Ravens-Bengals takes unexpected twist after Lamar Jackson injury update
The Baltimore Ravens face a crucial AFC North test against the Cincinnati Bengals, but uncertainty surrounding Lamar Jackson has complicated their preparations. The star quarterback has been working to recover from an ankle injury that has kept him out of Baltimore’s last two games.
Jackson’s potential return offered hope to a Ravens offense that has struggled to maintain its usual production without him. His mobility and playmaking ability remain central to the team’s attack, especially against a divisional rival led by Joe Burrow.
With the teams preparing for Sunday’s meeting, Jackson’s availability has become one of the biggest questions surrounding the matchup. Baltimore must now determine how to approach the game as the latest update changes expectations for its starting quarterback.
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Lamar Jackson injury update changes Ravens-Bengals matchup
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson Credit: Tommy Gilligan-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported a significant update on Jackson ahead of Baltimore’s Week 7 meeting with Cincinnati. The latest development leaves the Ravens preparing to face the Bengals without their two-time NFL MVP, with backup quarterback Tyler Huntley expected to start.
Jackson suffered a left ankle injury during Baltimore’s October 4 game against the Tennessee Titans. He missed the second half of that contest and sat out the Ravens’ next two games against the Atlanta Falcons and Cleveland Browns.
This marks the third straight game that Lamar Jackson will miss with his high ankle sprain. Tyler “Snoop” Huntley will start in his place once again. https://t.co/n9Sg1FLoj0
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 24, 2026
His absence has affected Baltimore’s offensive production, placing greater responsibility on Huntley to manage the passing game and provide mobility at quarterback. The Ravens now face another divisional test without the player who drives much of their offensive identity.
Jackson’s absence also changes Cincinnati’s defensive preparations. The Bengals can focus on Huntley’s tendencies rather than preparing for Jackson’s unique running threat alongside his passing ability.
Lamar Jackson went from questionable to Tyler Huntley starting
The latest development comes after Jackson was officially listed as questionable for Sunday’s game. He returned to practice this week and participated on a limited basis for three consecutive sessions, giving Baltimore reason to remain hopeful about his availability.
Jackson also told reporters Friday that he was “heading in the right direction.” He explained that his return would depend on whether he could move effectively and tolerate the pain in his ankle. Although those comments encouraged optimism, he stopped short of confirming that he would play.
Instead, Huntley is set to lead the Ravens against Burrow and the Bengals. Huntley started Baltimore’s previous two games, guiding the team to a win over Atlanta before a loss to Cleveland. He must now help the Ravens compete in another important divisional matchup.
For Cincinnati, the change removes the uncertainty surrounding Jackson’s availability but does not eliminate the challenge of facing Baltimore. The Bengals still need to contain Huntley’s mobility and prevent the Ravens from controlling the game through their ground attack.
Baltimore’s plans now depend on Huntley delivering a steady performance while Jackson continues his recovery. The quarterback change gives Sunday’s AFC North contest a different shape than many expected earlier in the week.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com — article syndicated from the publisher’s feed; all rights remain with the original publisher.