Lamar Jackson’s return to the practice field offered a major lift for the struggling Baltimore Ravens. The star quarterback was a limited participant on Wednesday, signaling progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury that’s sidelined him since Week 4. His presence brings renewed hope as the 1-5 Ravens prepare for Sunday’s critical matchup against the Chicago Bears.
Lamar Jackson Injury Update and Practice Status
When Jackson jogged onto the field about 20 minutes after practice began, teammates erupted in excitement. Running back Derrick Henry greeted him with a dap, while Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken pulled him in for a full embrace.
“I think the energy level changes – I mean, heck yes,” Head Coach John Harbaugh, according to the team’s official website. “Lamar – he’s our quarterback; he’s a great guy.”
The Ravens have been desperate for a spark on offense after dropping five straight games. Although Jackson’s return was encouraging, Harbaugh wouldn’t confirm if he’ll play Sunday.
“It’s hard to put a number on it,” Harbaugh said. “I think it’s just part of the process right now. I really don’t have any shareable, injury intelligence for you guys at this point.”
Harbaugh added that the team’s focus remains fixed on the upcoming game. “We’re focused and locked in on Sunday’s game, and that’s it right now.”
Backup Quarterback Options if Lamar Jackson Sits
If Jackson isn’t ready to go, the Ravens will again choose between Cooper Rush or Tyler Huntley. Harbaugh declined to say which one would start against Chicago.
In his two starts, Rush has struggled, completing just 25 of 39 passes for 251 yards and throwing four interceptions without a touchdown. His last outing — a 17-3 loss to the Los Angeles Rams — saw him throw for only 72 yards.
Huntley stepped in late against the Rams, completing 10 of 15 passes for 68 yards while adding 23 rushing yards. Known for his mobility, Huntley offers a style more similar to Jackson’s. He also has a history of success against Chicago — in 2021, he led the Ravens to a 16-13 win when Jackson fell ill before the game.
“I thought Tyler Huntley played well,” Harbaugh said. “He practiced well. He looks good.”
Inside the Locker Room: Frustration with Todd Monken’s Offense
While Jackson’s health remains the main focus, frustration is brewing inside the Ravens locker room. According to The Baltimore Sun reporters Brian Wacker, Josh Tolentino, and Sam Jane, one veteran offensive player expressed doubt about Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken’s system.
“It just feels different. I just don’t feel like guys are being put in positions to succeed with this offense,” the player said.
When pressed, he added, “It’s freakin’ Lamar Jackson — how can you not find ways to have success with him? But I’m pretty sure if you put [Kansas City Chiefs quarterback] Patrick Mahomes out there for us right now, the same things would be happening.”
Baltimore’s offense has managed just 13 points in the past two games without Jackson. Whether he can return Sunday could determine whether the team’s season can be salvaged — or if deeper issues persist on offense.
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