Ravens head coach Jesse Minter stated that the star quarterback sits in a “decent spot” with his health this week, though he declined to fully confirm Jackson‘s status for Week 8. The decision of him not playing in Week 7 surprised fans after the dual-threat QB participated in limited practice drills during the week.

Minter emphasized that performance readiness dictates Jackson’s availability. “If he’s able to play the way that he needs to play, then he will play,” Minter told reporters on Monday. The Ravens need him to beat the Bills.

Ravens without Lamar Jackson have struggled

The Ravens boast a significantly more productive attack when Jackson leads the huddle. In four games with Jackson starting, Baltimore gained 506 yards, 312 yards, 378 yards, and 384 yards. That equals 1,580 total offensive yards, generating an impressive average of 395.0 yards per contest.

Without Jackson on the field, Baltimore generated far less offensive firepower. In three games started by Tyler Huntley, the Ravens gained 391 yards against Atlanta, 235 yards against Cleveland, and 359 yards against Cincinnati. That drops their output to 985 total yards, averaging only 328.3 yards per game.

Ravens vs Bills is a key game for Baltimore in 2026

Both Baltimore and Buffalo enter this Week 8 battle as heavyweight contenders in the AFC. The Bills currently hold a 5-1 record, while the Ravens are behind at 4-3. A head-to-head victory provides massive leverage when determining potential postseason seeding tiebreakers down the road.

Securing the conference’s number one seed awards home-field advantage and the lone first-round bye in January. Jackson’s presence gives Baltimore its best chance to outduel Josh Allen’s high-flying offense and reassert control in the AFC race.

Key takeaways

• Lamar Jackson sits in a “decent spot” with his health ahead of Week 8.
• The Baltimore Ravens averaged 395.0 total offensive yards per game in Lamar Jackson’s starts.
• The Buffalo Bills hold a 5-1 record entering Week 8 against the Ravens.

Despite returning to limited practice reps on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, Jackson lacked the necessary mobility to take the field safely and effectively. Lamar sustained the left ankle injury during Baltimore’s Week 4 victory over the Tennessee Titans, exiting before the second half.

Losing Jackson for a third consecutive game presents a significant hurdle for Baltimore in a tight divisional race. Facing a fresh Cincinnati Bengals squad (3-2) coming off their bye week, the Ravens must navigate another key contest without their offensive focal point.

Who will be starting quarterback today for Ravens vs Bengals?

Tyler Huntley takes the field today as the starting quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens against the Cincinnati Bengals. Huntley steps under center for his third straight start in Jackson’s absence as the coaching staff relies on his familiarity with the offensive system.

In Week 5, Huntley engineered a thrilling 30-23 overtime victory over the Atlanta Falcons, accounting for three total touchdowns and delivering under pressure. Week 6 proved far tougher, as Huntley and the offense struggled in a disappointing 13-10 divisional loss to the Cleveland Browns. Huntley enters Sunday with a prime bounce-back opportunity against a Bengals defense that ranks tied for 23rd against the run.

To compensate for Jackson’s absence, Baltimore will lean heavily on running back Derrick Henry to control tempo and dictate physical play at the line of scrimmage. Huntley’s mobility allows the Ravens to maintain their core option-run principles, but quick decision-making on early downs will be vital against Cincinnati’s pass rush.

Key takeaways

• Lamar Jackson is not playing today against the Bengals as he continues to recover from a left ankle injury suffered in Week 4 against the Titans.
• Tyler Huntley makes his third consecutive start at quarterback for the Ravens.
• The 4-2 Ravens look to bounce back from a Week 6 loss to Cleveland as they host the 3-2 Cincinnati Bengals.

Jackson originally suffered the injury late in the first half of Baltimore’s Week 4 game against the Tennessee Titans. He was unable to return for the second half, although the Ravens managed to secure the victory. The injury then forced him to miss last week’s matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, and he has not practiced since getting hurt.

The timing of his absence is significant because Sunday’s game is a divisional contest with important implications for the AFC North standings. Baltimore will have to rely on its backup quarterback once again, hoping to maintain its momentum after a dramatic overtime win against Atlanta. Jackson’s return remains uncertain, with the Ravens taking a cautious approach to his recovery.

When is Lamar Jackson coming back?

Lamar Jackson might return in Week 7. For now, Tyler Huntley will start at quarterback for the Ravens against the Browns, taking over for Jackson for the second straight week. Huntley helped Baltimore overcome the Falcons in a 30-23 overtime victory, delivering a strong finish after the Ravens fell behind late in regulation.

