What happened: Defensive coordinator Jesse Minter addressed the status of safety Jaylinn Hawkins and cornerback Nate Wiggins following their recent absences. Hawkins has been sidelined by a knee injury, while Wiggins missed playing time due to an illness. Both defensive contributors were held out of action during Thursday's matchup against Jacksonville.
Why it matters: Getting the secondary healthy is critical as Baltimore works to halt a four-game slide. At 4-5 through nine games, Baltimore holds the No. 10 seed in the AFC and faces narrowing margins in the playoff race. Shoring up defensive depth remains an immediate priority after conceding 33 points to the Jaguars.
By the numbers: Hawkins has recorded 30 tackles in 2026 through six games. Wiggins has made 24 tackles in 2026 through eight games. Baltimore enters Week 10 at 4-5 in 2026 through nine games with four consecutive losses.
What to watch: Practice participation reports later in the week will clarify whether either defender can clear injury protocols and return to the active lineup.