BALTIMORE, Maryland — Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is expected to miss between six and 10 weeks as he recovers from surgery on a fractured and dislocated right thumb, head coach Jesse Minter has indicated, creating another major challenge for a team trying to keep its 2026 season on track.
The latest recovery estimate places Jackson’s possible return somewhere between late December and the end of the regular season, depending on how quickly the injury heals and how he responds during rehabilitation. The timeline does not guarantee a specific comeback date, and his availability will depend on medical clearance and his ability to grip and throw the football effectively.
Jackson sustained the injury on Baltimore’s opening offensive play against the Buffalo Bills on November 1. His right hand collided with Bills pass rusher Gregory Rousseau as he attempted a pass. The two-time NFL Most Valuable Player immediately left the field and later returned to the sideline with his thumb immobilised.
Minter initially confirmed after the 36–10 defeat that Jackson would require surgery and be placed on injured reserve. The coach described the situation as a difficult setback, particularly after Jackson had just returned from a three-game absence caused by an ankle injury. The Ravens’ official report documented the injury and the decision to place the quarterback on injured reserve.
Jackson’s thumb injury has been described in reports as both fractured and dislocated. NFL Network previously reported a recovery window of six to nine weeks, while the latest estimate attributed to Minter extends the possible absence to as long as 10 weeks. NFL Network’s earlier injury update said Jackson hoped to return during the season rather than accept that his campaign was over.
The quarterback’s determination to return has reportedly remained strong. According to reporting cited by the Ravens’ official website, Jackson told teammates he intended to make it back this season and urged them to keep the team alive while he recovered.
Ravens Face Critical Stretch Without Their Star Quarterback
Baltimore’s immediate priority is finding consistency at quarterback while Jackson remains unavailable. The team acquired veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett from the Arizona Cardinals to strengthen its options after backup Tyler Huntley also suffered a significant toe injury. Huntley’s injury was reported as season-ending, leaving Baltimore with an urgent need for experience and stability at the position.
Brissett’s arrival gives Minter and the offensive coaching staff a more experienced option as the Ravens attempt to stop a four-game losing streak. Baltimore entered the latest stretch at 4–5, a difficult position for a team that began the season with ambitions of competing for the AFC North title.
The Reuters report on Brissett’s acquisition detailed Baltimore’s quarterback difficulties and the circumstances that prompted the trade. The veteran is expected to help the offence remain competitive while Jackson works toward recovery.
What The Six-To-10-Week Timeline Means
A six-week recovery would give Jackson a possibility of returning before the regular season ends, provided Baltimore remains in contention and he receives medical clearance. A recovery closer to 10 weeks, however, could leave the Ravens with very little time to reintegrate him before the postseason, assuming the team qualifies.
For a quarterback whose game combines passing accuracy with explosive running ability, the recovery process will involve more than simply waiting for the bone to heal. Jackson must regain sufficient thumb strength, mobility and grip to handle the ball securely, deliver accurate passes and protect himself during contact. The team will need to avoid rushing his return at the expense of his long-term health.
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Jackson’s absence puts the Ravens’ season at a decisive point. His influence extends beyond his passing numbers: his mobility changes defensive formations, creates opportunities for running backs and receivers, and gives Baltimore an additional dimension that is difficult to reproduce with a replacement quarterback.
Brissett offers experience and a steady presence, but the Ravens will have to adjust their offensive approach to suit his strengths rather than attempt to replicate Jackson’s style. Better protection, a reliable running game and disciplined defensive performances will be essential if Baltimore hopes to remain in the playoff conversation.
The most encouraging development for Ravens supporters is that Jackson has not given up on returning this season. However, the six-to-10-week estimate makes the team’s next run of games especially important. Baltimore must remain competitive long enough to make his eventual return meaningful, while allowing its franchise quarterback the time needed to recover properly.
Sources: New York Post — Lamar Jackson’s injury timeline revealed; Baltimore Ravens — Jackson set for surgery and injured reserve; NFL.com — Initial recovery outlook; Reuters — Ravens acquire Jacoby Brissett.