Steve Smith Injury: Updates on Ravens Star's Back, Ribs and Return

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. suffered a back injury against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 4 and did not play in Week 5. The wideout also reportedly suffered four broken ribs, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. 

Continue for updates.

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Smith Active for Week 6 

Sunday, Oct. 18

The Ravens announced that Smith was not on the list of inactive players against the San Francisco 49ers. 

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Smith Comments on Potential Return for Week 6

Friday, Oct. 16

“To be honest, my expectation of playing is very low," Smith told reporters when discussing his availability for Sunday.

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Latest on Smith's Practice Status Ahead of Week 6

Friday, Oct. 16

The Ravens announced Smith was limited in practice all week.

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Harbaugh Comments on Smith's Toughness

Monday, Oct. 12

Head coach John Harbaugh said he's "hopeful" Smith will play against San Francisco, via Jamison Hensley of ESPN, adding, "You never rule out Steve Smith."

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Smith Needed as Ravens Lack WR Depth

After spending all 13 of his previous NFL seasons with the Carolina Panthers, Smith went to Baltimore in 2014 and registered a 1,000-yard season. The 2015 campaign is Smith's last, so he'll do all he can to return soon. Entering Week 4, he was the NFL's third-leading receiver (349 yards) behind Julio Jones and Antonio Brown.

The Ravens have had to try to manufacture a way to produce in the passing game without a highly dependable target. Super Bowl MVP quarterback Joe Flacco lost wide receiver Torrey Smith to free agency this offseason and has only the likes of Kamar Aiken and Marlon Brown to lean on as long as Smith is out. 

First-year tight end Maxx Williams is looking to step into a more prominent role with the Ravens' increased need for pass-catchers. Although Smith's absence for a short time could be a welcome catalyst for others to elevate their play, Baltimore can't afford to lose him for long.   

After going 1-4, the Ravens take on the San Francisco 49ers in a winnable game against a team that is having struggles of its own, to say the least.