Ravens OT Eugene Monroe ‘very optimistic’ to play vs. Patriots
The hulking blindside protector of Joe Flacco believes he can play against New England.
Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports
Despite missing the last two games with an ankle injury, Baltimore Ravens tackle Eugene Monroe believes he will play Saturday afternoon against the New England Patriots, according to Aaron Wilson of the Baltimore Sun.
Monroe worked in individual settings before practicing on a limited basis this week. Monroe has not played since the Ravens lost to the Houston Texans in Week 16. While it is still uncertain if Monroe can play against New England, the tackle feels it is a distinct possibility.
“Making some pretty good progress,” Monroe said. “It’s definitely positive. I feel like time is on our side. The game isn’t until Saturday midday. I’m taking it day by day and seeing how this thing ends up. Very optimistic, but it’s a tricky little deal. We’ll see how it plays out. Today was a major step.”
With Monroe sidelined, Baltimore made the playoffs with a win and some help the following week against the Cleveland Browns before defeating the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC Wild Card round. If Monroe cannot play against the Patriots and pass-rusher Chandler Jones, rookie James Hurst will earn his third straight start. Last week, Hurst was beaten to the tune of six quarterback hurries, earning the lowest grade (-5.9) among Ravens' offensive players from Pro Football Focus.
“I’m not going to press too much,” Monroe said. “If I’m not ready, I’m not. I’m doing everything in my power to be back.”
Kickoff is at 4:30 p.m. ET at Gillette Stadium.
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