Ravens head coach John Harbaugh expressed optimism that two-time MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson will be ready to play against the Chicago Bears this Sunday, despite Jackson missing practice on Monday due to a hamstring injury sustained in the Ravens’ loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on September 28. Following this injury, the Ravens struggled in subsequent weeks, relying on backup quarterbacks Cooper Rush and Tyler Huntley, who collectively managed a disappointing 42.4 passer rating in losses to the Texans and Rams.
The Ravens, currently sitting at 1-5 and coming off a bye week, have Harbaugh maintaining his belief in Jackson’s return, particularly after he previously expressed hope for Jackson and linebacker Roquan Smith to be back in time for the Bears matchup. Smith participated in Monday’s practice, which could signal a positive trend for the Ravens.
In four games this season before his injury, Jackson showcased impressive statistics, completing 71.6% of his passes, averaging 217.3 yards per game, and throwing 10 touchdown passes against just one interception, all contributing to a stellar 130.5 passer rating. His dual-threat capabilities also included an average of 41.5 rushing yards per game. Notably, Jackson has yet to face the Bears in his NFL career, having missed the previous encounter due to illness in 2021, where Huntley stepped in and led the Ravens to victory.
On the Bears’ side, head coach Ben Johnson noted that he was only starting to scout the Ravens after reviewing his team’s recent 26-14 win over the Saints. However, there were concerns regarding injuries affecting key players. Tight end Cole Kmet left the game against the Saints due to a back issue, while cornerback Tyrique Stevenson exited with a shoulder injury. Initial assessments suggest neither injury is severe enough to require time on injured reserve, but their availability for Wednesday’s practice and the upcoming game remains uncertain.
Kmet, who recorded one catch for 16 yards against the Saints, has been a reliable presence, not having missed a game in six seasons. Stevenson, recognized as the Bears’ top outside corner with Jaylon Johnson on IR, stepped up in recent weeks, contributing positively after a challenging start to the season.
The Bears’ recent victory over the Saints ended an eight-game losing streak against them, which included playoff encounters, since their last win in 2008. Their next challenge will be against the Philadelphia Eagles, who they have not defeated since 2011.
There are also concerns about left tackle Theo Benedet’s performance in the game against the Saints, as he struggled with penalties and matchups. Johnson expressed dissatisfaction with Benedet’s play, indicating improvements are necessary. Additionally, Johnson was hopeful about the upcoming activation of defensive end Austin Booker, who has missed time due to a knee injury. Meanwhile, former Bears offensive lineman Ja’Tyre Carter had a visit with the Carolina Panthers after spending time out of the league.
The anticipation for the matchup between the Ravens and Bears is high, particularly for fans eager to see how Jackson and Smith will impact the game if they take the field on Sunday.