Ravens face crucial stretch as Lamar Jackson's availability remains uncertain
Baltimore's chances against the Bills and Jaguars hinge on quarterback Lamar Jackson's recovery from a high-ankle sprain, with his status still undecided for the upcoming games.
Baltimore is 3-1 when quarterback Lamar Jackson plays and 1-2 without him, and the team hopes to have him back for its upcoming games against the Buffalo Bills and Jacksonville Jaguars. Jackson confirmed on Friday that he is dealing with a high-ankle sprain suffered in Week 4 against the Tennessee Titans and said he is "heading in the right direction," but the Ravens moved him from questionable to out the following day.
If Jackson remains unavailable, the Ravens risk slipping from a 4-3 record to 4-5 after the next two contests. The team’s next matchup is a Sunday trip to Buffalo, followed by a short-week visit to Jacksonville. Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley would likely see limited first-team reps if Jackson is listed as a full participant later in the week.
Coaches indicated that Jackson's decision to play will depend on his pain tolerance and mobility, noting that a high-ankle sprain typically requires a longer recovery period. The outcome of the Bills and Jaguars games will be pivotal for Baltimore's playoff aspirations.