Ravens Drop to 25% Playoff Odds After Lamar Jackson Out for Season

Lamar Jackson suffered a thumb injury on the first snap of the Baltimore Ravens’ game against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, ending his season and dropping the team’s playoff odds to 25 percent. The injury occurred during an attempt to block outside linebacker Greg Rousseau, who struck Jackson’s hand as the quarterback threw the ball. Jackson immediately exited the field, holding up his damaged thumb, and was ruled out before the second play.

The loss widened the Ravens’ deficit in a 36-10 defeat in Buffalo. Right tackle Roger Rosengarten acknowledged his role in the incident, stating he needed to create more space for Jackson. He described the moment as eating at him, though teammates avoided placing blame. The injury follows a three-week absence for Jackson due to a high ankle sprain, a period during which he urged his teammates to show mental fortitude.

With Jackson sidelined, the Ravens turned to Tyler Huntley, who had been signed in a trade for center Cam Jurgens. Huntley managed only one snap before suffering a turf toe injury. The team then inserted Joe Fagnano, an undrafted rookie and emergency third-string quarterback. Fagnano completed 10 of 21 pass attempts but was sacked repeatedly, including a roughing the passer call that forced him to ice his ankle on the sidelines.

Running back Justice Hill was listed as the fourth quarterback on the depth chart. Hill, who sustained hits during the game, said he was ready for any moment. He expressed shock at seeing Jackson go off the field on the opening play. Tight end Mark Andrews noted that Jackson fought hard to return to full health over the previous weeks, a determination that had inspired the roster.

Receiver Zay Flowers, who had never finished a game without a reception before, struggled to maintain eye contact during his postgame interview. He described the situation as dire, noting that losing two quarterbacks simultaneously creates a difficult path forward. He said the team had faith in Fagnano but recognized the severity of the depth crisis.

Head coach Jesse Minter acknowledged that the offense struggled to find rhythm in the late stages of the game. He said the team reached for plays that exposed them to big plays. The Ravens must prepare for a four-day turnaround to host the Jacksonville Jaguars for Thursday Night Football. General Manager Eric DeCosta had previously traded for Jurgens to address the center position, a move that highlighted the team’s need for internal stability.

The team’s playoff simulator odds fell to 25 percent following the loss, according to The New York Times. Running back Derrick Henry emphasized that nine games remain on the schedule. He stated the team must work with whoever is available to secure wins. The locker room atmosphere was described as grim, with players focusing on moving forward despite the setback.