Ravens rookie OLB David Ojabo will make NFL debut vs. Browns; OL Kevin Zeitler returns

Ravens rookie outside linebacker David Ojabo’s time has finally come.

The second-round draft pick, sidelined since March by his recovery from a torn Achilles tendon, was activated for Saturday’s game against the Cleveland Browns. He’ll make his NFL debut almost nine months since he went down at Michigan’s pro day, an injury that likely knocked the star pass rusher out of the first round of the NFL draft.

Ojabo had 11 sacks and a program-record five forced fumbles for the Wolverines last season. After missing all of the Ravens’ offseason program, he practiced for the first time Oct. 12 and was activated to the 53-man roster Nov. 1.

Right guard Kevin Zeitler is also returning to action. A knee injury sidelined Zeitler, who led all AFC guards in Pro Bowl fan voting, for the Ravens’ win Sunday over the Pittsburgh Steelers, his first missed game since 2019.

Quarterback Lamar Jackson (knee), who was ruled out Thursday after missing the week of practice, is one of six inactive players. Running back Kenyan Drake, tight end Charlie Kolar, guard Ben Cleveland, inside linebacker Josh Bynes and cornerback Damarion “Pepe” Williams are healthy scratches.

The Browns will be without their third-leading wide receiver, rookie David Bell (toe/thumb). Quarterback Kellen Mond, wide receiver Jaelon Darden, offensive tackle Chris Hubbard, defensive tackle Tommy Togiai, defensive end Isaiah Thomas and cornerback Thomas Graham Jr. are also inactive.

©2022 Baltimore Sun. Visit baltimoresun.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.