CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns won't have to worry about Lamar Jackson on Sunday. The Baltimore Ravens officially ruled out their star quarterback Friday afternoon, leaving Tyler Huntley to make his second consecutive start when the AFC North rivals meet in Cleveland.
Jackson has been sidelined since suffering an ankle injury during Baltimore's October 4 victory over Tennessee. The two-time NFL MVP missed every practice this week, and head coach Jesse Minter confirmed Friday that he will not play against the Browns.
His absence gives Cleveland one less problem to worry about, although Huntley has shown that he can win games in Jackson's place.
The veteran backup completed 24 of 32 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns in Baltimore's 30-23 overtime victory over Atlanta last Sunday. Huntley also rushed for 20 yards, including the game-winning one-yard touchdown in overtime, helping the Ravens improve to 4-1.
There is also an interesting connection between Huntley and Cleveland head coach Todd Monken, who spent the previous three seasons as Baltimore's offensive coordinator. Monken knows the Ravens' personnel and offensive tendencies well, although Baltimore's system has changed since his departure.
Huntley also has some familiarity with the Browns organization. He has had two brief stints with Cleveland but never appeared in a regular-season game for the team.
The Browns received some encouraging injury news of their own Friday. Defensive tackle Mason Graham, linebacker Carson Schwesinger, and running back Quinshon Judkins all returned to practice after dealing with injuries. Their availability for Sunday remains uncertain.
Sunday's game presents an opportunity for the Browns to get back on track and improve their position in the AFC North. With Jackson sidelined, Cleveland has one fewer obstacle standing in its way.
Now the Browns need to take advantage of it.
