The Ravens moved closer to getting another cornerback available Wednesday, designating T.J. Tampa for return from injured reserve and welcoming him back to practice.

The move gives Baltimore an opportunity to evaluate Tampa’s readiness as it prepares to host Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins on Sunday. Tampa still must be activated to the 53-man roster before he can play.

The third-year cornerback has appeared in one game this season, recording an assisted tackle in Baltimore’s season-opening victory at Indianapolis. He played all 17 games last season, made one start, and finished with 29 tackles, two passes defensed, and his first career interception. Through 25 regular-season appearances, Tampa has 34 tackles and one interception.

His return would give Baltimore another option behind a secondary led by Nate Wiggins and Marlon Humphrey, while potentially helping distribute special teams responsibilities.

The timing is significant with Cincinnati coming off its bye. Burrow has completed 71.4% of his passes for 1,361 yards and 11 touchdowns through five games, presenting a demanding assignment for Baltimore’s coverage. Tampa’s return to practice does not mean he will be available against the Bengals or will immediately assume a substantial defensive role. It does allow the Ravens to assess his conditioning, movement, and readiness for contact before deciding when to activate him.

For Baltimore, Wednesday marked progress toward restoring depth at a position that will face one of its toughest tests of the season.