OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- In surprising news, Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith Sr. practiced for the first time since injuring his ankle on Oct. 9.
Why is this surprising? Smith was not on the field during Thursday's media viewing portion of practice. It was later revealed that he was a limited participant on the injury report, which means he came out to practice after individual drills began and reporters had stopped watching practice.
While it's unknown how much Smith did at practice or how he moved, this is an indication that Smith is attempting to return after missing two games. The Ravens (3-4) play host to the Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3) in what will be a battle for first place in the AFC North.
Smith, 37, the oldest receiver in the league, needs 103 yards receiving to pass Reggie Wayne for No. 8 on the NFL's all-time receiving yards list. He has the most career receiving yards among active players with 14,242.
Four Ravens didn't practice: linebackers Elvis Dumervil (foot) and Kamalei Correa (thigh), tight end Crockett Gillmore (thigh) and cornerback Shareece Wright (thigh). If Wright is sidelined, rookie Tavon Young would continue to fill in for him.
In addition to Smith, linebacker C.J. Mosley (hamstring) was limited in practice Thursday.