Lamar Jackson (ankle) expected to return for Week 8 vs. Bills

Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter indicated that quarterback Lamar Jackson will return from an ankle injury for the team's Week 8 matchup. Speaking at a press conference on Friday afternoon, Minter stated, according to Fox Sports, "We do think we'll have Lamar next week." The game against the Buffalo Bills is scheduled for Sunday at 1:00 PM ET.

Jackson has missed the last three weeks after suffering a high ankle sprain in Week 4 against the Tennessee Titans. While the timeline was initially uncertain, Minter noted on Monday that the decision rests on Jackson's health status. "Look, if he's able to play, [is] healthy enough to play and play the way that obviously we feel like he needs to play, then he will play," coach Jesse Minter said Monday, according to ESPN.

Minter expressed optimism about Jackson's recent preparation, noting he has been active in practice. "I'm excited about that. He's had a really good week of practice. It'll probably end up showing that he was a full participant in practice this week," Minter added on Friday.

Fantasy impact

Lamar Jackson's return restores the Ravens' offense to its full potential after a three-game absence. In his first four games, Jackson threw for 967 yards and six touchdowns while rushing for 144 yards and a score. The offense ranks fourth in the NFL in rushing yards at 141.7 per game with Derrick Henry leading the way. Without Jackson, the team went 1-2 and recently lost two consecutive AFC North games.

Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley will see his role decrease significantly if Jackson is cleared to start. The Ravens currently sit at 4-3 and in last place in the division, creating a high sense of urgency for the offense to perform.

What to do

Start Lamar Jackson as a top-tier fantasy quarterback this week.

Monitor the final injury report on Saturday to confirm his full participation status before locking in lineups. If Jackson is ruled out, pivot to Tyler Huntley or another streaming option immediately.