Baltimore Ravens rookie offensive lineman Vega Ioane returned to practice on Thursday just four days after suffering an MCL sprain against the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite initial concerns that the first-round pick could miss multiple weeks, Ioane is pushing to make himself available for Sunday's Week 8 matchup with the Buffalo Bills.

The 22-year-old missed Wednesday's practice but returned to the field the following day as a limited participant while wearing a brace on his right leg. The injury was expected to keep Ioane out for some time, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, although it was considered short-term. His quick return to practice has given Baltimore hope that he might avoid missing a game.

If he cannot play this weekend, Ioane is likely to suit up for next Thursday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Head coach Jesse Minter also expressed confidence in his determination, saying:

“If there's anybody that can do something crazy and overcome things, he's got the right mentality.”

Ioane's availability would be pivotal for the Ravens, considering his role as the starting right guard. Emery Jones Jr. and Andrew Vorhees are among the potential replacements if he is unable to versus the Bills.

Baltimore also received positive updates involving safety Kyle Hamilton and linebacker Roquan Smith. Both returned to practice Thursday after sitting out on Wednesday with knee injuries. Hamilton indicated that his condition was improving, while Minter previously described the issues affecting both players as typical postgame discomfort.

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Meanwhile, quarterback Lamar Jackson participated fully for the second consecutive day. Jackson has missed the Ravens previous three games with a high ankle sprain, and his potential return would provide fresh impetus to an offense that has looked toothless during consecutive defeats against the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals.

Baltimore was outscored 35-0 in the second half of Sunday's 35-13 loss to the Bengals, surrendering touchdowns on five consecutive possessions. The challenge becomes even greater versus Buffalo, which enters the matchup averaging the most points and fourth-most yards per game in the NFL.

The Ravens, currently 4-3, are looking to avoid a third straight defeat. Their final injury designations Friday should provide greater clarity on Ioane's chances of playing when they visit the Bills on Sunday for a showdown at 1 p.m. ET.