Lamar Jackson Signals Intent to Return for Baltimore Ravens

Lamar Jackson is planning a return to the field this season. The Baltimore Ravens quarterback told teammates within 24 hours of his injury that he intends to play again later this year. Sources told NFL Network that the message was clear and firm.

Jackson described his outlook with the words, "Just stay alive." Teammates described his comments as energizing and exciting. This marked a sharp change in the locker room atmosphere. The group had previously feared the star quarterback's season was over.

The two-time MVP is undergoing surgery to repair a fractured and dislocated thumb on his throwing hand. He was placed on injured reserve recently. However, he has not been ruled out for the rest of the year. His remarks to the team indicate he believes a comeback is possible.

The standard recovery timeline for his injury is at least six weeks. It could stretch to nine weeks if rehabilitation is slower. If progress goes well, Jackson could return by early January. This assumes Baltimore stays in the playoff picture with Jacoby Brissett at quarterback. The Ravens currently hold a 4-5 record and have a bye in Week 13.

Jackson was hurt on the first offensive snap of last Sunday's loss to the Buffalo Bills. The three-time All-Pro had already missed the three games prior to that due to a high ankle sprain. The schedule offers little rest before the end of the season. The Ravens play the Cleveland Browns on Dec. 27. They then travel to Cincinnati four days later to face the Bengals. The regular season concludes at home against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 18.

Jacoby Brissett currently holds the starting job. Baltimore finalized the trade for him on Friday. He is expected to start Monday night against the Los Angeles Chargers on Nov. 16. Tyler Huntley is also on injured reserve with a toe injury and is expected to miss the rest of the season. Undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano started Thursday's 33-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. That game was Baltimore's fourth straight defeat. The Ravens have been held under 14 points in four straight games, a team record. They have lost by 20 or more points in three consecutive games for the first time in the franchise's 31-year history.