Baltimore Ravens star quarterback Lamar Jackson could still return before the end of the 2026 NFL season despite undergoing thumb surgery, but his chances of playing again may depend on whether newly acquired quarterback Jacoby Brissett can keep the team in playoff contention.
NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported Saturday via X, formerly known as Twitter, that Jackson's potential return remains a possibility following Baltimore's 33-10 Week 9 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday Night Football.
“Two-time NFL MVP Lamar Jackson’s chances for playing again this season depend on his recovery — and whether Jacoby Brissett can keep the Ravens alive long enough to make a potential late-season return worthwhile.”
Jackson's latest setback came shortly after he returned from a Grade 1 high ankle sprain sustained during Baltimore's Week 4 victory over the Tennessee Titans.
The 29-year-old suffered a thumb injury during the Ravens' 36-10 Week 8 loss, requiring surgery and prompting the organization to place him on injured reserve. The injury raised concerns that Jackson could miss the remainder of the regular season.
However, Pelissero's latest report suggests Baltimore has not completely ruled out a return, provided Jackson recovers sufficiently and the Ravens remain competitive in the AFC playoff race.
Jacoby Brissett faces crucial stretch with Ravens amid Lamar Jackson injury
Baltimore made a significant move earlier this week to address its quarterback situation, acquiring veteran Jacoby Brissett from the Arizona Cardinals ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
The Ravens sent Arizona a 2027 fifth-round draft pick in exchange for Brissett, a 2027 fourth-round selection and a 2028 seventh-round pick. The transaction became official Friday, giving Baltimore an experienced option under center during Jackson's absence.
Brissett now faces the challenge of keeping the Ravens competitive while their franchise quarterback continues recovering from surgery.
The veteran's performance over the coming weeks could ultimately determine whether Baltimore remains in position to make a playoff push and potentially welcome Jackson back late in the season.
With Jackson on injured reserve, the Ravens must navigate a difficult stretch without their two-time MVP. His absence places additional pressure on Baltimore's offense to establish consistency and avoid falling further behind in the AFC standings.
Baltimore will have additional time to prepare for its next matchup following Thursday's loss to Jacksonville.
The Ravens will return to action against the winless Los Angeles Chargers (0-7) on Monday, Nov. 16, at 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN.
For Baltimore, the upcoming matchup represents an opportunity to turn its season around while keeping Jackson's potential return meaningful.