Lamar Jackson will not play in the upcoming matchup against the Bengals after being downgraded to "out" because of an ankle injury. The change in status comes after a recent return to practice as he continues his recovery, but medical clearance for game action was not granted.
Practice return but still sidelined
Team officials updated Jackson’s designation to “out” for the Bengals game after downgrading him from “questionable,” closing the door on his availability for Sunday; with Jackson sidelined, Tyler Huntley will once again be the Ravens' starting quarterback.
Immediate on-field consequences
With Jackson unavailable, quarterbacking duties will shift for the game: Tyler Huntley is set to start. Jackson’s absence has been felt in recent weeks — his team has dropped a game and eked out a narrow overtime win while he has been sidelined — underscoring the difference his presence has made on the field.
The timeline here is notable. Jackson’s return to practice suggested progress in his rehab, but the later status change shows that practice participation alone did not translate to clearance for game play. The outcome highlights the cautious approach being taken with the ankle before allowing him to resume full competition.
What Jackson’s availability status means for the matchup
Jackson being officially out alters the preparation and game plan for Sunday. Opposing defenses will now focus pregame planning and in-game adjustments against the starter who replaces him, rather than Jackson’s unique blend of mobility and playmaking. For Jackson, the priority remains recovery — the team moved him from questionable to out to reflect that he is not yet ready to return to live-game action.
As the league moves through the weekend, Jackson’s status will remain a key storyline for fans and analysts tracking his recovery. For now, the confirmed absence for the Bengals game is the definitive development: Jackson practiced this week but will continue to sit out as he rehabs the ankle injury.
