Lamar Jackson to miss four games with thumb injury
The two-time MVP requires surgery after an early hit, forcing the Ravens to turn to an undrafted rookie in a 36-10 loss to Buffalo.
By Christopher Singh ·
Lamar Jackson will spend at least four games on injured reserve following a thumb injury that occurred during the first offensive play of Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills.
ESPN reports that the Baltimore Ravens quarterback is expected to undergo surgery on his right thumb. Head coach Jesse Minter confirmed the move after the team suffered a 36-10 defeat on the road.
The injury happened when Bills linebacker Greg Rousseau struck Jackson's throwing hand while attempting to deflect a pass. Jackson examined his hand immediately before heading to the sideline, and he later walked into the tunnel with his right hand wrapped. He returned to the sideline in the third quarter wearing a brace, but he did not re-enter the game.
The setback complicates an already strained depth chart. Jackson had just returned from missing three consecutive games with a high ankle sprain. During the second quarter, backup Tyler Huntley suffered a right toe injury and was ruled out in the third quarter after completing two of four passes for zero yards.
With both veterans sidelined, the Ravens started Joe Fagnano, an undrafted rookie from UConn. In his regular-season debut, Fagnano completed 10 of 21 passes for 91 yards and threw one interception.
The Ravens' offense struggled throughout the contest. The loss extends their struggles during Jackson's recent absences. The team now faces a four-game minimum gap before Jackson can return to the roster.
