Baltimore Ravens quarterback returns to full practice, but questions persist

Lamar Jackson is dealing with a high ankle sprain that has kept him from the field for three consecutive games. The Baltimore Ravens quarterback took part in a full practice session on Wednesday, a move that signals a potential return to action in the near future.

Coach Jesse Minter stated that Jackson's ability to respond to drills and his physical feelings during the session raised the team's optimism. Minter noted that the coaching staff will continue to monitor Jackson's progress throughout the week to determine his final status. The Ravens are scheduled to play the Buffalo Bills on Sunday.

Jackson has missed three games since injuring his ankle on October 7. Minter indicated on that date that there was time to assess the injury before the following weekend. The quarterback has been a key figure for Baltimore since becoming a full-time starter in 2019. He currently ranks seventh in career starts among NFL quarterbacks.

The Ravens have maintained a guarded approach to Jackson's health, a strategy consistent with previous seasons. Coach John Harbaugh previously described a knee injury in 2022 as not season-ending, yet Jackson did not play again that year. Jackson later revealed on social media that he suffered a grade 2 posterior cruciate ligament sprain and that his knee remained unstable.

Jackson told reporters last week that medical staff diagnosed him with a high ankle sprain. He explained that his focus is on moving with his natural agility, stating that he cannot help the team if he cannot perform at that level. The quarterback said he is trying to move in the way he is accustomed to.

Correspondent Marlon Humphrey commented on the external speculation surrounding Jackson's availability. Humphrey suggested that the lack of a public advocate for the player contributes to the uncertainty. He stated that if Jackson is healthy enough to play, he will suit up.

The 2025 season offered a cautionary example of playing through injury. Jackson suffered a hamstring injury in Week 4 and was limited in the latter part of the year. He described his decision to play while hurt as a mistake, noting that he was not at his full physical capabilities.

Financial pressures add weight to the situation. Jackson carries a cap hit of approximately $84 million in 2027, the final year of his current contract. The team and player will need to negotiate an extension to spread that cost. Jackson turns 30 in January 2026.

Jackson won the MVP award in 2023 and was named an All-Pro in 2024. He was performing at a high level early in the 2026 season before the ankle injury ended his streak of appearances.