Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers has been ruled out for the second consecutive game due to a knee injury sustained in early January. Despite initially having a chance to play against the Buffalo Bills, Flowers did not practice all week, leading to his absence. Head coach John Harbaugh had hinted at a possible return but ultimately confirmed his unavailability. The Ravens, who managed to win without Flowers against the Pittsburgh Steelers, now face a tougher challenge in the Divisional Round against the formidable Bills.

Flowers, the franchise's first Pro Bowl wide receiver, could potentially return if the Ravens progress to the AFC Championship Game. Other notable inactives for Baltimore include safety Marcus Williams and nose tackle Josh Tupou. In contrast, wide receiver Anthony Miller is elevated from the practice squad as an alternative for Flowers. The Ravens and Bills are set to kick off at Highmark Stadium shortly.

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Nelson Agholor will not participate in Saturday's regular season finale against the Cleveland Browns, marking his third consecutive game missed. Despite being a full participant in practice throughout the week and lacking an injury designation, Agholor's absence raises questions about his condition, which may have worsened or could be a strategic decision by the coaching staff.

This season, Agholor has recorded 14 receptions for 231 yards and two touchdowns over 14 games. As he approaches free agency, his future remains uncertain, especially with void years on his contract extending until 2028.

Additionally, running back Justice Hill will also miss the game due to a concussion and illness, having been ruled out in advance. Although he has recovered from a concussion sustained against the Pittsburgh Steelers, an ongoing illness hindered his ability to clear concussion protocol. Other players, including safety Marcus Williams, linebacker Adisa Isaac, and center Nick Samac, have been inactive for several weeks. Wide receiver Anthony Miller and defensive end Chris Wormley, recently elevated from the practice squad, join the list of inactives for this matchup.

Mike Preston, a columnist for the Baltimore Sun, is set to engage with fans weekly during the Ravens' season. Following an impressive Christmas Day victory over the Texans, the Ravens, boasting an 11-5 record, are preparing to face the Cleveland Browns (3-13) in a pivotal Week 18 matchup. A victory would secure the AFC North title for Baltimore.

In his latest column, Preston reflects on various reader questions, including potential New Year’s resolutions for the Ravens. He notes the organization’s desire to reach the Super Bowl after a disappointing loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the previous season's AFC championship game.

Preston also addresses inquiries about player communication regarding being healthy scratches, particularly referencing Marcus Williams. He explains that notifications about being scratched vary by player experience, with some players learning from position coaches or coordinators, while others may not be informed at all.

Lastly, he discusses the strengths of the Ravens' offensive line, highlighting their effective run-blocking capabilities, which are crucial for the team's overall offensive strategy, especially in supporting quarterback Lamar Jackson.

The Houston Texans are preparing for their Christmas Day matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, but several players will not be participating. Following Tank Dell's significant knee injury, the Texans have claimed Diontae Johnson from the Ravens, although he will be inactive for the game.

In addition to Johnson, the Texans have listed offensive lineman Shaq Mason, defensive tackle Folorunso Fatukasi, defensive end Jerry Hughes, and linebacker Devin White as inactive. With these absences, the team will rely on John Metchie III, Robert Woods, and Xavier Hutchinson to step up.

The Ravens also have a number of players sidelined, including wide receiver Nelson Agholor and cornerback Jalyn Armour-Davis. The game is scheduled to kick off at 3:30 p.m. CT.

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers is set to play against the Houston Texans despite a shoulder injury that had him listed as questionable. After an impressive performance against the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he surpassed 1,000 receiving yards this season, Flowers is ready to contribute on Christmas Day.

Coach John Harbaugh expressed optimism about Flowers' availability after he missed practice earlier in the week. Meanwhile, several teammates, including running back Justice Hill and wide receiver Nelson Agholor, have been ruled out due to injuries.