Ravens: Lamar Jackson a surprise absence from Thursday’s practice
By Justin Fried
The Baltimore Ravens have dealt with countless injuries over the past couple of months. And it’s possible that quarterback Lamar Jackson might be the latest addition to the injury report.
Jackson was a surprise absence from Thursday’s practice as the former league MVP wasn’t seen during the portion of practice open to the media.
It’s unclear why Jackson was absent at the time of writing, although some have speculated that it might have something to do with his comments following Wednesday’s practice.
Jackson was a full participant on Wednesday but admitted to the media after the practice that he felt “a little sore” after his end-zone flip in Sunday night’s thrilling victory over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Did he make that comment in jest or was there something more to it? Initially, most assumed the former. But there might be some substance to the latter after all.
Lamar Jackson’s absence is a mystery to Ravens fans
Jackson’s performance on Sunday night helped lead his team to victory in the unlikeliest of fashions. The 24-year-old finished 18-of-26 in the air for 239 yards and a touchdown while adding 107 yards and two scores on the ground.
One of those scores came on a 3rd-and-goal with a little over three minutes to play in the game where Jackson faked a handoff and waltzed into the end zone for what would be the game-winning score.
Although, his trot wasn’t so much of a waltz as it was a flip.
Jackson’s flipping score went viral soon after the game and it seemed to be the cherry on top of what was an incredible night for the Ravens Flock. However, fans are now holding their breath following Jackson’s absence from practice.
The Ravens are set to take on the lowly Detroit Lions this Sunday in a game they will be the heavy favorites. But if Jackson can’t go, Baltimore will be forced to lean on former undrafted rookie Tyler Huntley who would be tasked with making his first career start.
That’s not a situation the Ravens want to find themselves in which is why it’s imperative that Lamar Jackson is healthy.
Thus far, there has been no indication that any potential injury would result in an extended absence, but Ravens fans are certainly holding their breath right now.