The Baltimore Ravens are gearing up for a critical Sunday clash against the Atlanta Falcons, but they will have to navigate this matchup without their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson. The team announced on Friday that Jackson has been ruled out due to an ankle injury, leaving Tyler Huntley set to take the helm in this pivotal game.
Head coach Jesse Minter confirmed Jackson's absence, revealing that the former MVP is dealing with what has been described as an "unconventional ankle sprain." While this injury is not categorized as low or high, reports from Ian Rapoport of ESPN and NFL Network suggest that the situation might not be short-lived. Initial insights indicated that Jackson could miss multiple games, although it is not considered a long-term or surgical concern.
Jackson's Injury Situation
Lamar Jackson suffered the sprain during the Ravens' recent victory over the Tennessee Titans, a matchup that ended with a close score of 24-18. The incident saw Jackson exit the field in a protective boot, highlighting the seriousness of his condition.
This marks a significant temporal trend in Jackson's career with Baltimore. After being drafted as the No. 32 overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Jackson has been the heart and soul of the Ravens since stepping into a leading role. However, the 2025 season recorded a challenging period for Jackson when he missed three games due to a hamstring injury, particularly one sustained against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 4, and another game against the Green Bay Packers because of a back issue.
The Ravens Without Jackson
It's undeniable that Jackson's presence is crucial to the team's success. Stat Muse notes a stark contrast in the Ravens' performance with and without him at the helm: since Jackson became the starter in 2019, Baltimore has struggled significantly without him, winning just 6 of 18 games, translating to a 6-12 record. In contrast, when Jackson starts, the Ravens boast an impressive 73-34 record.
In his absence, the Ravens are relying on Tyler Huntley, who is no stranger to stepping into a starting role. Previously, Huntley showcased his capabilities in Jackson's absence during the 2021 season when he guided the Ravens to an impressive 41-27 victory over the Green Bay Packers, further indicating that he can deliver under pressure.
Huntley's Experience and Capabilities
Huntley's tenure in the NFL spans six seasons, including five years with the Ravens, along with a stint with the Miami Dolphins. His experience in Baltimore's system provides a semblance of stability for the team as they transition to a backup quarterback during crucial games. His performance in previous matchups demonstrates his ability to step up when needed, especially against tough opponents.
As the Ravens face the Falcons on Sunday, this season has already been fraught with challenges for Baltimore, making Huntley's role all the more critical. The team will have to rally around their backup quarterback and adapt quickly to maintain their position in the competitive AFC North.
Looking Ahead
While the immediate concern is the upcoming matchup against Atlanta, the Ravens are mindful of Jackson's long-term health. Ensuring their star quarterback is ready to return at full strength is pivotal for their success in the remainder of the season. The player's injury predicament is a reminder of the physical toll that NFL athletes endure, and the need for teams to balance winning with the health of their key players.
As Baltimore navigates this next game, the performance of Tyler Huntley and the team's overall cohesion will be put to the test. The Ravens' ability to adapt and find ways to win without their star quarterback could define their trajectory for the rest of the season.
