Chicago Bears v Detroit Lions Nic Antaya/GettyImages

Lions have one huge advantage over Ravens ahead of MNF

Originally posted on Side Lion Report
By Michael Colwander | Last updated Sep 22, 2025 9:00 AM ET

In a game between two Super Bowl contenders, the result may very well come down to who isn't playing rather than who is.

Both the Detroit Lions and the Baltimore Ravens have had their share of injury issues early on in the season. For the Lions, much of the discussion this past week has centered around pass rusher Marcus Davenport, who has now officially been ruled out with a chest injury.

Prior to the release of the injury report, head coach Dan Campbell spoke to the media and all but declared Davenport was out for the Week 3 Monday Night Football game. Despite the disappointing news, Campbell still struck an optimistic tone regarding an eventual Davenport return, saying, "We do not feel this is season-ending."

The rest of the injury report was promising as linebacker Jack Campbell (Ankle), tackle Taylor Decker (Shoulder/Rest), safety Kerby Joseph (Knee), and cornerback D.J. Reed (Knee) are all listed as questionable for Monday's game.

#DETvsBAL injury report presented by Henry Ford Health pic.twitter.com/gCCi2iju49
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 20, 2025

According to Friday's practice report, Davenport was the only Lion to not practice. Campbell, Joseph, and Reed were all limited, while Decker was a full participant. All four are likely to play on Monday, but things can always change before kickoff.

The Decker news should come as a relief, given that fans had to wait until hours before the Lions' Week 2 game against the Chicago Bears to learn if Decker would suit up. Tackle Giovanni Manu had practiced with the starters throughout the week leading up to that game.

The Lions' special teams unit is also getting a boost on Monday as running back Sione Vaki and linebacker Trevor Nowaske are poised to make their season debuts after both missing time. Vaki and Nowaske have each been listed as full participants in practice throughout the week.

Ravens will enter Monday Night Football banged up

While the Lions have mostly received good news, the same cannot be said for their opponents, as the Ravens have four players already listed as out.

The Ravens will be missing two key players on their defensive line in pass rusher Kyle Van Noy (Hamstring) and defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike (Neck). The Lions' new-look offensive line will still be tested on Monday, but it's tough to deny that the Lions are catching a big break not having to line up against these two Pro Bowlers.

Game status vs. Lions pic.twitter.com/lLOih7clRh
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) September 20, 2025

The Ravens will have to wait at least another week for the season debuts of All Pro fullback Patrick Ricard (Calf) and tight end Isaiah Likely (Foot). Likely did see limited practice throughout the week, but Ricard did not.

Though this is a big game for the Ravens, they do play the Kansas City Chiefs next week, which could have seeding implications at the end of the regular season. It does make sense for the Ravens to play it safe with their injuries and trust that quarterback Lamar Jackson, and his impressive record versus NFC opponents, can lead them to victory.