Huntley completed 24 of 32 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns against Atlanta, while also scoring a rushing touchdown. His performance helped Baltimore complete a comeback and secure the win in overtime, giving the coaching staff confidence in turning to him again while Jackson remains sidelined.

Now Huntley faces another important test against Cleveland, with the Ravens looking to protect their position in the division. Baltimore will need him to manage the offense, avoid costly mistakes and take advantage of scoring opportunities. While Jackson’s absence is a major loss, Huntley’s performance against Atlanta gives the Ravens reason to believe they can remain competitive until their starting quarterback is healthy enough to return.

This will be the second-straight game without Jackson, but thankfully for the Ravens, they were able to win in overtime last Sunday Night Football against the Falcons. In fact, one could argue Huntley is the best backup in the NFL.

The Browns need a win and this is a divisional spot where form and level usually take a back seat to heated rivalry. Huntley will have to face a defense filled with talent and try to move the chains.

Huntley’s stats when starting for the Ravens

When he is starting for the Baltimore Ravens, Huntley is 6-6. This excludes his time in Miami or games where he entered but not started in. However, it’s his completion percentage in the last two years which is remarkable.

Since 2025, he is 3-0 and has completed 77.8% for 690 yards and four touchdowns for a passer rating of 105.6. He is yet to turn the ball over and he even has a fourth quarter comeback.

Lamar Jackson was close to playing vs Browns

Reports stated that Jackson’s injury update almost allowed him to play in Week 6 vs Browns. However, he won’t play, which means the recovery isn’t full yet. Still, the fact that this was very close to happen should point upwards on Week 7.

The Ravens play another very tough divisional matchup in Week 7 against the Cincinnati Bengals. Hence, that’s a key game and the Ravens much rather have Jackson for that game than against the Browns.

Key takeaways

• Tyler Huntley will start for the Ravens against the Browns as Lamar Jackson misses Week 6.
• Tyler Huntley holds a 6-6 record in regular-season starts for the Baltimore Ravens.
• Lamar Jackson was close to playing in Week 6 and could return in Week 7.

Schefter shared the update on Wednesday, indicating that Jackson could be back on the field this weekend. The ESPN insider reported: “Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has a realistic chance to return for Sunday’s game at Cleveland, per league source.” Although the report does not guarantee Lamar will play, it suggests the former MVP could avoid an extended absence.

The star QB suffered the ankle injury during Baltimore’s Week 4 win over the Tennessee Titans and was unable to play against Atlanta. The Ravens nevertheless found a way to secure a dramatic overtime victory against the Falcons, showing they could remain competitive without their franchise quarterback. However, with the AFC North race tightening, having Jackson available against Cleveland could prove crucial to Baltimore’s hopes of maintaining its position in the division.

Who will Be Ravens QB vs Browns?

For now, Baltimore has not officially confirmed who will start at quarterback against Cleveland. Jackson’s availability will depend on how his ankle responds during the week and whether he can return to practice. Head coach Jesse Minter previously said Jackson was improving, but the team was still evaluating his progress before making a decision.

If Jackson is cleared to play, the Ravens would regain their most dynamic offensive weapon for a matchup with significant divisional implications. His dual-threat ability as a passer and runner changes the way opposing defenses must prepare, giving Baltimore more options in an offense built around his unique skill set. His return would also provide a significant lift after the team had to rely on its backup in Atlanta.

If Jackson cannot play, Tyler Huntley is expected to start for the second consecutive game. Huntley helped Baltimore earn the overtime win against the Falcons and would once again be tasked with leading the offense if Jackson remains sidelined. The Ravens will continue monitoring their quarterback’s recovery throughout the week, with his practice participation likely to offer the clearest indication of whether he will return against the Browns.

Key takeaways

• Lamar Jackson has a realistic chance to play for Baltimore against Cleveland in Week 6.
• The star quarterback suffered an ankle injury during the Ravens’ Week 4 win over Tennessee.
• Tyler Huntley will start at quarterback if Jackson remains sidelined due to his sprained left ankle.

According to ESPN’s Jamison Hensley, Minter revealed that Jackson is “definitely doing better” with his injury. However, he is still unsure whether Jackson will practice on Wednesday.

The head coach also added: “He’s doing everything he can to get back out there.” Will the Ravens get their star back on the field next weekend?

What injury is Lamar Jackson dealing with?

Jackson suffered a left ankle sprain during the second quarter of Baltimore‘s Week 4 victory over the Tennessee Titans when his ankle twisted awkwardly under a hit. Though he initially tried to tough it out, he was eventually ruled out for the second half and spent the following week in a protective walking boot.

