The Baltimore Ravens listed quarterback Lamar Jackson as questionable for their Week 7 matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals after a full week of limited participation in practice, leaving his status for Sunday’s game up in the air.
Jackson, 29, said that he was “heading in the right direction” to return from his two-game absence. The ninth-year quarterback went down in Week 5 against the Titans with an ankle injury that has been the subject of rampant speculation over the last two weeks. He revealed on Friday that he was dealing with a high ankle sprain, contradicting a report from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
“He part of the training staff?” Jackson joked.
The two-time MVP insisted that his condition was improving, but he is still struggling to put pressure on his left leg while running. He said he does not have to be at 100% to play, but characterized playing through injuries last year as “dumb, a little bit.” Remaining limited in Friday’s practice suggests that Jackson is not fully ready to play, but he twice noted having a “grace period” before making a final decision.
The Ravens will have to be careful with how they handle Jackson’s status for Sunday. Last year, he was initially listed as questionable in Week 8 after a limited-limited-full practice week, his first since injuring his hamstring three weeks prior. He was ruled out on Saturday, prompting an investigation from the NFL and a $100,000 fine.
The Ravens also listed defensive tackle Broderick Washington (ankle) as questionable on their final Week 7 injury report. Safety Jaylinn Hawkins (knee) and outside linebacker Tavius Robinson (pectoral) were ruled out; the latter will not play against this season and will likely be placed on injured reserve on Saturday. Cornerback T.J. Tampa (knee) is doubtful and will likely need at least one more week of practice before being activated from IR.
By comparison, the Bengals are coming into Sunday’s matchup significantly healthier. They did not list a single player with an official injury designation for their trip to Baltimore.