Two-time MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson was a full participant in practice on Friday for the first time since Sept. 26, but is listed as questionable for the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday.
Head coach John Harbaugh and the Baltimore staff will likely wait at least 24 hours to gauge how Jackson’s injured right hamstring responds before confirming the expected: Jackson is back as the starter for the Ravens (1-5), who are in desperate need of a victory at home against the Bears.
“I just think we’re going to talk about it as we go and figure out what we got to do to try to win the game,” Harbaugh said. “I mean, that’s really what we’re going to try to do. What’s our best opportunity to win the football game on Sunday? Where does everybody stand? Including No. 8 (Jackson).”
The Ravens signed quarterback Tyler Huntley to the 53-man roster on Friday. Baltimore said Huntley would start against the Bears if Jackson is unable to play, or be the No. 2 quarterback if Jackson does play. Huntley was previously on the practice squad.
“I always prepare to start,” Huntley said Friday. “I treat it like every week; I’m studying and drawing out the plays, watching film and everything I need to do to be prepared, like I do every week.”
Jackson is one of a cadre of anticipated reinforcements returning after missing time due to injury. He was hurt in Baltimore’s 37-20 loss at Kansas City on Sept. 28.
Inside linebacker Roquan Smith (hamstring), left tackle Ronnie Stanley (ankle), fullback Patrick Ricard (calf) and cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (hamstring) all are expected to play against the Bears. Stanley didn’t practice Friday, but Harbaugh noted the veteran received a planned rest day and is good to go.
Without Jackson, the Ravens spun their tires with backup Cooper Rush operating the offense. They managed 13 total points, zero touchdown passes and six turnovers, prompting Huntley to enter the game in Rush’s place against the Rams two weeks ago.
Baltimore was on a bye last week.
Huntley took reps with the starting offense on Wednesday and Thursday while Jackson was listed as limited.
Huntley has a 3-6 record as a fill-in starter for Baltimore.
–Field Level Media
