Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson will return to play Sunday at the Buffalo Bills, telling ESPN that the pain in his injured left ankle is bearable. The two-time NFL Most Valuable Player has missed the past three games with a high ankle sprain after getting hurt 26 days ago during a win over the Tennessee Titans.
Lamar Jackson Returns After Missing Three Games With Ankle Sprain
Jackson was a full participant in all three practices for the first time since the injury occurred. He told ESPN after Friday’s session that he feels like he is no longer a statue and can move around a little better to give it a shot. During media viewing periods this week, Jackson was never spotted running at full speed, but he jogged briskly without favoring the ankle and had his left joint taped for every workout. When asked how the ankle felt compared to the previous week, Jackson simply stated that it is better.
Baltimore sits at 4-3 and in last place in the AFC North after losing two straight games. The team faces a Bills squad holding a 5-1 record that has beaten the Ravens in three consecutive meetings in Buffalo. Jackson acknowledged that the sense of urgency is extremely high as the team tries to get back to where it should be.
Baltimore Ravens Record With and Without Lamar Jackson
Statistics highlight the distinct offensive drop-off the Ravens experience when playing without their starting quarterback. Since Jackson became a full-time starter in 2019, Baltimore holds a 76-35 record while averaging 28 points per contest. Without him over the past seven seasons, the Ravens fall to 7-14 and average just 17.6 points per game.
Ravens coach Jesse Minter says QB Lamar Jackson (ankle) will play this week vs. Bills. pic.twitter.com/ACsVu0Hbx6
Tyler “Snoop” Huntley filled in during Jackson’s latest absence with mixed results. In 14 quarters with Jackson under center this season, the offense produced 14 touchdowns. Over 14 quarters without him, the Ravens managed only five touchdowns and were shut out in the second half over the past two weeks. Before the injury, Jackson ranked third in the NFL with an 82.6 QBR, throwing six touchdowns against one interception while leading all quarterbacks with 144 rushing yards.
Coach Mike Minter Expects Normal Production Despite Rust Factor
Ravens coach Mike Minter acknowledged that the team factored in a potential rust factor and structured practices to simulate game-like reps. Minter told ESPN that he expects Jackson to look like himself on the field, praising the quarterback’s diligence in handling the rehab process. Teammates noted that Jackson’s presence provides an emotional lift, though the organization stressed that the roster cannot rely solely on him to carry the load.
Jackson addressed critics on social media who questioned whether he should play through pain, responding that people should not second-guess him. Last week, Jackson nearly returned against the Cincinnati Bengals, but woke up last Saturday with swelling in the ankle that forced him to be ruled out a day before kickoff. Last October, Jackson missed three games with a hamstring injury before returning to complete 18 of 23 passes for 204 yards and four touchdowns in a 28-6 win over Miami.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lamar Jackson’s Injury
When did Lamar Jackson suffer his high ankle sprain?
Jackson sustained the high ankle sprain 26 days ago during a game against the Tennessee Titans, according to ESPN reporting.
How many games has Jackson missed this season?
Jackson missed the past three games while recovering from the injury, during which time Tyler “Snoop” Huntley filled in for the offense.
What opponent does Jackson face in his return game?
Jackson and the Ravens travel to face the Buffalo Bills, who enter the matchup with a 5-1 record and have won the last three games against Baltimore in Buffalo.