After sitting out practice all week, Jackson was ruled out for the Ravens’ Week 5 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, handing starting duties over to Tyler Huntley. The good news for Baltimore is that the injury isn’t expected to keep him down for long, with reports indicating “some hope” that he can return to action this weekend.

Everything changes with Lamar on the field

When healthy through the first four weeks of the 2026 NFL season, Lamar Jackson was operating at an absolute MVP level and putting on a masterclass in efficiency. Shredding defenses through the air with a blazing 70.8% completion rate and a stellar 119.6 passer rating, Jackson was averaging over 10 yards per pass attempt while giving up just a single interception.

Beyond his pinpoint accuracy downfield, he continued to be a nightmare on the ground, tacking on 144 rushing yards to keep Baltimore’s offense operating at peak output.

Key takeaways

• Jesse Minter stated Lamar Jackson is “definitely doing better” following his injury.
• Lamar Jackson suffered a left ankle sprain in Week 4 against the Titans.
• Lamar Jackson achieved a 70.8% completion rate through the season’s first four weeks.

Jackson was ruled out by head coach Jesse Minter on Friday ahead of a “Sunday Night Football” matchup with the surging Falcons, leaving Tyler Huntley as the team’s starter. After Jackson’s 2025 campaign was derailed by injury, the Ravens are hoping to avoid the same scenario.

Jackson is dealing with an “unconventional” ankle sprain, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported. While the Ravens star is not dealing with a high-ankle sprain, according to reports, the injury is significant enough to keep him sidelined for at least one game.

Lamar’s return

Jackson missed the second half of Baltimore’s Week 4 game against the Titans after a Tennessee defender landed on his ankle. He limped back to the sideline before standing and watching the second half of a game the Ravens led comfortably most of the way.

Fortunately, the Ravens did not need him, hanging on to win 24-18 to improve to 3-1. Jackson was 15-for-20 for 222 passing yards and two touchdowns, adding 20 yards on the ground before leaving the game.

However, the Ravens and Jackson received a major update regarding his injury, indicating his return could come sooner than expected. Ravens head coach Jesse Minter said that Jackson’s status for Week 6 against the surprising Cleveland Browns is unknown.

Nevertheless, per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Lamar Jackson has a “real chance” to return in Week 6 against the Browns. Rapoport also stated Jackson has been “working like crazy” to get back on the field next week.

Key takeaways

• Tyler Huntley was named Baltimore’s starter after Lamar Jackson was ruled out.
• An unconventional ankle sprain keeps Lamar Jackson sidelined for at least one game.
• Week 6 against Cleveland gives Lamar Jackson a real chance to return.

Per Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, Lamar Jackson has a “real chance” to return in Week 6 against the Browns. Rapoport also stated Jackson has been “working like crazy” to get back on the field next week.

Initially, the Ravens thought this was going to be a multi-week absence. However, it seems like the 2x MVP might be back sooner rather than later. Still, Jackson is unlikely to suit up in Week 5 vs Falcons.

Lamar Jackson’s stats in 2026 NFL season so far

Jackson has guided the Ravens to a 3-1 record, completing 68/96 passes for a 70.8 completion percentage. Jackson has 967 yards, six touchdowns, just one pick.

The dual-threat QB has also logged 144 yards and one rushing touchdown. Without him, the Ravens suffer huge downgrades on offense. Tyler Huntley is as close as stylistically possible to Lamar Jackson, but the quality clearly dips.

Tyler Huntley record as Ravens QB

Tyler Huntley has a regular-season record of 5–6 as a starting quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens. However, he also managed to get a Pro Bowl selection during that span.

Key takeaways

• Lamar Jackson has a “real chance“ to return in Week 6 from an ankle injury.
• Jackson has completed 68 of 96 passes for 967 yards and six touchdowns.
• Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley holds a 5-6 regular-season starting record with Baltimore.

Jackson suffered the injury during the first half of Baltimore’s Week 4 win over the Tennessee Titans. He was sacked on the final play before halftime when Titans defensive end Jermaine Johnson II landed on his left ankle. Jackson did not return after the break, leaving the Ravens to finish the game without their starting quarterback.

Before exiting, Jackson had completed 15 of 20 passes for 222 yards and two touchdowns, helping Baltimore build a 24-7 halftime lead. Tyler Huntley replaced him in the second half and completed eight of nine passes for 63 yards as the Ravens held on for a 24-18 victory. Although the initial hope was that Jackson could recover in time for Atlanta, his lack of practice ultimately led to the decision to keep him sidelined.

