Lamar Jackson Injury Cloud Hangs Over Ravens-Steelers Showdown

Will Lamar Jackson Suit Up Against the Steelers?

BALTIMORE—Inside the Ravens’ facility on Thursday, the buzz wasn’t about the rivalry—it was about a right ankle wrapped in ice and the quarterback who limped off the practice field. Lamar Jackson, the pulse of Baltimore’s offense, is officially listed as questionable for Sunday’s AFC North clash with the Pittsburgh Steelers, leaving coaches, teammates, and a city on edge.

The Moment That Changed Everything

Jackson rolled the ankle late in the third quarter of last week’s win over Denver when a 300-pound defensive tackle rolled into his legs. Replays showed the 2019 MVP’s foot twist gruesomely beneath the pile; he finished the drive but did not return. Head coach John Harbaugh called the decision “precautionary,” yet refused to commit to his starter four days later.

“We’re taking it hour by hour,” Harbaugh said. “If he’s healthy, he’s our guy. If not, we’ll adjust.”

Behind the Scenes

Players privately describe Jackson as “antsy” in meetings, itching to reclaim the huddle. Backup Tyler Huntley—a Pro Bowl alternate last season—took every first-team rep Thursday, crisp on timing routes but aware of the stakes. A victory keeps Baltimore atop the division; a loss hands the Steelers season sweep and tie-breaker advantage.

What the Numbers Say

Without Jackson, the Ravens average 6.8 fewer points and 82 fewer total yards per game. Pittsburgh’s pass rush, led by T.J. Watt, ranks top-five in pressure rate. Offensive coordinator Todd Monken hinted at a quicker-release plan if Huntley starts, leaning on tight end Mark Andrews and rookie receiver Zay Flowers.

Timeline to Kickoff

• Friday: Jackson will test the ankle in a padded practice. Team sources say 80% participation is the unofficial benchmark for clearance.
• Saturday: Final injury report due at 4 p.m. ET; Harbaugh historically waits until the last possible moment on quarterbacks.
• Sunday 1 p.m.: M&T Bank Stadium gates open; fans will monitor warm-ups as intently as the scoreboard.

The Stakes Beyond Sunday

A lingering injury could jeopardize not only playoff seeding but Jackson’s MVP candidacy. He currently leads the league in touchdown percentage (8.1) and yards per carry (6.7). Sitting, however, could protect both ankle and future contract incentives—he’s in year one of a five-year, $260 million extension.

Voices Around the Locker Room

“We’ve got his back either way,” Andrews said. “But 8 in that huddle? Yeah, he’s different.”

Steelers safety Minkah Fitzpatrick offered a simpler take: “We’re preparing for Lamar until the stadium announcer says otherwise.”

Bottom Line

By Friday night, Baltimore will know whether its superstar quarterback can answer the bell in the league’s most physical rivalry. Until then, the ice bags stay on, the speculation swirls, and a city holds its collective breath.