He knows there’s a problem, but Baltimore Ravens franchise quarterback Lamar Jackson can still take being sacked 23 times already this season with good humor. At least for now, but the two-time NFL MVP revealed a conversation is coming between himself and his offensive line. Jackson spoke with reporters on Thursday, November 20, one day after missing practice again with what turned out to be an ankle injury. The Ravens were being cautious with their star asset, but Jackson was upbeat after participating in the latest session, even when the issue of crumbling protection was mentioned. As ESPN’s Jamison Hensley noted, Jackson said, “I’m going to talk to my offensive line about that.” Although Hensley was quick to point out Jackson uttered these words “with a smile,” the growing numbers of hits he’s taking is a problem the Ravens can’t ignore. Especially in the context of the team still needing to carefully manage his health. Lamar Jackson Has a Problem Getting hit and staying under siege in the pocket is an uncomfortable, but familiar reality for Jackson this season. He was sacked five times against the Cleveland Browns in Week 11, with four of those QB takedowns by star defensive end Myles Garrett. Those aren’t the numbers head coach John Harbaugh wants to see when Jackson is struggling to overcome nagging injuries. Making it all the way back from hamstring, knee and ankle problems is proving a challenge, particularly when it comes to dealing with the midweek practice schedule. Jackson’s health is becoming a weekly hot topic. Fortunately, he admitted he’s “good” ahead of facing the New York Jets in Week 12, per Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic, yet the latter noted Jackson also “said given he’s been banged up, this could be his new normal this season with taking a day off from practice but noted ‘We’ll have to see what coach feels about it.’” Keeping Jackson out of the fray during the week might be necessary fitness management by the Ravens, but there could be drawbacks. Those risks would include Jackson not being in peak playing condition on gamedays, or over-exerting himself after a light pre-game workload. Those theories will be put to the test when the Jets visit M&T Bank Stadium on November 23. They still boast a capable defensive front, but Jackson will be able to count on an All-Pro presence looking after his blindside. Ravens Get Good News Along Struggling Offensive Line Getting Jackson fully healthy and keeping him upright are the priorities for the Ravens, but the latter won’t happen without Ronnie Stanley at 100 percent. The 31-year-old was a full participant on Thursday, after missing practice a day earlier due to illness, according to the Ravens’ latest injury report. Stanley has been far from his best this season, but he can still be one of the more accomplished left tackles in the NFL. His ability to handle Jets edge-rushers Jermaine Johnson II and Will McDonald IV will be key to how Jackson performs. Another underrated boost to Jackson’s chances to thrive is the inclusion of running back Justice Hill as a full participant after a toe injury. Hill still does most of his work in third-down situations, where the useful veteran remains an excellent blocker.
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