Ravens QB Jackson returns to lineup for Buffalo

Lamar Jackson will suit up for the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills. The quarterback stated that the pain in his left ankle is bearable. He missed the previous three games due to a high ankle sprain.

Jackson participated fully in all three practices this week. This was the first time he practiced without limitation since injuring his ankle during a win over the Tennessee Titans. That game took place 26 days ago. He had his left ankle taped during every session.

Media observing the practices did not see Jackson running at full speed. He jogged briskly without favoring the injured foot. When asked about his condition compared to the prior week, Jackson replied, It's better. It's better.

The team acknowledged a rust factor. Coaches attempted to make practice drills resemble game conditions as closely as possible. Head coach Jesse Minter said he believes Jackson will look like his usual self. Minter noted that Jackson has handled the injury process well and is now positioned to play.

Baltimore has struggled without its star. Since becoming a full-time starter in 2019, the Ravens are 76-35 with Jackson on the field. They average 28 points per game in those contests. Without him over the past seven seasons, the record is 7-14. The team averages 17.6 points per game in his absence.

This season, the disparity is stark. In 14 quarters with Jackson, Baltimore scored 14 touchdowns. In 14 quarters without him, the Ravens scored five touchdowns. They scored no points in the second half during the last two games. Backup Tyler Huntley filled in during Jackson's absence.

The Ravens lost two straight games before this week. They currently sit in last place in the AFC North with a 4-3 record. Jackson faces a Bills defense that ranks 31st against the pass. Buffalo has won the last three matchups in their home stadium against Baltimore.

Jackson previously ruled himself out of last week's loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. He said his ankle was swollen when he woke up on Saturday. Before the injury, he ranked third in the NFL with an 82.6 quarterback rating. He had thrown six touchdown passes and one interception while leading quarterbacks with 144 rushing yards.