The Baltimore Ravens confirmed on Friday that quarterback Lamar Jackson has undergone surgery to repair a dislocated and broken right thumb. A source familiar with the situation told ESPN that the procedure has been completed. The team stated that the typical recovery timeline for such an injury ranges from six to ten weeks.
Head coach Jesse Minter addressed Jackson's status in a statement released by the organization. Minter noted that predicting exact recovery timelines can be difficult. He emphasized that Jackson is working diligently to return to the field. The coach said the team will allow Jackson's physical progress to determine the timing of his comeback. Minter added that the Ravens remain committed to playing their best football during the second half of the season.
With nine weeks remaining in the regular season, the earliest Jackson could return would be Week 16 against the Cleveland Browns. If his recovery requires the full ten weeks, a return would likely occur during the postseason. The timing of his return will be a critical factor for a team currently battling to secure a playoff berth.
The Ravens, who are currently 4-5, have lost four consecutive games. They are currently one game behind the team holding the final playoff spot in the American Football Conference. According to ESPN Analytics, Baltimore's chances of making the postseason are projected at 3.7 percent.
To support their playoff hopes, the Ravens acquired quarterback Jacoby Brissett via trade. Brissett is expected to start Monday night's game in Baltimore against the Los Angeles Chargers, a team that is currently winless. The move aims to keep the team competitive while Jackson recovers.
Jackson sustained the thumb injury on the first play of a 36-10 loss to the Buffalo Bills on November 1. During a pass attempt, his right hand struck the arm of Bills outside linebacker Greg Rousseau, causing the dislocation and fracture.
This is the second significant injury Jackson has suffered this season. He previously missed three games due to a high ankle sprain. As a result, he has played only 14 full quarters this year.
The Ravens have historically struggled when Jackson is not the starting quarterback. Since 2019, Baltimore has a record of 82-38 with Jackson at the helm, including playoffs. During that span, the team averages 27.6 points per game. Without Jackson as the starter, the Ravens are 7-15, including the postseason, and average 17.3 points per game.
