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NFL

Protecting Flacco's blind side could be a major issue Sunday

By FoxSports
Published | Updated
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Oct 1, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) is sacked by Pittsburgh Steelers safety Will Allen (20) and defensive end Stephon Tuitt (91) during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco could be facing protection issues Sunday against the Chargers. Jason Bridge Jason Bridge-USA TODAY Sports

Add another potential problem to the growing list of issues for Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco.

The left side of his offensive line is banged up as both tackle Eugene Monroe and guard Kelechi Osemele are still nursing the injuries they suffered in Monday night's loss to Arizona. Monroe (shoulder) has not returned to practice while Osemele (knee) was a limited participant in both sessions on Wednesday and Thursday. Both players were forced out in the fourth quarter on Monday.

Reserve guard John Urschel filled in capably for Osemele last year with three starts, but Monroe's replacement has struggled mightily. James Hurst was graded as the worst offensive tackle in the league by Pro Football Focus when Monroe missed three games with a concussion suffered during the opening drive of the season in Denver.

The Ravens' offense has been out of sorts this season with few weapons in the passing game. If Monroe or Osemele are out Sunday, the San Diego Chargers will look to capitalize on their absences.

The Ravens did get some healthy bodies back at practice Thursday. Reserve safety Terrence Brooks (thumb) was a full participant while starting safety Kendrick Lewis (knee) and tight end Maxx Williams (knee, ankle) were limited. No. 1 receiver Steve Smith was also listed as a limited participant after tweaking his knee Thursday.