Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson could return before the end of the 2026 NFL season as he recovers from a broken and dislocated right thumb suffered in Week 8 against the Buffalo Bills.
Head coach Jesse Minter said Friday that Jackson is recovering well after surgery, but his return timeline remains uncertain.
"Recovery timelines are challenging to predict, but injuries like this that require surgery typically take about 6-10 weeks to heal," Minter said in a statement released by the team.
"He is doing everything he can to get back, and we will let his progress guide the timing of his return."
When Could Lamar Jackson Return?
With nine weeks remaining in the regular season, Jackson could potentially return as early as Week 16 against the Cleveland Browns if his recovery progresses toward the shorter end of the projected timeline.
A recovery closer to 10 weeks would push his potential return into the postseason, provided Baltimore qualifies.
The Ravens enter Week 10 with a 4-5 record, sitting in last place in the AFC North. Baltimore acquired veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett last week after losing Jackson and backup Tyler Huntley, who suffered a season-ending turf toe injury.
Pro Football Doc Analysis: Could Baltimore Shut Down Jackson?
Pro Football Doc Dr. David Chao initially believed Jackson could return this season despite the severity of the injury.
However, Dr. Chao raised an important question about whether the Ravens would bring Jackson back if they were no longer in playoff contention.
Even if Jackson receives medical clearance, Baltimore could elect to protect its franchise quarterback rather than risk bringing him back for games without postseason implications.
