Ravens getting healthier as Evans returns to practice

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Left guard Ben Grubbs made his long-awaited return to the field in Pittsburgh last Sunday night.
Might wide receiver Lee Evans be next?
The veteran wideout returned to the practice field on Wednesday for the first time since Oct. 12 when he tried to practice after the Ravens’ bye week. Evans has been dealing with a left ankle injury that’s sidelined him since the Week 2 loss in Tennessee, but he’s appeared more upbeat over the last week in discussing his status. Coach John Harbaugh said last week the Ravens have not considered placing the 30-year-old receiver on injured reserve.

Though it’s far too early to determine Evans’ status for Sunday against the Seattle Seahawks, his return would provide another viable option to an improving passing game that’s depended on rookies Torrey Smith and LaQuan Williams as wide receivers behind veteran Anquan Boldin.
Linebacker Dannell Ellerbe also returned to the practice field for the first time since injuring his thigh in the Ravens’ win over the Houston Texans on Oct. 16.
Left guard Ben Grubbs was practicing after telling reporters he made it through Sunday’s game in Pittsburgh without damaging his right toe any further. However, the turf toe injury will be a factor for the remainder of the season, according to the fifth-year offensive lineman.
“It’s not any worse, but it still hurts definitely,” Grubbs said prior to Monday’s practice. “I think I’m able to maintain and I’ll be able to continue to play this season.”
The only player missing from Wednesday’s practice was center Matt Birk, who is often given the day off on Wednesday as a way of resting his surgically-repaired knee.
Linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo (concussion) was practicing on Wednesday but said he would not take part in any contact until being cleared later this week.