CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns could catch a huge break Sunday when they host the Baltimore Ravens. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson remains sidelined with an ankle injury, and his availability for the AFC North showdown is increasingly uncertain.
Jackson missed practice Wednesday and Thursday as he continued recovering from an injury sustained during Baltimore's October 4 victory over Tennessee. The two-time NFL MVP has not practiced since the injury, leaving the Ravens preparing for the possibility of playing without their starting quarterback for a second consecutive week.
Baltimore head coach Jesse Minter has described Jackson's status as day-to-day, emphasizing that the quarterback is working toward a return. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported earlier this week that Jackson had a realistic chance of playing Sunday, although his continued absence from practice raises questions about whether he will be ready.
If Jackson cannot play, Tyler Huntley would make his second consecutive start. Huntley guided Baltimore to a 30-23 comeback victory over Atlanta last Sunday, helping the Ravens improve to 4-1 and maintain their position atop the AFC North.
The quarterback situation is particularly significant for Cleveland, which enters Sunday's game at 3-2 following a disappointing 17-12 loss to the New York Jets. A victory would pull the Browns even with Baltimore in the division standings, while a loss would leave Cleveland two games behind its rival.
Even without Jackson, the Ravens present a difficult challenge. Running back Derrick Henry remains a major concern for the Browns' defense, and Huntley's mobility gives Baltimore another option in the running game.
Baltimore is also dealing with injuries elsewhere on its roster. Wide receiver Rashod Bateman and several defensive contributors have appeared on the injury report, complicating the team's preparations for an important divisional matchup.
Cleveland has injury concerns of its own, including running back Quinshon Judkins and linebacker Carson Schwesinger, both of whom suffered ankle injuries against the Jets.
For the Browns, Jackson's potential absence could change the nature of Sunday's matchup, but it does not eliminate the need for a stronger offensive performance. Cleveland managed only 12 points against New York, wasting another opportunity to turn a competitive defensive effort into a victory.
Whether Jackson returns or Huntley gets another start, Sunday's game offers Cleveland an opportunity to make an early statement in the AFC North race. The Ravens' final injury report should provide greater clarity on the quarterback situation before kickoff.
