Lamar Jackson’s Practice Absence Raises Concerns Over Hamstring Recovery

The Baltimore Ravens entered their first practice following a bye week with high hopes for their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. After missing two consecutive games due to a hamstring injury, expectations were set for his return. However, the reality was a disappointment.

No Show at Practice

On Monday, Jackson was noticeably absent from practice, as reported by ESPN’s Jamison Hensley. “QB Lamar Jackson remains sidelined with a hamstring injury. The 2-time NFL MVP did not participate in Monday’s practice, which was the Ravens’ first one since coming off the bye,” Hensley noted. Jackson last took the field on September 28, when he suffered the injury during a game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Coach’s Optimism

Prior to the bye week, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh expressed optimism regarding Jackson’s recovery. He suggested that Jackson might be back for Week 8 but stopped short of providing a definitive timeline. “We’re going to have healthy players coming back. Our quarterback’s going to be back,” Harbaugh stated. However, he added a note of caution, acknowledging the unpredictability of injuries: “I mean for sure? I’m saying so, but I don’t know. That’s how life is sometimes. You can’t predict everything. It’s still the future, but that’s the hope.”

Looking Ahead

While the Ravens might be taking a cautious approach with Jackson, allowing him a few extra days to recover, the lack of participation in practice does raise concerns about his readiness for the upcoming game. The team is not required to provide an injury report until Wednesday, which will mark their official practice of the week.

As the days progress, the uncertainty surrounding Jackson’s status looms large. Given the importance of his role, both for the Ravens’ aspirations this season and for fans’ hopes, all eyes will be on his recovery journey in the days leading up to the game.