Baltimore, MD – According to FOX Baltimore, the Baltimore Ravens saw a boost in player participation during Thursday’s practice session as they prepared for their upcoming matchup against the New York Jets in Week 12. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, who had been sidelined with an ankle injury, returned to the field alongside five other key team members, signaling positive developments for the team’s health ahead of Sunday’s game.
The practice, held at the Under Armour Performance Center in Owings Mills, Maryland, marked a significant step forward for the Ravens, who have been navigating a series of injuries throughout the season. Jackson, the team’s star quarterback and a two-time NFL MVP, had missed the previous day’s session due to the ankle issue but showed no visible signs of limitation during Thursday’s workout. His return is crucial for the Ravens, who rely heavily on his dual-threat ability to drive the offense.
In addition to Jackson, linebacker Roquan Smith (hamstring), safety Kyle Hamilton (shoulder/groin), tight end Isaiah Likely (calf), left guard Andrew Vorhees (foot), and left tackle Ronnie Stanley (illness) all participated fully in practice. This group represents a core of starters whose availability had been in question earlier in the week. Head coach John Harbaugh expressed optimism about the progress, noting that the team’s medical staff had cleared the players for full involvement after careful evaluation.
The Ravens’ injury report from Wednesday had listed Jackson as limited, but his upgrade to full participation on Thursday alleviated concerns among fans and analysts. Smith, a Pro Bowl linebacker and defensive captain, had been dealing with a hamstring strain that limited his snaps in recent games. Hamilton, the team’s versatile safety, continues to manage lingering effects from earlier injuries but appeared agile during drills. Likely and Vorhees, both offensive contributors, had been nursing minor ailments, while Stanley’s illness was described as short-term.
Despite the good news, the Ravens still face challenges on the injury front. Wide receiver Rashod Bateman (ankle) and cornerback Keyon Martin (ribs) did not participate in practice, remaining on the sidelines as they continue recovery efforts. Bateman’s absence is particularly notable, as he has been a key target for Jackson in the passing game this season. The team hopes both players can return soon, but Harbaugh indicated that their status for the Jets game remains day-to-day.
This week’s practice reports are especially important as the Ravens aim to build momentum heading into the latter part of the season. With a 6-4 record entering Week 12, Baltimore sits second in the AFC North, trailing the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Jets, at 4-6, present a winnable matchup, but New York’s defense, led by quarterback Aaron Rodgers, will test the Ravens’ revamped lineup. Jackson’s return could be the difference-maker, given his season stats of over 2,500 passing yards and 600 rushing yards through 10 games.
Harbaugh emphasized the importance of health in post-practice comments, stating that the team’s depth has been tested but that the returns on Thursday provide a solid foundation for game planning. The Ravens focused on red-zone efficiency and third-down conversions during the session, areas where Jackson’s precision passing has shone this year. One statistical highlight from the practice was the offense’s success in simulated drives, completing 80% of third-down attempts with the full roster participating.
As the Ravens fine-tune their preparations, the focus remains on integrating the returning players seamlessly. For instance, Smith’s presence bolsters the run defense, which has allowed an average of 120 rushing yards per game this season. The team’s training staff continues to monitor all players closely, ensuring no setbacks occur before Sunday’s kickoff at M&T Bank Stadium.
The positive injury updates come at a pivotal time, with the Ravens eyeing a strong finish to secure a playoff spot. Fans in Maryland and beyond will be watching closely as Baltimore takes on the Jets, hoping for a healthy and victorious performance.