Lamar Jackson injury update: Will Ravens QB play Week 18 vs Steelers?
Lamar Jackson's availability for the crucial Week 18 clash against the Steelers is uncertain due to a painful back injury. While optimism is growing with potential midweek practice, the Ravens are prioritizing his long-term health. His return would significantly boost Baltimore's offense and complicate Pittsburgh's defensive strategy.
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The Baltimore Ravens’ heading into Week 18 a major question arises: will Lamar Jackson be available for the final clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers? With the AFC North title on the line, Jackson’s status has become the defining storyline of the final week of the regular season.
Lamar Jackson’s injury status ahead of Week 18
Jackson missed Baltimore’s Week 17 game against the Green Bay Packers after suffering a painful back injury in Week 16. While the Ravens managed to win without him, the absence of their franchise quarterback raised immediate concerns about his availability for the most important game of the season.According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, there is renewed optimism. Rapoport reported that Jackson is expected to practice midweek, a significant step forward after he was unable to participate at all last week.
If confirmed, it would mark Jackson’s first on-field work since the injury occurred.
Jackson's involvement in practice doesn't mean he'll be available, but it does strongly suggest that he's going in the right direction.John Harbaugh, the head coach of the Ravens, has said that the team will not rush Jackson back until he is completely ready. Internally, the injury has been called "painful," and Baltimore is putting long-term health ahead of short-term goals.
How Lamar Jackson's return affects the Ravens vs. Steelers game
If Jackson is cleared, it would make things a lot easier for Baltimore. The two-time MVP has a level of explosiveness and playmaking that no backup can match, especially when playing against a division foe on the road.
The Ravens have played it safe on offense since Jackson left. That method works well sometimes, but it might not be enough against a Steelers defense that does well when there is pressure and turnovers. In a close, low-scoring game, Jackson's ability to move around and make plays could be the difference.Jackson's possible comeback makes things harder for the Steelers. Not only would defensive game plans have to change because of his arm, but also because of his legs. This would force Pittsburgh to cover the whole width of the field.At this point, Jackson is officially day-to-day, and we should know more about his Week 18 status before the end of the week. Before coming to any conclusions, Ravens supporters should keep a close eye on injury reports and who is practicing.Also Read: Patrick Mahomes breaks silence after Tyreek Hill suffers horrific injury