Lamar Jackson returns to Ravens lineup after three-game absence

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson will start on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills after missing the last three games with a high left ankle sprain. He returned to full practice on Wednesday, marking the first time he participated in all three weekly sessions since sustaining the injury on October 4.

The injury occurred during the second quarter of a win over the Tennessee Titans. Since then, the Ravens have gone 1-2. The offense has struggled to sustain drives, failing to score a single point in the second half of its two most recent contests.

Jackson described the pain as bearable during a media session on Friday. He noted that his ankle feels better than it did the previous week, though he declined to assign a specific percentage to his recovery. His left ankle was taped during all practices, and he did not run at full speed.

"I feel like I'm no longer a statue," Jackson said after Friday's practice. "I'm able to move around a little better. I can give it a shot."

Ravens head coach Jesse Minter acknowledged that rust could be a factor but expressed confidence in Jackson's preparation. "I think he'll look like Lamar Jackson," Minter said. "I think now he'll be in a position to be able to play Lamar Jackson football."

The team's statistical performance declined without Jackson. Baltimore averaged 29 points per game in his four starts this season. That average dropped to 17.7 points during the three games started by backup quarterback Tyler Huntley. Left tackle Ronnie Stanley said the group is eager for Jackson's return. "It's going to be a big boost," Stanley said. "Lamar is the best player in the NFL."

The Ravens, who are 4-3, are in last place in the AFC North. They face the Buffalo Bills, who are 5-1, in a game hosted by Buffalo. The Bills have defeated Baltimore in the last three meetings in that city.