Lamar Jackson Eyes Return After Surgery as Baltimore Trades for Brissett

Jackson targets late season return

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has informed his teammates that he plans to return later this season after undergoing surgery for a fractured and dislocated right thumb. The injury occurred on Baltimore's very first offensive snap during last Sunday's loss to the Buffalo Bills. Jackson was placed on injured reserve, but he has not been ruled out for the remainder of the year.

Jackson urged his teammates to 'just stay alive' while he works his way back. Players who spoke with the quarterback said his words were energizing and exciting, especially after many in the locker room feared his season was completely over.

Recovery from this specific thumb surgery typically takes six to nine weeks. If his rehabilitation goes well, Jackson believes he can return by early January 2026. The quarterback had already missed three games earlier this season because of a high ankle sprain.

Brissett arrives during team slump

Baltimore has four wins and five losses on the season and is trying to halt a severe offensive slump. The Ravens suffered a 33-10 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday, which was their fourth consecutive defeat. Baltimore has been held under 14 points in four straight games, setting a new franchise record for offensive futility.

The team has also lost three straight games by 20 or more points for the first time in its 31 year history. The injury situation at quarterback was made worse by backup Tyler Huntley going on injured reserve with a toe injury, which is expected to keep him out for the rest of the season. Undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano started Thursday's game against Jacksonville.

To address the void, Baltimore finalized a trade on Friday to acquire Jacoby Brissett. Brissett is expected to start on Monday night, Nov. 16, against the Los Angeles Chargers. Baltimore has a bye coming up in Week 13. Late in the season, the Ravens play Cleveland on Dec. 27 in Week 16, followed four days later by a Thursday night game in Cincinnati, and a finale against Pittsburgh in Week 18.

What it means for the next game

Los Angeles Chargers at Baltimore Ravens (NFL, Tue, 17 Nov): Baltimore Ravens win 48%, Los Angeles Chargers win 52%; projected score Baltimore Ravens 20, Los Angeles Chargers 18. Our safest pick: Over 30.5 points.