Posted on Jan 01

Ravens QB Jackson returns to practice, expected to play against Steelers for AFC North title

Posted Jan 1, 2026

#lamar-jackson #ravens #steelers #injury

Lamar Jackson is expected to return for the Ravens' crucial AFC North title game against the Steelers after recovering from a back contusion.

Why it matters: Jackson's presence is pivotal not only for the team's playoff aspirations but also for the overall dynamics of the AFC North, where both teams are vying for postseason positioning.

The Ravens currently hold an 8-8 record, while the Steelers sit at 9-7, making this matchup a deciding factor in the division race.
A win would secure the AFC’s No. 4 seed and a home game in the wild-card round for the victorious team.

What’s new: After missing significant time due to injury, Jackson returned to practice as a full participant on Wednesday, instilling optimism within the organization.

Head coach John Harbaugh expressed confidence in Jackson's ability to play, stating, “He looked good. I'm very optimistic [that he'll play Sunday].”
Jackson was sidelined for 12 days following his injury against the New England Patriots on December 21 and missed the previous game against Green Bay.

Yes, but: Jackson's historical performance against the Steelers raises concerns about his effectiveness in this high-stakes matchup.

In four games at Acrisure Stadium, Jackson has suffered three losses, throwing three touchdown passes against six interceptions while being sacked 18 times.
This season, he averages just 192.6 passing yards per game, ranking him 26th in the NFL, coupled with a career-low average of 28.3 rushing yards per game.

The big picture: Jackson's toughness has been praised by teammates, which could play a crucial role in his performance against a familiar rival.

Cornerback Marlon Humphrey noted that the Steelers have historically posed challenges for Jackson, adding, “the Steelers in the past seem like it's been a team that's always been kind of a knife in our side, especially him.”
Safety Kyle Hamilton defended Jackson's character, asserting, “I've been around this dude for the past four years, and I know what he's about. He’s a warrior, and I respect him.”

What to watch: As kick-off approaches, all eyes will be on Jackson's mobility and decision-making ability under pressure from a Steelers defense known for its tenacity.

Both teams will likely target their running games heavily, with Jackson needing to utilize his dual-threat capabilities to keep the Steelers off balance.
The outcome may hinge on whether Jackson can overcome his recent struggles against Pittsburgh and exploit any weaknesses in their defensive schemes.

The bottom line: With playoff implications riding on this game, Jackson's readiness and effectiveness will be critical for the Ravens’ chances of securing the AFC North crown.

Ravens QB Jackson returns to practice, expected to play against Steelers for AFC North title

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 1, 2026

Lamar Jackson is expected to return for the Ravens' crucial AFC North title game against the Steelers after recovering from a back contusion.

The Ravens currently hold an 8-8 record, while the Steelers sit at 9-7, making this matchup a deciding factor in the division race.

A win would secure the AFC’s No. 4 seed and a home game in the wild-card round for the victorious team.

What’s new: After missing significant time due to injury, Jackson returned to practice as a full participant on Wednesday, instilling optimism within the organization.

Head coach John Harbaugh expressed confidence in Jackson's ability to play, stating, “He looked good. I'm very optimistic [that he'll play Sunday].”

Jackson was sidelined for 12 days following his injury against the New England Patriots on December 21 and missed the previous game against Green Bay.

Yes, but: Jackson's historical performance against the Steelers raises concerns about his effectiveness in this high-stakes matchup.

In four games at Acrisure Stadium, Jackson has suffered three losses, throwing three touchdown passes against six interceptions while being sacked 18 times.

This season, he averages just 192.6 passing yards per game, ranking him 26th in the NFL, coupled with a career-low average of 28.3 rushing yards per game.

The big picture: Jackson's toughness has been praised by teammates, which could play a crucial role in his performance against a familiar rival.

Cornerback Marlon Humphrey noted that the Steelers have historically posed challenges for Jackson, adding, “the Steelers in the past seem like it's been a team that's always been kind of a knife in our side, especially him.”

Safety Kyle Hamilton defended Jackson's character, asserting, “I've been around this dude for the past four years, and I know what he's about. He’s a warrior, and I respect him.”

What to watch: As kick-off approaches, all eyes will be on Jackson's mobility and decision-making ability under pressure from a Steelers defense known for its tenacity.

Both teams will likely target their running games heavily, with Jackson needing to utilize his dual-threat capabilities to keep the Steelers off balance.

The outcome may hinge on whether Jackson can overcome his recent struggles against Pittsburgh and exploit any weaknesses in their defensive schemes.

The bottom line: With playoff implications riding on this game, Jackson's readiness and effectiveness will be critical for the Ravens’ chances of securing the AFC North crown.