Quarterback Lamar Jackson returned to the practice field Friday and pronounced himself ready to play on Sunday when the Baltimore Ravens face the Denver Broncos in a matchup between 5-3 teams.
“That wasn’t in doubt,” Jackson said following practice. “Just resting my body. It’s a long season. That’s all.”
Jackson didn’t practice Wednesday or Thursday and was listed on the injury report with knee and back issues. Ravens coach John Harbaugh downplayed concerns about Jackson’s health Wednesday, saying the two-time MVP was just getting a “rest” day.
The Ravens play two games in five days with a matchup against the Broncos, who have one of the best and most aggressive defenses in football, followed by a game Thursday night against the division rival Cincinnati Bengals.
“He’ll be ready,” Harbaugh said after Friday’s practice. “I’m not worried about it. He studied all week. He was involved in all of the preparation stuff. He knows the game plan, he knows the opponent. He’ll be ready to go.”
Free, daily NFL updates direct to your inbox.
Free, daily NFL updates direct to your inbox.
Sign Up
Harbaugh said Jackson had a good practice. During the portion of the workout open to the media, Jackson moved around freely.
The Ravens are coming off a 29-24 loss to the Cleveland Browns. Jackson looked to be in some discomfort in the locker room after the game, prompting a few teammates to approach the veteran quarterback and ask if he was OK.
Jackson is one of the midseason front-runners for another MVP award. He’s seventh in the league in passing yards (2,099) and second to Baker Mayfield in passing touchdowns (17). He’s also 15th in rushing yards (501).
The Ravens’ bye week won’t come until Week 14, and Harbaugh acknowledged that the team could hold Jackson out of some practices going forward to make sure he’s fresh for games.
Required reading
• Ravens still on the prowl as trade deadline nears, but who out there makes sense?
• Ravens’ acquisition of WR Diontae Johnson spurs 2 reactions: Why not, and what’s next?
(Photo: Jason Miller / Getty Images)
