Oct 27, 2024; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) throws the ball against the Cleveland Brownsduring the second quarter at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

nfl

Lamar Jackson misses practice as Ravens face depth challenges ahead of Broncos game

Is Jackson’s rest day hiding bigger issues? Back and knee trouble could mean more than just a midweek break for Baltimore’s star QB.

Following a tough loss in Cleveland and gearing up for two games in just five days, the Ravens held practice on Wednesday without quarterback Lamar Jackson.

Lamar Jackson was officially listed on the injury report with back and knee issues, but head coach John Harbaugh minimized his absence as Baltimore focused on preparing for Sunday’s home game against Denver.

#Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has a back and knee injury and did not practice today. pic.twitter.com/bSNEr9CSAh
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) October 30, 2024

Despite playing every offensive snap last Sunday, Jackson endured a season-high three sacks and 21 pressures, based on Pro Football Focus data. The Browns also hit him seven times in their 29-24 victory over the Ravens.

“A rest day. He’s been playing great, and we have a lot of football in front of us,” Harbaugh explained. “We have another big game coming up, so that was warranted today.”

Without Jackson, the team missed a chance for him to build on-field chemistry with new wide receiver Diontae Johnson, who practiced with the Ravens for the first time on Wednesday.

Defensive depth tested as Ravens prepare for Denver

Defensive linemen Travis Jones (ankle) and Brent Urban (concussion) were also missing from practice. Nose tackle Michael Pierce is officially on injured reserve with a calf issue, but Harbaugh clarified that it shouldn’t end his season.

Still, Baltimore’s defensive line is looking thin as they prepare to face the Broncos.

On a brighter note, cornerbacks Marlon Humphrey (knee) and Nate Wiggins (illness/shoulder) returned to practice on a limited basis after both missed Week 8.

Ravens are listing QB Lamar Jackson, who did not practice today, with back and knee injuries. pic.twitter.com/MZ62Xi5Y4t
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 30, 2024

“We’ll go day by day,” Harbaugh said. “They looked good today, and we’re looking forward to hopefully seeing them out there Sunday.”

Running back Keaton Mitchell (knee) fully participated in Wednesday’s practice after being designated to return from injured reserve last week.

Meanwhile, two Denver starters were absent on Wednesday. Safety P.J. Locke (thumb) and right tackle Mike McGlinchey (knee) both missed practice. Locke missed last Sunday’s game against Carolina, and McGlinchey continues to manage his knee carefully during practices since returning from injured reserve earlier this month.

Image Credit: © Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson injury

Natasha Bose

I write about sports because, well, it brings in the big bucks! I’m not some lifelong analyst or stats guru, truth being told, you’ve probably never heard of me!—I just know how to research, write, and make things sound good. That’s the job!
Got into sports media the same way most people do: by (fortunate) accident. Started with SEO writing, took on a few sports gigs, and now here we are! I cover games, trades, player drama—whatever needs words.
Favorite part? The chaos. One day it’s a blockbuster trade, the next it’s a goat running onto the field. Never boring.
Message to readers: If you want deep analysis, there are people for that. If you want sharp, no-BS writing that actually makes sense, stick around.