Zay Flowers has given the Baltimore Ravens a reason to keep an eye on his status, but there is no major cause for concern heading into the regular season.
The wide receiver recently missed practice time, raising questions about whether something could threaten his availability for Week 1.
However, Baltimore’s approach suggests the team is being careful with one of its most important weapons.
What Happened to Ravens WR Zay Flowers?
Flowers missed two straight joint practices, including one against the Washington Commanders, because of a minor, undisclosed issue. The absence followed an earlier training camp injury involving his left quad, which occurred when he collided with safety Jaylinn Hawkins.
Flowers returned within days from that injury and did not face a lengthy recovery period.
His latest absence does not appear to signal another significant injury. Baltimore has limited his work as the preseason comes to a close, choosing not to take unnecessary chances with a player who is expected to have a major role once the regular season begins.
Flowers also remained out of the preseason finale against Washington, which was expected after the Ravens held 32 other key starters out of the game.
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The team’s current approach centers on having its core players healthy when the games count. Head coach Jesse Minter said the priority is “Week 1 health versus today health,” which helps explain why Flowers has not been pushed back onto the practice field. The coach also mentioned that there’s “nothing major,” when it comes to Flowers.
All signs currently point towards Flowers being available for Baltimore’s season opener against the Indianapolis Colts on Sept. 13. Barring an unexpected setback, the Ravens expect their star receiver to be ready when the regular season begins.
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That makes his recent absence from practice far less concerning when viewed alongside his role in Baltimore’s offense. Flowers is coming off a career-best season in which he recorded 1,211 receiving yards and ranked ninth in PFN NFL WR Impact for 2025. Since then, he has received a four-year, $140 million contract extension with $108 million guaranteed.
The Ravens also expect Flowers to remain a central part of the passing game under offensive coordinator Declan Doyle. His quick acceleration and ability to gain yards after the catch make him a natural fit for an offense that is expected to give him plenty of opportunities in the middle of the field.
Right now, the outlook remains positive. Flowers is expected to play in Week 1, and his recent time away from practice appears to be about protecting his health rather than dealing with an injury that could keep him sidelined.
