Lamar Jackson’s availability for the Baltimore Ravens is in doubt after the quarterback suffered a sprained ankle in Sunday’s 24-18 victory over the Tennessee Titans, and the injury could sideline him beyond this week.
What changed for the franchise
Jackson left the Titans game following the second quarter and was unable to return. He had been highly efficient before the ankle issue, recording a 144.2 passer rating.
It marked the 18th game of Jackson’s NFL career in which he has posted a passer rating of at least 140. Since entering the league in 2018, he has produced 10 more such performances than any other quarterback.
The ankle sprain leaves him with only a remote possibility of playing against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. His recovery could extend into multiple games, making the Ravens’ handling of their franchise quarterback a major early test for head coach Jesse Minter and the new staff.
Baltimore must decide whether to wait until Jackson is fully, or nearly fully, recovered before returning him to the lineup. Jackson dealt with injuries that carried into last season and affected the club’s overall campaign, adding weight to the decision on whether he should attempt a rapid comeback.
Tyler Huntley would be in line for his first start of the season if Jackson is ruled out. Huntley has started 16 regular-season games during his seven NFL seasons, including 11 starts with Baltimore. He earned two wins as a Ravens starter last year.
After replacing Jackson in the second half against Tennessee, Huntley completed eight of nine passes for 63 yards. The Ravens, however, did not score and managed five first downs across five offensive possessions with Huntley running the offense.
Baltimore’s immediate schedule raises the stakes. The Ravens are set to meet a surging Falcons team in a prime-time Week 5 matchup, followed by divisional games against the Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals.
