Lamar Jackson Injured: Ravens' Season in Jeopardy!

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Lamar Jackson’s Injury Leaves Ravens Facing Difficult Decisions

The anticipated matchup between Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen ended almost immediately when Jackson’s return lasted only one snap. The Ravens placed him on injured reserve during the game, meaning he will miss at least four games and could potentially be out for the remainder of the season.

Jackson’s latest setback adds to ongoing concerns about his ability to stay healthy for a full season. Whether the injuries stem from his playing style, the offensive line or other factors, Baltimore continues to face the same problem: The team has centered its plans around a quarterback who has repeatedly been unavailable.

The situation became even worse when Tyler Huntley suffered turf toe. Baltimore’s next quarterback also took a big hit, raising the possibility that emergency quarterback Justice Hill might have been forced into action.

At 4-4 and last in the AFC North, the Ravens are not mathematically out of contention, but their outlook is bleak. The team has pursued a Super Bowl-or-bust approach with Jackson, yet it needs more talent around him both to help keep him healthy and to remain competitive when he is sidelined.

That could push Baltimore toward retooling its roster and listening to trade offers for Derrick Henry. With one year and roughly $16 million left on his contract, the Ravens must consider whether they want to carry that cap hit as he continues to age.

Several teams are reportedly pursuing Jonathan Taylor, including Seattle, Minnesota and New England. The teams that miss out could call Baltimore about Henry. If Seattle failed to acquire Taylor and offered a second-round pick for Henry, for example, the Ravens might have reason to listen as they look to add more pieces.

Henry remains a high-level player, but he is nearing the end of his career. Mark Andrews is not getting younger, Jackson continues to battle injuries, and Roquan Smith is also getting older. With Pittsburgh rolling and Baltimore’s injury problems mounting, the Ravens should consider taking calls for Henry as part of a broader retooling effort.