Who will start at QB for Ravens vs Falcons?

Tyler Huntley will start at quarterback against the Falcons, giving Baltimore a familiar option while Jackson recovers. Head coach Jesse Minter expressed confidence in the backup, who has previous starting experience with the Ravens and stepped in effectively against Tennessee. Huntley will now be responsible for leading the offense against an Atlanta team that has shown improvement with Michael Penix Jr. back under center.

The Falcons present a difficult challenge, particularly because of their ability to generate offense through both the passing game and the ground attack. Penix’s return gives Atlanta stability at quarterback, while running back Bijan Robinson remains a major threat who can change a game with his explosiveness. Without Jackson’s dual-threat ability, Baltimore may need to rely more heavily on Derrick Henry and its defense to keep the matchup under control.

Jackson is not the only notable absence for Baltimore. Outside linebacker Trey Hendrickson has also been ruled out because of a finger injury, marking another game he will miss while recovering from the issue. Meanwhile, center Cam Jurgens remains in concussion protocol and is not expected to make his Ravens debut until next week. With three important players unavailable, Baltimore will need contributions from its backups as it attempts to secure a win in Atlanta and avoid taking unnecessary risks with Jackson’s recovery.

Key takeaways

• Lamar Jackson was ruled out for the Ravens’ Week 5 game with an ankle injury.
• The QB completed 15 of 20 passes for 222 yards before leaving the game vs Titans in the first half.
• Tyler Huntley will start at quarterback for Baltimore against the Atlanta Falcons.

Jackson’s injury came at a particularly important moment for the Ravens because they entered the second half with a 24-7 advantage. With a 17-point cushion, Baltimore lost its star quarterback for the rest of the game.

Now, the Ravens are scheduled to face the Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns, Cincinnati Bengals, Buffalo Bills and Jacksonville Jaguars over their next five games. That stretch could become a major test for Baltimore, making Jackson’s health even more important.

What’s Lamar Jackson’s injury update?

Lamar Jackson was officially listed as questionable to return after suffering the ankle injury. He did not return to start the second half, with Huntley taking over at quarterback as Baltimore continued to protect its lead.

After the game, head coach Jesse Minter offer an update about Lamar’s situation. “I don’t know enough about it right now, but we’ll have to see where that’s at. Hopefully, it’s in a good spot.” Minter also admitted that there were talks about Jackson coming back to the game, but, ultimately, they decided to keep Huntley.

It’s important to note that Lamar was seen walking along the sideline and supporting his teammates after leaving the game. That does not provide a definitive indication of the severity of an ankle injury, but seeing the quarterback able to move around the sideline was certainly a positive development for Baltimore.

Key takeaways

• Lamar Jackson suffered an ankle injury against the Titans.
• Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley took over while Baltimore held a 24-7 advantage. The Ravens won 24-18.
• Jackson was listed as questionable to return and was seen walking along the sideline. A new update will be announced on Monday.

Before the end of the first half, Jackson attempted to escape from a sack by Jermaine Johnson II but got his left ankle twisted underneath the defensive end’s body. As Baltimore returned for the second half, Jackson was seen on the sidelines while Huntley warmed up.

Although the Ravens didn’t report any new development with Jackson, he didn’t return to the field against the Titans in Week 4. Fortunately for Baltimore, a favorable matchup against the 0-3 Titans helped them survive the evening even with Jackson unable to finish the game.

Ravens QB depth chart

With Jackson missing the rest of the game and Huntley filling in, the Ravens only had one option left on the quarterback depth chart. Skylar Thompson is on Injured Reserve (IR), meaning Joe Fagnano is the team’s third, emergency quarterback for Week 4 against the Titans.

Fagnano can only enter the game if something happens to Huntley and Jackson is downgraded to out for the remainder of the game at M&T Bank Stadium.

Lamar Jackson’s stats before injury

Jackson had gotten off to a hot start against the Titans in Week 4 of the 2026 NFL season. Before being listed as questionable at the half, Jackson had thrown 15 passes for 222 yards and two touchdowns, while rushing twice for a total of 20 yards, as well.

So far this season, and until he left the game against the Titans, Jackson has thrown 68 passes for 967 yards, six touchdowns, and an interception. It remains to be seen the extent of Jackson’s injury, though there is a scenario in which Baltimore played it safe and kept Huntley in the game just to be careful.

Key takeaways

• Ankle injury forced Ravens quarterback to exit the game against the Titans.
• Tyler Huntley came in under center to replace the injured starter.
• Lamar Jackson threw for 222 yards and two touchdowns before exiting the game.