Lamar Jackson Returns to Full Practice Ahead of Ravens-Bills Clash
The quarterback participated in all drills Wednesday, marking a key step toward Sunday's game despite ongoing questions about his ankle.
By Benjamin Mahmoud ·
Lamar Jackson took the field for a full practice Wednesday, ending a two-week absence that has defined the Baltimore Ravens' recent struggles. The quarterback suffered a high-ankle sprain on Oct. 4 during a win over the Tennessee Titans and has missed three games since.
Jackson jogged and completed intensive warmups with athletic trainers during the media viewing period. This marks his first full participation since the injury, following a limited session last week that ended with him being ruled out for the loss against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Coach Jesse Minter remained cautious when asked about the quarterback's workload. He deferred to the official injury report and avoided giving a definitive timeline for a return. Minter noted that increased mobility and responsiveness raise optimism but emphasized the need to monitor progress throughout the week.
The Ravens are 4-3 and enter the weekend with a clear need for their starter. Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley is 1-2 in three starts since replacing Jackson. Huntley led an overtime win against the Atlanta Falcons but struggled in losses to the Cleveland Browns and the Bengals.
Jackson, who was among the league's top performers in the first month of the season, said he would decide on his return based on pain levels and mobility. He stated that if he could not move naturally, he could not help the team.
The Ravens face the Buffalo Bills, a 5-1 team and AFC contender, on Sunday. The squad has dealt with inconsistent offensive line play and a defense that has ranked among the league's worst after halftime this season. Minter said the organization expects every staff member and player to contribute to improvement.
Several other players were sidelined Wednesday due to knee injuries. Right guard Vega Ioane, inside linebacker Roquan Smith, and safeties Kyle Hamilton and Jaylinn Hawkins all missed practice. Ioane is not expected to play Sunday, though Minter expressed hope that the guard will return quickly.
Source: The Baltimore Banner
