There’s finally some good news for Baltimore Ravens fans, Lamar Jackson is back on the field. The star quarterback returned to practice on Wednesday for the first time in 24 days after suffering a hamstring injury in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Still, his availability for the Ravens’ Week 8 matchup against the Chicago Bears remains uncertain. Wednesday’s limited practice was an encouraging sign, but it’s too early to say whether he’ll be cleared to play. The team’s upcoming practice sessions will give a better picture of his progress.
Head coach John Harbaugh didn’t reveal much when asked about Jackson’s chances of returning this week. “It’s hard to put a number on it,” Harbaugh told ESPN’s Jamison Hensley. “It’s part of the process now. I really don’t have any shareable injury intelligence for you at this point.”
Jackson has missed three straight games since the injury, and the Ravens have struggled without him. They’re sitting at 1-5 and can’t afford to drop many more if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.
For fantasy football players, Jackson’s return would be a huge relief. If he’s cleared to play, he’s an automatic start. He was drafted as one of the top quarterbacks in fantasy, and his ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground makes him a must-have in any lineup.
His return would also give a big boost to the rest of Baltimore’s offence. Wide receiver Zay Flowers tends to shine when Jackson is under centre, and tight end Mark Andrews, who’s been nearly unplayable with Cooper Rush filling in, would instantly become a strong fantasy option again.
For now, it’s a waiting game. Jackson’s comeback from injury seems close, but the Ravens are being cautious. If he practices fully later in the week, fans could see him back in action on Sunday, leading Baltimore’s desperate push to turn their season around.
