Ravens QB Lamar Jackson misses practice again due to ankle injury ahead of Jets game

Lamar Jackson's ongoing ankle injury raises significant concerns for the Ravens as they prepare to host the New York Jets this Sunday.

Why it matters: The absence of Jackson, who has not practiced for two consecutive weeks, could impact the Ravens' performance and playoff aspirations.

• Currently positioned at a 5-5 record, Baltimore has seen its quarterback struggle with injuries throughout the season, having missed three games due to a hamstring issue and several practices.
• Jackson's health is critical as he remains the focal point of the Ravens’ offense, which heavily relies on his dual-threat capabilities.

What’s new: Jackson's inability to practice follows a tough outing against the Cleveland Browns, where he was sacked five times—a stark reflection of the offensive line’s struggles to protect him.

• Four of those sacks were credited to defensive star Myles Garrett, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in the Ravens' pass protection scheme.
• This season, Jackson has been sacked an average of 3.2 times per game, marking the highest rate of his career, which places additional strain on his ability to execute plays effectively.

Yes, but: Despite these challenges, head coach John Harbaugh remains optimistic about Jackson's contributions when healthy.

• "Lamar is winning games. Finding ways to win—that's what counts," Harbaugh noted, emphasizing Jackson's ability to lead the team even amidst adversity.
• Although his recent performances have included a passer rating of just 47.6—his second-worst ever—Jackson’s leadership and experience are invaluable assets.

What to watch: As the Ravens prepare for their next matchup, all eyes will be on Jackson's recovery and whether he can return to practice ahead of the Jets game.

• If Jackson is unable to play, backup options may include undrafted rookie quarterbacks or a shift in offensive strategy that could significantly alter the play-calling dynamics.
• Given Jackson's current form, the Ravens must weigh the risks of rushing him back versus the potential benefits in their playoff push.

The bottom line: The upcoming game against the Jets is critical for the Ravens, and Jackson's health will undoubtedly influence not only that contest but also the trajectory of their season moving forward.

• With the playoffs on the horizon, ensuring Jackson is fit to lead will be paramount for the Ravens if they hope to make a deep postseason run.