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1/12/23

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Ravens' Lamar Jackson Will Not Play in Wild-Card Game vs. Bengals

Baltimore Ravens Lamar Jackson
Dec 4, 2022; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) reacts on the sideline in the second quarter after being sacked against the Denver Broncos at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson will not play Sunday in the Ravens' wild-card matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals. Jackson himself announced the news Thursday night, after an earlier ESPN report indicated he was doubtful to play.

"I've suffered a PCL grade 2 sprain on the borderline of a strain 3. There is still inflammation surrounding my knee and my knee remains unstable," Jackson's announcement began, before continuing, "I'm still in good spirits, as I continue with treatments on the road to recovery. I wish I could be out there with my guys more than anything, but I can't give 100% of myself to my guys and fans. I'm still hopeful we still have a chance."

Jackson's status had been up in the air for most of the week heading into the team's game at Cincinnati. Jackson has neither played nor practiced since Week 13 when he injured his knee against the Broncos.

 

Despite Jackson's injury, Baltimore persevered and made the playoffs as a wild-card team, relying on Tyler Huntley and Anthony Brown to help them to a 10-7 finish. Without Jackson and Huntley in Week 18, Baltimore fell to Cincinnati 27-16. The Ravens took a 19-17 victory over the Bengals in Week 5, with a healthy Jackson at QB.

Huntley, who missed Week 18 due to tendinitis in his throwing shoulder, returned to practice Thursday. He was able to throw passes and work out with the team — potentially putting him in line to start for the Ravens on Sunday.

Jackson, meanwhile, is in need of a new contract, though negotiations have been fruitless thus far. Jackson's inability to stay healthy could become a major factor in those negotiations. The Ravens' QB, who does not have an agent, has played only 12 games in each of the past two seasons.


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