Hayden Hurst Inactive Sunday
Hayden Hurst is inactive for the Bengals
Hayden Hurst will not play in the Bengals' Week 5 game against the Baltimore Ravens. Hurst is dealing with a calf injury, and the Bengals have ruled him out for the game.
Hurst has been a key part of the Bengals' offense this season, catching 17 passes for 215 yards and three touchdowns. His absence will be a big blow to the Bengals' passing game.
With Hurst out, the Bengals will likely rely more on tight end Mitchell Wilcox. Wilcox has caught eight passes for 101 yards and a touchdown this season.
Ravens defense could benefit from Hurst's absence
The Ravens' defense could benefit from Hurst's absence. Hurst is a big target, and he is a favorite target of Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. Without Hurst, the Ravens will have one less weapon to worry about.
The Ravens' defense has been playing well this season, but they have been vulnerable to tight ends. In Week 4, the Ravens allowed Browns tight end David Njoku to catch seven passes for 71 yards and a touchdown.
With Hurst out, the Ravens will be hoping to limit Wilcox's production. If they can do that, they will have a good chance of slowing down the Bengals' offense.