 carries. He totaled 396 rushing yards in eight games, scoring touchdown runs of 39 and 40 yards.

On Monday, Ravens coach John Harbaugh said the team would activate Mitchell “when he’s ready to go and can compete and protect himself.”

When asked if there was a chance Mitchell would play Thursday, Harbaugh said, “There is a chance.”

In Week 15 of last season, Mitchell suffered a knee injury in the fourth quarter of the Ravens’ 23–7 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars when he was tripped by safety Andrew Wingard, causing his left leg to bend awkwardly after landing on it. . Ten months later, on October 23, he returned to practice and Harbaugh described Mitchell’s progress as great.

Mitchell’s speed would complement the strength of Derrick Henry, who leads the NFL with 1,052 rushing yards and 13 total touchdowns. The Ravens offense has been dominant through nine games this season, ranking first in total yards (445.9) and rushing yards (191.9).

Mitchell could also help as a kickoff returner for Baltimore. The Ravens rank 27th in kickoff returns this season, averaging 24.2 yards per return.

The Ravens (6-3) host the Bengals (4-5) on Thursday night and look to complete a second straight season sweep of Cincinnati.

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