The writing was on the wall when the Ravens activated tight end Dennis Pitta, but now it's official.
Pitta is active and will play his first game of the season against the Minnesota Vikings. It will be Pitta's first game action since Super Bowl XLVII in February.
It's unknown how much action Pitta will get, especially in snowy conditions, but it could be a lot considering the Ravens deactivated another top receiving weapon.
To make room for Pitta on the active gameday roster, the Ravens scratched tight end Dallas Clark. Clark is second on the team in receiving yards (343) and third in receptions (31). He has three touchdowns.
Clark plays more of a receiving tight end role similar to Pitta. Ed Dickson will remain a key part of the team's blocking game.
While getting Pitta back could be big for the offense, the defense will be without top pass rusher Elvis Dumervil.
Dumervil sat out practice this week due to an ankle injury suffered on Thanksgiving against the Steelers. He has 9.5 sacks this season.
The Ravens' other inactives are safety Brynden Trawick (ankle), safety Omar Brown, center Ryan Jensen, wide receiver Deonte Thompson and defensive tackle Brandon Williams.
Vikings Pro Bowl running back Adrian Peterson (groin) is active, as expected. He will likely see a lot of action in the snowy weather at M&T Bank Stadium.
Minnesota's inactives are quarterback Christian Ponder, cornerback Josh Robinson, guard Jeff Baca, tackle Mike Remmers, tight end Kyle Rudolph, wide receiver Rodney Smith and defensive tackle Chase Baker. Matt Cassel will get the start under center.
