Is Lamar Jackson Playing Today? Ravens QB Ruled Out vs. Bears in Week 8

Baltimore Ravens star quarterback Lamar Jackson will not play today against the Chicago Bears in Week 8 of the NFL season. The former MVP is sidelined due to a lingering hamstring injury, marking his third straight missed game. Jackson is reportedly targeting a return in Week 9 against the Miami Dolphins.

Jackson’s absence has forced the Ravens to turn to backup Tyler Huntley once again. The team’s offense has struggled without Jackson, dropping both games since his injury in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Lamar Jackson Injury Update and Return Timeline

According to reports from multiple league insiders, Lamar Jackson was officially listed as questionable heading into Week 8 but will not suit up. Despite returning to practice this week as a full participant with the scout team, Baltimore decided to keep him sidelined for another week to ensure full recovery.

Jackson’s injury occurred during a scramble in the fourth quarter of the Week 4 matchup versus the Chiefs. Since then, the Ravens have gone 0-2 and fallen to 1-5 on the season, a worrying start for a team that entered 2025 with playoff expectations.

The Ravens have seen a dramatic betting line shift following confirmation of Jackson’s absence. Oddsmakers at DraftKings moved the line from Ravens -6.5 to -1.5, signaling a major swing in favor of the Bears. Chicago comes into the matchup at 4-2 and riding a four-game win streak, while Baltimore is desperate to turn things around.

When healthy, Jackson has been among the league’s most dynamic players. Through four games this season, he’s thrown for 869 yards with 10 touchdowns and just one interception, while also rushing for 166 yards and a score. His dual-threat presence is irreplaceable for Baltimore’s offensive rhythm.

Impact on Ravens Offense and Betting Outlook

With Jackson sidelined, Tyler Huntley will take over as the starter once again. Huntley has shown flashes of potential in previous starts, but the Ravens’ offensive efficiency has clearly dipped without Jackson. The team’s ability to sustain drives and capitalize in the red zone has been limited in his absence.

From a betting perspective, Jackson’s absence not only affects the point spread but also the over/under total, which has dropped several points following the injury news. Bettors and fantasy football managers alike are adjusting expectations for Baltimore’s offense this week.

The Ravens remain listed at +2800 to win the Super Bowl according to major sportsbooks, but those odds could lengthen further if they fall again in Week 8. A Week 9 return against the Miami Dolphins now appears likely, giving fans hope for a rebound in the coming stretch.

Lamar Jackson’s injury continues to shape the Ravens’ 2025 season storyline. Baltimore will rely on its defense and running game to stay competitive until its star quarterback is back under center.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Lamar Jackson playing today?

No, Lamar Jackson will not play today against the Chicago Bears due to a hamstring injury. He is expected to return in Week 9.

Q2: Who is starting for the Ravens in Week 8?

Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley will start in place of Lamar Jackson against the Bears.

Q3: When did Lamar Jackson get injured?

Jackson suffered his hamstring injury in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs and has missed three straight games.

Q4: What are the latest Ravens betting odds without Lamar Jackson?

The Ravens dropped from 6.5-point favorites to just 1.5-point favorites versus Chicago after the news of Jackson’s absence.

Q5: When will Lamar Jackson likely return?

He’s expected to make his return in Week 9 against the Miami Dolphins if he continues to progress in practice.