Lamar Jackson Injury Update: Will Ravens Star Return Against Dolphins in Week 9?

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson could make his long-awaited return in Week 9 as the team prepares for a Thursday night showdown against the Miami Dolphins. Head coach John Harbaugh said he is “hopeful” that Jackson will be back after missing three straight games with a hamstring injury.

The update comes after the Ravens’ Week 8 win over the Chicago Bears, where backup Tyler Huntley stepped up in Jackson’s absence. With Jackson nearing a comeback, Baltimore has now become a seven-point favorite on the road — a strong sign that oddsmakers expect him to play.

Lamar Jackson’s Recovery and Team Confidence

Jackson has been sidelined since Week 4 after sustaining a hamstring injury that limited his mobility during practice. Despite progressing well, he was ruled out in Week 8, though he came close to playing. According to team officials, the final decision this week will depend on how his leg responds to increased practice workload.

Harbaugh’s latest comments reflect optimism: “We’re hopeful, but we’ll see how the week goes. It’s a short turnaround, so it’ll depend on how he feels.” That statement has already shifted betting confidence toward Baltimore, suggesting that Jackson’s return could swing both game strategy and sportsbook odds.

Last week, the Ravens opened as 6.5-point favorites before Jackson was ruled out, which caused the line to drop nearly five points. Once backup Huntley was confirmed to start, the spread closed at Ravens -1.5. The team still managed to cover, but the dramatic odds movement highlighted just how valuable Jackson is to Baltimore’s success.

What Jackson’s Return Means for Week 9

If Jackson returns, the Ravens’ offense will regain its trademark dual-threat capability. His ability to extend plays, scramble under pressure, and throw deep has been sorely missed. The Dolphins’ defense, known for heavy blitz packages, may have to adjust significantly if Jackson is under center.

For fantasy football players, Jackson’s comeback would immediately raise the stock of key offensive weapons like Zay Flowers and Mark Andrews. Bettors should monitor practice reports early in the week, as a full participation update would all but confirm his return.

If Jackson is still limited, Baltimore may again rely on Huntley’s consistency to manage the game. Huntley impressed against Chicago, completing 17 of 22 passes for 186 yards and adding 53 rushing yards, but facing Miami’s defense will be a tougher task.

In short, the “Lamar Jackson injury update” is the defining storyline heading into Week 9. His presence could dictate the flow of Thursday night’s game — and possibly the Ravens’ position atop the AFC North standings.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Will Lamar Jackson play against the Dolphins?

Head coach John Harbaugh said he is “hopeful” Jackson will play, but the final decision depends on his midweek practice performance.

Q2: What is Lamar Jackson’s injury?

Jackson has been dealing with a right hamstring injury since Week 4, which caused him to miss three consecutive games.

Q3: How have the odds changed?

The Ravens opened as seven-point favorites for Thursday’s matchup, signaling that oddsmakers expect Jackson to return.

Q4: What happens if Jackson doesn’t play?

Backup Tyler Huntley would start again. While capable, the Ravens’ offense would likely lean more on short passes and the running game.

Q5: How did the Ravens perform without Jackson?

The Ravens won in Week 8 against the Bears with Huntley, but their offense looked less explosive without Jackson’s mobility and playmaking ability.