Humphrey Defends Jackson Against ‘Slander’

Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey criticized what he called unfair media “slander” of quarterback Lamar Jackson, who has missed Baltimore’s past two games with an ankle injury but returned to practice ahead of Sunday’s matchup with Cincinnati. Humphrey said Jackson will play if he is healthy enough, while declining to specify which coverage he objected to; if Jackson cannot play, Tyler Huntley is expected to start. Humphrey also faces a familiar challenge against Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase: Chase has caught 14 of 21 targets for 318 yards in 83 matchups with him, though Humphrey has intercepted two passes. Cincinnati’s offense also features Tee Higgins and other targets, giving quarterback Joe Burrow options beyond Chase.