DAVID GINSBURG
AP Sports Writer

OWINGS MILLS, Md. (AP) — Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco missed practice Wednesday with an unspecified illness but is expected to play Sunday against the Cleveland Browns.

Flacco hasn’t missed a start since launching his career during the first week of his rookie season in 2008. He has played in 98 straight games.

It was also the first time in recent memory he missed a practice.

Coach John Harbaugh did not give any insight into Flacco’s absence, described only as “illness” on the injury report.

A team spokesman said Flacco could be back as soon as Thursday.

Coming off a week in which the Ravens released suspended running back Ray Rice, the team has dealt with one distraction after another. But the players have maintained their focus.

Offensive tackle Eugene Monroe missed practice with a sore knee.

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