The Baltimore Ravens are facing a critical moment after star quarterback Lamar Jackson suffered a back injury during their week 16 matchup against the New England Patriots, a critical game for the team’s AFC North aspirations.
Jackson was injured late in the first half after a three-yard run on first down. On the play, the 28-year-old quarterback slid to the turf and, while he initially stayed in the game, the discomfort became increasingly difficult to manage as the contest progressed.
Jackson took part in the very next snap, handing the ball off to running back Keaton Mitchell. Shortly afterward, he called for a timeout and headed to the sideline to be evaluated by the medical staff, an early warning sign that cast doubt over his availability for the second half. Once the initial examination was completed, Jackson was taken to the locker room for further evaluation.
Minutes later, the Ravens announced that Jackson was “questionable” to return due to a back injury, setting off alarms inside M&T Bank Stadium-not only for the remainder of the game, but also for the final two contests of the regular season.
NBC sideline reporter Melissa Stark added to the concern, reporting that Jackson was “clearly showing signs of pain” as he made his way to the locker room and even appeared to struggle while climbing the tunnel stairs.
Harbaugh addresses Jackson’s injury
Ravens head coach John Harbaugh was asked about his quarterback’s status and confirmed that the medical team was working extensively in hopes of getting him back on the field.
“They’re working on him right now, stretching him,” Harbaugh said in broadcast. “We’ll see how he feels when that’s finished.”
Despite those efforts, Jackson remained sidelined for the Ravens’ opening offensive series of the second half. Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley took over the offense. Huntley has delivered solid results when called upon this season, winning his lone start while completing 73 percent of his passes for 254 yards and a touchdown.
A prolonged absence for Jackson would represent a significant blow for a Ravens team that must keep winning to stay alive in the divisional race, particularly following the Pittsburgh Steelers latest victory.
After sunday’s game, Baltimore will travel to face the Green Bay Packers on saturday, September 27, before closing the regular season with a crucial matchup against the Steelers on january 4.
