The Baltimore Ravens' season is on the line this Saturday night in a crucial NFL Week 17 showdown against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Their playoff aspirations are hanging by a thread, and the situation has become significantly more dire with the likely absence of their star quarterback, Lamar Jackson, who is listed as doubtful due to a painful back injury.
Jackson's Painful Injury and Harbaugh's Assessment
The focal point of concern is Lamar Jackson's status. The quarterback suffered a deep-tissue contusion, essentially a severe bruise, during the Ravens' Week 16 loss to the New England Patriots. The injury forced him to exit that game early and has prevented him from practicing all week, casting serious doubt on his availability for this must-win contest.
Head coach John Harbaugh did not mince words when describing the severity of Jackson's condition. "It’s legitimate and very painful," Harbaugh stated. He explained that the muscles around the injury lock up, severely restricting movement. "He has to be able to be an athlete and be able to move. To be an athlete, you have to be able to move around and do your thing. So that’s what you’re working back toward with all the treatment and everything," he added.
While praising Jackson as "one of the ultimate competitors," Harbaugh acknowledged the reality of the situation. Despite Jackson's fierce desire to play, his inability to practice makes his participation on Saturday night highly unlikely.
A Frustrating Season of Setbacks
This latest back issue caps a frustrating and injury-plagued 2025 campaign for the two-time MVP. Jackson has already missed over a month earlier in the season due to a hamstring injury suffered in Week 4. His year has been a constant battle with various ailments, including knee, ankle, and toe problems, and even an illness that cost him practice time.
The physical toll is evident in his statistics. This season, Jackson has completed 63.7% of his passes for 2,311 yards, with 18 touchdowns and six interceptions. His dynamic rushing ability has also been curtailed, resulting in a modest 340 rushing yards so far.
Playoff Implications and the Huntley Factor
With Jackson expected to sit out, backup quarterback Tyler Huntley is likely to step into the starting role. Huntley, who took over after Jackson's exit against the Patriots, has prior experience filling in for Jackson and is known for his solid mobility and command of the offense.
The stakes for the Ravens (7-8) could not be higher. A loss to the Packers on Saturday night would eliminate them from postseason contention. A victory would keep their slim hopes alive, requiring them to win their final two games and receive help from other results. This could potentially set up a dramatic winner-take-all AFC North clash in Week 18.
On the other side, the Green Bay Packers have already secured their playoff berth. They will be looking to solidify their seeding for the postseason, with Malik Willis expected to start at quarterback for them in this matchup.
