Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is targeting a return for the 2026 NFL season, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Lamar Jackson’s Message to the Team
Rapoport reported that Jackson addressed his teammates with an energizing and exciting message. The central theme of his address was to simply stay alive until he is healthy enough to rejoin the team on the field.
The Ravens currently sit at the bottom of the AFC North with a 4-5 record following a 33-10 defeat against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday. The team struggled significantly in the absence of both Jackson and backup Tyler Huntley, as third-string quarterback Joe Fagnano completed passes for 60 yards and threw two interceptions on 18 attempts.
Injury Struggles and Roster Moves
Jackson has endured another season heavily disrupted by injuries. After appearing in the first three games of the year, he was sidelined for three matchups due to a high ankle sprain before returning on November 1 against the Buffalo Bills. His comeback was short-lived, as he sustained a thumb injury during the team’s opening offensive drive.
The injury necessitated surgery, leading the two-time MVP to be placed on the injured reserve list immediately following the game. Huntley initially stepped in to replace Jackson, but he also had to leave action shortly after due to a turf toe injury.
Following the loss to the Jaguars, Baltimore traded for Jacoby Brissett from the Arizona Cardinals. The addition of Brissett provides a major upgrade over Fagnano, which could help the team remain competitive in the coming weeks.
Jackson’s refusal to write off the remainder of the season demonstrates a resilient mindset that is expected to resonate throughout the entire locker room.
