Lamar Jackson Injury Update: Ravens Coach Hopeful for Week 8 Return After Bye

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson will not play in Week 7. The team is on a bye week following a difficult loss. Jackson is recovering from a hamstring injury suffered in Week 4.

Head coach John Harbaugh provided a hopeful update on Jackson’s status. He indicated the star QB is targeting a return for the Week 8 game against the Chicago Bears. The Ravens’ offense has struggled significantly without its leader on the field.

Ravens Struggle Without Star Quarterback

Jackson missed his second consecutive game in Week 6. The Ravens lost to the Los Angeles Rams with a final score of 17-3. This defeat dropped the team’s record to 1-5 for the season.

This marks the franchise’s worst start since 2015. Backup quarterback Cooper Rush started in Jackson’s place. The offense managed only 72 passing yards and committed three total turnovers. According to The Baltimore Sun, the unit looked completely lost without its dynamic playmaker.

Harbaugh Expresses Cautious Optimism for Return

Coach John Harbaugh addressed Jackson’s timeline directly. He expressed confidence while acknowledging the uncertainty of injury recovery. “I’m saying so,” Harbaugh told reporters, referring to a Week 8 return.

His comments were reported by USA Today. Harbaugh noted that the initial recovery window was two to three weeks. The team never placed Jackson on injured reserve. This decision signals their expectation for a relatively quick return.

The coach also emphasized Jackson’s importance to the team. He called getting the quarterback back a “big one” for the struggling Ravens. Several other injured players are also expected back after the bye.

Can Jackson Spark a Ravens Turnaround?

Baltimore has lost four consecutive games. The team has dropped 10 of its last 12 contests dating back to last season. The defense showed improvement against the Rams, but the offense remains anemic.

Jackson’s return is seen as the potential catalyst for a season turnaround. His ability as a dual-threat quarterback fundamentally changes the offense. As reported by CBS Sports, his presence alone forces defenses to adjust their entire game plan.

The Ravens face the Chicago Bears on October 27th. All eyes will be on Jackson’s practice participation leading up to that game. His health remains the single biggest factor for Baltimore’s second-half prospects.

The Ravens’ playoff hopes may hinge on a healthy Lamar Jackson. His anticipated return provides a crucial spark for the struggling franchise. The entire organization is counting on his Week 8 comeback.

Info at your fingertips

What is Lamar Jackson’s specific injury?

Lamar Jackson is dealing with a hamstring injury. He suffered it during the Week 4 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. The team has not disclosed the injury’s specific grade or severity.

When is the earliest Lamar Jackson can return?

The earliest possible return is Week 8 against the Chicago Bears. The Ravens have a Week 7 bye, giving him extra recovery time. Coach Harbaugh has indicated this is the current target.

How has the Ravens‘ offense performed without Jackson?

The offense has struggled significantly without Jackson. In Week 6, they passed for only 72 yards. The unit has scored just one touchdown across the two games he has missed.

What is the Ravens’ current record without Jackson?

The Ravens lost both games Jackson missed. Their overall record fell to 1-5 after the Week 6 defeat. The team is on a four-game losing streak.

Why didn’t the Ravens place Jackson on injured reserve?

Not placing him on IR suggests a shorter recovery timeline. IR would have required him to miss at least four games. The team’s decision indicates confidence in a quicker return.

Trusted Sources: USA Today, The Baltimore Sun, CBS Sports