Fans of the Baltimore Ravens are filled with anticipation as they await the latest news on their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. Jackson missed the Ravens” convincing 41-24 victory against the Green Bay Packers in Week 17 due to a back injury he sustained the prior week during a loss to the New England Patriots. After missing practice for a week, NFL insider Ian Rapoport provided an optimistic update, indicating that Jackson is expected to participate in the first practice of the team”s preparations for their Week 18 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
According to Rapoport, “For the Baltimore Ravens, there remains uncertainty about whether Lamar Jackson, their star quarterback, will be available on the field. He is dealing with a significant back bruise. The team believed he could play last week, but he was unable to practice. This week, however, there is renewed hope that he will return. It appears he is feeling better. Coach John Harbaugh emphasized that when Jackson is healthy, he will start. There are no issues there. They are hopeful for his return this week, especially in a crucial game.”
This season has been challenging for Jackson, who has faced multiple injuries, including a hamstring issue earlier in the season and an illness just a couple of weeks ago. Despite these setbacks, Jackson has fought through various concerns to keep his team competitive in the playoff race. In 12 games this season, he has passed for 2,311 yards and achieved 18 touchdowns against six interceptions, while also adding 340 rushing yards and two touchdowns. His completion percentage of 63.7% this year is the lowest he has recorded since 2022 and ranks as the third lowest of his eight-year career.
If Jackson is unable to play, Ravens fans can take solace in the performance of Tyler Huntley, who has successfully stepped in as a starter. Huntley is undefeated at 2-0, having scored 71 points in his two starts, which included victories over both Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers, two teams that are playoff contenders. These wins were crucial for the Ravens as they fought to keep their postseason hopes alive.
As the Ravens gear up for their important clash against the Steelers, the atmosphere in Baltimore is optimistic. Fans are hopeful that their franchise quarterback will be able to contribute once again and help secure a victory that could determine their playoff fate.
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