The Atlanta Falcons have a massive chance to steal a win on Sunday Night Football because the Baltimore Ravens might be without their star quarterback. Lamar Jackson, the two-time league MVP, is unlikely to play against the Falcons after suffering an ankle sprain in Week 4. This injury happened when his ankle got rolled up while he was sacked near the end of the first half against the Tennessee Titans. He stayed in uniform for the second half but never returned to the field before the Ravens won 24-18.
A Tough Break for Baltimore
Reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport indicate that Jackson has only an “outside chance” to be available for the game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. The testing confirmed an ankle sprain, but the recovery timeline remains unclear. Rapoport noted that “Jackson could end up missing multiple games based on how rehab goes, but the injury is not considered long-term or surgical.” Ravens head coach Jesse Minter admitted he does not have the full picture yet. Minter told the media, “I don’t know the chances yet. We’re still gathering a lot of information and the imaging and things like that.” He added that he does not think it will be a “crazy long-term” issue, but the team must wait to see what happens.
Huntley Steps Into the Spotlight
If Jackson cannot go, backup Tyler Huntley will take the reins for the Ravens. Huntley has a 5-6 record as a starter when filling in for Baltimore. He helped Baltimore preserve the lead for the second half against Tennessee while Jackson rested. The Ravens are currently tied for the top spot in the AFC North and are chasing their first 4-1 start since 2021. Coach Minter expressed faith in the backup, stating, “He has played well. The guys believe in him, and I think that is as important as anything. The guys have a lot of confidence in him to be able to go out there and do it.” Huntley is mobile enough to run similar plays, though he lacks the same dynamic explosiveness as Jackson.
Falcons Ready to Pounce
The Falcons have already secured back-to-back massive wins on national television against Green Bay and New Orleans. They now face a Ravens team that could be missing its most dangerous weapon. Even if Jackson plays, an ankle injury limits the mobility that makes him a nightmare to defend. The Falcons’ defense has been playing at a high level and should exploit any hesitation from a backup quarterback. Baltimore needs to protect their long-term goals, but the Falcons only care about winning this specific game. With Jackson’s status in doubt, Atlanta has the upper hand heading into Sunday night.
