Just when it appears the Ravens could have a key linebacker returning, they lose one for the season.

Jameel McClain is done for the season with a spinal cord injury and going on the injured reserve list. 

McClain, who didn't play in Sunday's 34-17 loss to the Denver Broncos, injured his neck and back when making a tackle on Alfred Morris of the Washington Redskins a week ago.

He went to Los Angeles last week to get evaluated and coach John Harbaugh said Monday that it's a spinal cord contusion.  The Ravens could move up a player from the practice squad or possibly sign another to fill McClain's roster spot. 

The Ravens played Denver without Ray Lewis, who was eligible to return from the injured list after getting triceps surgery in October. 

Lewis, however, wasn't activated but could be in the mix for Sunday's game against the New York Giants.  The Ravens also are without linebacker Dannell Ellerbe (ankle) as he missed his third game and have Terrell Suggs playing through a biceps injury. 

Receiver Torrey Smith and running back Bernard Pierce had concussions Sunday and didn't return in the second half.

Wrote Smith on his Twitter page: "Thanks everyone for the positive messages and prayers...we will see what the doctor says about this week...I have no clue."

Tight end Ed Dickson (knee) missed his third game in a row.