QB Jackson Still Out as Ravens Return From Bye
OWINGS MILLS, Md. – The Baltimore Ravens’ hopes for a midseason resurgence have been dealt a blow as quarterback Lamar Jackson remains sidelined with a right hamstring injury upon the team’s return from their bye week. Jackson’s absence casts a shadow over the Ravens’ preparations for their upcoming game against the Chicago Bears, raising concerns about the team’s offensive capabilities.
The uncertainty surrounding Jackson’s availability stems from his failure to participate in Monday’s practice session. This setback throws into question whether the two-time NFL Most Valuable Player will be fit enough to take the field against the Bears on Sunday.
Ravens coach John Harbaugh had previously expressed optimism that Jackson would be able to return after missing the past two games due to the injury. However, Jackson’s absence from Monday’s practice has tempered those expectations.
Harbaugh remained tight-lipped about Jackson’s status, declining to provide specific details when asked whether he anticipated his Pro Bowl quarterback to practice this week.
"I think all the guys are working really hard to get back, I can tell you that," Harbaugh said after Monday’s practice. "We’ll see who’s back and who practices on Wednesday. I don’t want to comment on any individual guys."
When pressed on whether he anticipated Jackson playing on Sunday, Harbaugh reiterated his stance, stating, "Same answer."
The Ravens’ struggles this season have been well-documented, with the team posting a dismal 1-5 record, tying the worst start in the franchise’s 30-year history. The team had been hoping that Jackson’s return would provide the spark needed to ignite a turnaround.
However, in the two games that Jackson has missed this season, the Ravens’ offense has sputtered, managing to score a mere 13 points with backup quarterback Cooper Rush at the helm.
Jackson sustained the hamstring injury during the Ravens’ 37-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. While cornerback Chidobe Awuzie and middle linebacker Roquan Smith, who also sustained injuries in that game, have since returned to action, Jackson remains on the sidelines.
Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers, a close friend of Jackson’s, revealed that he speaks with the quarterback every day but remains uncertain about when he will be able to return.
"I don’t really know the situation, if I’m being honest," Flowers said. "If he is [playing], we’ll be ready to go."
The Ravens’ fortunes are inextricably linked to Jackson’s presence on the field. Since 2018, the team boasts a remarkable 74-32 record (.698), including playoff games, with Jackson as their starting quarterback, averaging 28.1 points per game. In contrast, without Jackson, the Ravens’ record plummets to 4-12 (.250), with the team averaging a paltry 15.4 points per game.
The Ravens’ slow start to the season has left them with little margin for error as they strive to make the playoffs. According to ESPN Analytics, the team’s chances of reaching the postseason currently stand at 28.6%.
"Everybody in our room is definitely still on the mindset that we still can do it and I believe we can," cornerback Marlon Humphrey said, expressing the team’s determination to overcome their current challenges.
The Ravens’ coaching staff and players are acutely aware of the importance of Jackson’s return to the lineup. His absence not only diminishes the team’s offensive firepower but also impacts the overall morale and confidence of the squad.
The Ravens’ offensive scheme is tailored to Jackson’s unique skillset, which includes his exceptional running ability and his ability to make plays both inside and outside the pocket. Without Jackson, the team’s offense becomes more predictable and less dynamic.
The Ravens’ coaching staff will be closely monitoring Jackson’s progress throughout the week, hoping that he will be able to participate in practice and demonstrate that he is fit enough to play against the Bears.
If Jackson is unable to play, the Ravens will once again turn to Cooper Rush to lead the offense. Rush, a veteran backup, has shown flashes of potential but lacks the explosiveness and playmaking ability of Jackson.
The Ravens’ game against the Bears is a crucial one for the team’s playoff aspirations. A win would provide a much-needed boost to their confidence and keep them in the hunt for a postseason berth. However, a loss would further diminish their chances and increase the pressure on the team to turn things around.
The Ravens’ faithful are eagerly awaiting news on Jackson’s condition, hoping that he will be able to return to the field and lead the team back to contention.
