Lamar Jackson injury update Sparks hope for Ravens ahead of critical Bills game originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Baltimore Ravens could be getting their biggest offensive weapon back at just the right time, as head coach Jesse Minter expressed optimism Monday about quarterback Lamar Jackson potentially returning for Sunday's matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
Jackson has missed Baltimore's last three games after suffering a high left ankle sprain against the Tennessee Titans on October 4. His absence has created significant challenges for a Ravens offense struggling to find consistency.
Minter believes the two-time NFL MVP is making progress, although his availability remains uncertain.
"I think he was able to get in a little bit of work obviously towards the end of last week," Minter told reporters Monday. "And so I think he'll be in a decent spot, but we'll know a lot more on Wednesday."
Jackson appeared close to returning against the Cincinnati Bengals after participating in limited practices throughout the week. However, Baltimore ruled him out Saturday, leaving Tyler Huntley to make another start.
The Ravens suffered a disappointing 35-13 defeat despite building a 13-0 halftime advantage.
Huntley threw for a career-high 298 yards, but Baltimore's offense struggled to finish drives while Cincinnati dominated the second half.
Without Jackson, the Ravens have averaged just 17.7 points per game over their last three contests.
Despite those struggles, Minter refuses to use Jackson's absence as an excuse.
"Lamar's 1 of 1, right? Two-time MVP, obviously a high-caliber player, but I just don't like the built-in excuse of why things are going a certain way," Minter said.
Baltimore enters Sunday's matchup with a 4-3 record, sitting last in the AFC North.
Jackson's potential return would provide a significant boost against a talented Buffalo team, particularly because his mobility creates problems for opposing defenses.
However, Baltimore must ensure its franchise quarterback is completely healthy before putting him back on the field.
With playoff positioning becoming increasingly important, the Ravens desperately need Jackson's leadership and explosive playmaking ability to reverse their recent struggles.
Wednesday's practice could determine whether Baltimore gets its superstar back for this crucial matchup.
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