The ninth week of the NFL season begins on Thursday night in Baltimore, where the 4-4 Ravens will host the 5-2 Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jaguars currently lead the AFC South, but they may be without their primary offensive weapon, running back Bhayshul Tuten, for the contest.
Tuten has been dealing with ankle and foot injuries, which kept him from participating in any practice sessions throughout the week. Consequently, the Jaguars officially designated him as questionable for the upcoming game. While NFL teams often scale back the intensity of their practices during short weeks leading up to Thursday Night Football, Tuten's complete absence from the field makes him a genuine game-time decision.
According to a report from ESPN, the running back is expected to be available for Thursday's match unless a setback occurs before the game begins. This potential absence comes just after Tuten delivered his most impactful performance of the season during Jacksonville's 42-7 victory over the Indianapolis Colts in Week 8.
In that win against the Colts, Tuten rushed for 104 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries, averaging 6.5 yards per attempt. He also contributed significantly through the air, co-leading the Jaguars in receiving with two catches for 55 yards and a score. This dual-threat performance marked a historic moment for the franchise.
Tuten became the first Jacksonville player since Maurice Jones-Drew in 2007 to record over 100 rushing yards, over 50 receiving yards, and multiple touchdowns in a single game. Additionally, the outing against Indianapolis represented the first time in his career that Tuten surpassed the 100-yard rushing mark in one game.
This season, Tuten has established a unique statistical distinction in the league. He is currently the only player in the NFL to have recorded at least three rushing touchdowns and at least three receiving touchdowns in the same campaign. His versatility has made him a central figure in the Jaguars' offensive strategy.
Should the coaching staff decide to play it safe and rest Tuten on Thursday, the starting role would fall to fourth-year veteran Chris Rodriguez Jr. Rodriguez has demonstrated his own value, accumulating 209 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns on 45 carries this season.
Rodriguez provided a crucial moment in the Week 8 victory over the Colts by breaking free for a 28-yard rushing touchdown up the middle of the field. That score extended the Jaguars' lead to 35-0, highlighting his effectiveness when given the opportunity.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Tuten's participation, the Jaguars remain favored to win the contest. The team is listed as a 10-point road favorite, with the game serving as the kickoff for Thursday night football.
