Lamar Jackson returns to Ravens lineup for Sunday's Bills matchup
The two-time MVP practiced in full Wednesday after missing three games with a high left ankle sprain.
By Kendra Wilson ·
Baltimore Ravens fans will see their starting quarterback on the field again this Sunday. Lamar Jackson is cleared to play against the Buffalo Bills, ending a three-game absence due to a high left ankle sprain.
The injury occurred during the second quarter of a win over the Tennessee Titans on Oct. 4. Since that date, the Ravens have gone 1-2. The team has failed to score a single point in the second half of its two most recent games. The offense averaged 29 points per game during Jackson’s four starts this season. That average dropped to 17.7 points when backup quarterback Tyler Huntley took the field.
Jackson participated in all three team practices this week for the first time since getting hurt. He practiced in full on Wednesday. Team staff taped his left ankle throughout the sessions. He did not run at full speed in any of the drills. On Friday, he described the pain as bearable. When asked to quantify his recovery, he declined to give a percentage. He said the ankle feels better than it did the previous week.
“I feel like I’m no longer a statue,” Jackson said after Friday’s practice. “I’m able to move around a little better. I can give it a shot.”
Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley called the return a big boost for the unit. Stanley noted that while Jackson is the best player in the league, the team does not want to rely solely on him to carry the load. Head coach Jesse Minter acknowledged the potential rust factor from the layoff. He expressed confidence that Jackson has managed the injury well and will be in a position to play his best football.
The Ravens enter the game with a 4-3 record and sit in last place in the AFC North. They travel to face a 5-1 Buffalo Bills team. The Bills have defeated Baltimore in the last three meetings at their home stadium. Josh Allen will start at quarterback for Buffalo.
The Ravens have not played a full game since the loss to the Titans on Oct. 4. The next contest marks the first time Jackson has faced a live defense since that date.
Source: KELO
