Running back Justin Forsett is back with the Baltimore Ravens two days after being a surprise cut.

Why did the Ravens release their starting running back in the first place? It appears as if Baltimore did some shrewd roster maneuvering.

Justin Forsett wasn't gone from the Ravens' roster for very long, and he missed no practice time. Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

The Ravens wanted to make defensive tackle Carl Davis and safety Matt Elam candidates to be the one player who can be designated for return at midseason. In order for them to be eligible for this, Davis and Elam had to be on the 53-man roster for at least one day.

The Ravens found a way to make room for one of them that didn't involve cutting a young cornerback or lineman who can get claimed by another team. Baltimore released Forsett, who has played long enough that he doesn't have to pass through waivers. The only way Baltimore would lose Forsett is if he chose to sign with another team.

If the Ravens were certain Forsett would re-sign, this essentially allowed the Ravens to carry 55 players the last couple of days (the team also waited to officially sign returner Devin Hester until Elam and Davis were placed on IR).

Forsett didn't miss any preparation for Sunday's season opener against the Buffalo Bills. The Ravens didn't practice the past two days that Forsett was technically off the roster.

On Tuesday, when the Ravens take the practice field for the first time this week, Forsett will line up behind quarterback Joe Flacco and it'll be like he was never gone.