Report: Ray Lewis unlikely to return to Ravens before playoffs

Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis tore his triceps in Week 6 and was expected to miss the rest of the season. (Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

When Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis returned to practice three weeks ago, speculation began about a possible regular season return from his torn triceps. But Lewis will likely sit out Baltimore's final two regular season games, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

A return for the playoffs is a "possibility," according to the report.

The team has already announced that he will not be added to the active roster for Sunday's game against the New York Giants. Lewis has missed the Ravens' last eight games since suffering the injury during a Week 6 game against the Cowboys. He was expected to miss the rest of the season.

On Friday, Ravens coach John Harbaugh opted to reveal little on Lewis' status, saying only that he's "coming along." The team is 4-4 since Lewis exited the lineup following a Week 6 win over the Dallas Cowboys. The Ravens have lost three in a row.

Some doubt now creeps into the picture regarding Lewis, 38, who's been practicing with the team for three weeks. The Ravens must have legitimate fears Lewis will re-aggravate the injury if he comes back before he's completely ready.