Lamar Jackson, one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the NFL, will be sidelined for an indefinite period after recently being diagnosed with COVID-19. He pulled his hamstring in Sunday’s 37-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Jackson exited the game during the middle of the third quarter. Since then, he’s missed each of the Ravens’ practices all of this week, putting his ability to play going forward in doubt.
It will be the first time Jackson will miss a game this season due to injury. His most recent absence came in the wild-card loss to the Cincinnati Bengals in January 2023. At only 28 years of age, Jackson has proven to be a key figure on the field for Baltimore. He’s been doing this at a high level this season, despite his team’s ongoing disarray. As it stands today, he’s fifth in the NFL for Total QBR with a remarkable 72.8. He’s passed for 10 touchdowns and only one interception.
Jackson’s impact leadershipwise on the field is unprecedented, and incomparable to any leader the Ravens have ever had. Given his presence on the field, both Baltimore and Jackson have made their way to third in the league—averaging 32.8 points scored per game. He’s been subject to extreme corporal punishment this year. He’s been sacked 15 times, the second most in the league—and he’s taken a ton of hits. His loss is a significant blow to Baltimore’s defense. They don’t want to make history by becoming just the second franchise to begin a season 1-4 twice, joining the Dallas Cowboys.
The Ravens have a track record of floundering without their former MVP QB. Since 2018, they’ve floundered in Jackson’s absence, generating just a 4-10 mark in those games. In that span, they’ve managed an average of just 16.6 points per game. The team’s lost all four of their games without him and haven’t even won a game since December 2022.
Head Coach John Harbaugh expressed confidence in Jackson’s dedication to recovery:
“I know he is doing everything to get right, but he’s been around.” – Rush
He emphasized the importance of Jackson playing in his unique style:
“He has to play his style, the way he plays, within the offense.” – Harbaugh
As the Ravens prepare for their next matchup without their two-time NFL MVP, they will need to rally together and find a way to overcome this significant loss. The team is focused on staying out of the docks and sailing up the leaderboard as they continue through these stormy waters.
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