Lamar Jackson Injury Sparks Ravens Quarterback Search

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Lamar Jackson’s Injury Raises Questions for Baltimore as Buffalo’s Defense Remains a Concern

Lamar Jackson suffered an apparent right-hand injury on an early play against the Buffalo Bills. He was hurt during his follow-through and was seen holding his throwing hand and thumb before appearing in a cast at the end of the game. The injury did not look promising for Baltimore.

If Tyler Huntley were healthy, the Ravens could turn to him based on his previous experience as their backup quarterback. However, Huntley is dealing with a turf toe injury, leaving Baltimore with an uncertain situation. Joe Fagnano, an undrafted rookie who played at Maine and UConn, was in line to start Thursday night.

If general manager Eric DeCosta believes the Ravens can make a playoff run, Baltimore could pursue a veteran quarterback near the trade deadline. Jacoby Brissett could be a lower-cost option after the Arizona Cardinals benched him, while Kirk Cousins would represent a more ambitious move. Acquiring Cousins appears less likely because the Raiders are 4-4 and remain in the playoff race, but Baltimore could consider overpaying if it believes he can lead a deep postseason run.

The more likely move would be adding a less expensive veteran such as Brissett to hold the position until Huntley returns or to help the Ravens finish the season.

Buffalo defeated Baltimore 36-10, but the performance did not eliminate questions about the Bills’ defense. The unit has improved against the run, and the defensive line features massive players in Greg Rousseau and Dion Walker. However, the defense has not been consistent in coverage.

The Bills may once again go as far as Josh Allen can carry them. Although Buffalo eventually won comfortably, the game remained close for a while despite Baltimore relying on third-string quarterback Joe Fagnano for most of the contest.

There are still concerns about how Buffalo’s defense will perform against stronger offenses. The Bills appear capable of winning the AFC, but their defense could become their weakness. Entering Week 9, the unit has not yet shown the level of improvement expected at this point in the season.