Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson suffered a back injury during the 28-24 loss to New England Patriots on Sunday night in Week 16 of the NFL. The injury occurred late in the second quarter when Jackson was kneed in the back while sliding on the ground after a three-yard run. Ele did not return to the game, being replaced by Tyler Huntley, and the Ravens now face uncertainty for the decisive clash against Green Bay Packers, scheduled for Saturday night, at Green Bay.
Jackson expressed optimism by saying his goal is to play in Week 17, but will undergo additional tests, including an MRI, on Monday to assess the severity. Coach John Harbaugh classified the injury as a bruise on the back, but admitted he did not know the extent of the problem, highlighting that the team will await test results in the coming days.
This injury worsened the situation for the Ravens, who fell to 7 wins and 8 losses, needing to win the remaining games and hope for Pittsburgh Steelers’s stumbles to maintain their chances of playoffs. The immediate impact was felt in the bookmakers, where Baltimore opened as a 1.5 point favorite against Packers, but became a 2.5 to 3.5 point underdog after the news of Jackson’s injury.
Injury details from the game against Patriots
Jackson completed 7 of 10 passes for 101 yards before leaving the field. Ele tried to return after receiving an injection for pain, but the pain persisted, preventing him from continuing in the game. The quarterback regretted not being able to finish alongside his teammates, describing the incident as frustrating.
Huntley took over and helped the Ravens build a 24-13 lead in the fourth quarter. However, the defense failed in the final moments, allowing Patriots to come back with 15 consecutive points.
Changes to betting lines
Bookmakers reacted quickly to Jackson’s departure. Inicialmente, Ravens were favorites by 1.5 points in the clash against Packers. Após the confirmation of the injury, the line reversed, placing Green Bay as favorite by up to 3.5 points in some operators.
This change reflects the dependence of Baltimore’s attack on Jackson, especially in its dual-threat style. Os Packers also deals with doubts about quarterback Jordan Love, who entered concussion protocol, which could balance the situation.
- Ravens opened as 1.5-point favorites;
- Post-injury, they became underdogs by 2.5 to 3.5 points;
- Total points estimated at around 46.5;
- Adjusted moneyline favoring Green Bay.
Season marred by injuries for Jackson
This is the latest in a series of physical problems faced by Jackson in 2025.
Despite the adversities, Jackson maintains solid numbers when on the field, highlighting his mobility and passing accuracy. The back injury comes at a critical moment, with Ravens needing consecutive victories to dream of the postseason.
Monday’s exams will define the recovery plan. Harbaugh emphasized that the decision will be based exclusively on medical results, without unnecessary precautions.
Ravens situation in the playoffs
Baltimore occupies second place in the AFC Norte, but with a negative record of 7-8. A defeat for Packers, combined with a victory for Steelers, would eliminate the team early.
The Ravens only control their own remaining matches. The game at Green Bay takes on an all-or-nothing nature, with low temperatures expected for Saturday night at Lambeau Field.
Uncertainties also on the Packers side
Green Bay is coming off an overtime loss to Chicago Bears and has Jordan Love in doubt due to concussion. The quarterback left the previous game after an impact to the head, entering NFL protocol.
Reserve Malik Willis also deals with a shoulder problem, adding complexity to Packers’s planning. Ambas teams face similar risks at the quarterback position for Week 17.
Post-game statements
Jackson highlighted the intense pain, but reinforced his intention to return quickly. Ele mentioned trying an analgesic injection, which did not have enough effect.
Harbaugh praised the effort of Huntley, who completed accurate passes and led touchdown drives. The technician avoided speculation about the severity, prioritizing exams.
Recent history between the teams
Ravens and Packers don’t face each other often, with the last matchup dating back to previous seasons. Baltimore seeks victory away from home to keep their hopes of qualifying alive.
The clash takes place at 8:20 pm Green Bay local time, on Saturday. The NFL schedules special games for the festive weekend, with national broadcast.
Preparation for the decisive duel
The Ravens will have a short week of preparation due to the game on Saturday. The immediate focus is on recovering Jackson and adjusting the game plan if he is unavailable.
Huntley has demonstrated the ability to command the attack in previous substitutions. Baltimore’s defense needs to correct flaws observed against Patriots to contain the Packers attack.
- Daily monitoring of the status of Jackson;
- Tactical adjustments for possible absence of the holder;
- Emphasis on races with Derrick Henry;
- Reinforcement in protection for the reserve quarterback.
Context of Week 17 in the NFL
Several decisive games mark the penultimate round. AFC Norte remains open, with Pittsburgh leading and Baltimore in pursuit.
Green Bay fights for a better position in the NFC Norte. The winner of the duel gains momentum in the final stretch of the regular season.