Lamar Jackson to return for Ravens against Bills

Lamar Jackson is set to return to the field for the Baltimore Ravens this week as they face the Buffalo Bills. Ravens head coach Jesse Minter confirmed Jackson's return to reporters on Friday. Jackson had been sidelined for three games due to a high ankle sprain.

Jackson was a full participant in practice on Wednesday and Thursday, indicating his readiness to play. He expressed that while there is some residual pain in his ankle and planting his foot remains difficult, it should not impede his mobility during the game. "I feel like I’m no longer a statue," Jackson told reporters. "I’m able to move around a little better. I’m going to give it a shot."

The Ravens struggled in Jackson's absence, posting a 1-2 record. Their recent losses include two consecutive defeats against divisional rivals, the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals. In the first four games of the season, Jackson recorded a 70.8 completion percentage, throwing for 967 yards, six touchdowns, and one interception. He also contributed 144 rushing yards and a touchdown.

During Jackson's absence, Tyler Huntley stepped in as the starting quarterback. Huntley completed 69.8 percent of his passes for 727 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception. He also added 76 rushing yards and a touchdown.

Jackson's return is anticipated to bolster the Ravens' offense, which faltered in the second half of their recent game against the Bengals. Baltimore held a 13-0 lead at halftime but was outscored 35-0 in the second half, marking the most points allowed by the team in a second half since 1997.

The Ravens will face a Buffalo Bills defense that has been struggling, allowing an average of 28.5 points per game this season, the third-highest mark in the league. The Bills have conceded at least 30 points in five of their last six contests.