## NFL News Roundup: Ravens’ Zay Flowers Suffers Knee Sprain, Commanders Activate Austin Ekeler from IR
### Ravens’ Zay Flowers Sidelined with Knee Injury
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers has reportedly sprained his knee during practice, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The injury is believed to be a minor sprain, but it could still keep Flowers out of action for multiple games.
Flowers, a rookie fifth-round pick out of Boston College, has emerged as a promising playmaker for the Ravens. In four preseason games, he caught 12 passes for 161 yards and a touchdown. His quickness and route-running ability have drawn comparisons to former Ravens receiver Steve Smith Sr.
The Ravens are already dealing with injuries to their wide receiver corps, with Rashod Bateman and Devin Duvernay also nursing ailments. Flowers’ absence could put a strain on Baltimore’s passing attack, especially if Bateman or Duvernay are unable to play in Week 1.
### Commanders Activate Austin Ekeler from Injured Reserve
The Washington Commanders have activated running back Austin Ekeler from injured reserve, the team announced on Saturday. Ekeler, who suffered a hamstring injury in the preseason, is expected to make his season debut against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 1.
Ekeler is a key part of the Commanders’ offense, having rushed for 1,150 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2021. His return will boost a Washington running game that struggled in the preseason, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry.
With Ekeler back in the lineup, the Commanders now have a formidable backfield duo alongside Antonio Gibson. Both players are versatile and can contribute in multiple ways, giving Washington a significant advantage in the ground game.
## Other NFL News
### Raiders Release Offensive Tackle Kolton Miller
The Las Vegas Raiders have released offensive tackle Kolton Miller, the team announced on Friday. Miller, a first-round pick in 2018, had been a mainstay at left tackle for the Raiders but struggled with injuries and inconsistency in recent years.
The Raiders signed veteran tackle Jermaine Eluemunor to replace Miller, who will now likely become a free agent. Miller’s release is a sign of the Raiders’ ongoing rebuild under new head coach Josh McDaniels.
### Bears Sign Cornerback Kyler Gordon to Rookie Contract
The Chicago Bears have signed cornerback Kyler Gordon to his rookie contract, the team announced on Saturday. Gordon, the 39th overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, is expected to start opposite Jaylon Johnson in the Bears’ secondary.
Gordon is a talented playmaker with impressive athleticism and instincts. He had seven interceptions and 19 pass breakups during his final season at Washington. The Bears are hoping Gordon can provide a much-needed upgrade to their defense, which ranked near the bottom of the NFL in 2021.
### Browns’ Deshaun Watson Suspended for 11 Games
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson has been suspended for 11 games by the NFL for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. Watson was accused of sexual misconduct by 24 women while he was a member of the Houston Texans.
The suspension is a major blow to the Browns, who traded for Watson in March and gave him a fully guaranteed $230 million contract. Watson will be eligible to return to action in Week 13 against the Texans.
The NFL’s decision to suspend Watson has drawn mixed reactions. Some believe the suspension is too lenient, while others argue that it is fair and appropriate. The Browns are likely to appeal the suspension, but it is unclear if they will be successful.