Lamar Jackson was not on the field Wednesday as the Baltimore Ravens began preparing for their Week 4 matchup against the Tennessee Titans.
There was no immediate indication that Jackson’s absence represented a serious concern. He spoke with reporters before practice and discussed Sunday’s game as though he expected to play, making the missed session appear precautionary following Baltimore’s physical 34-31 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Brazil.
The Ravens’ official injury report will provide the reason for Jackson’s absence and clarify whether he was held out because of an injury or rest. Until that designation is available, it would be premature to characterize his status as anything more significant.
Jackson played the entire game against
Dallas and delivered when Baltimore needed him most. He completed 15 of 20 passes for 186 yards and two touchdowns while adding 50 rushing yards. His late completion helped move the Ravens into position for Tyler Loop’s game-winning 56-yard field goal.
Jackson has completed 53 of 76 passes for 745 yards, four touchdowns and one interception through three games. He has also rushed for 124 yards and one score, helping Baltimore begin the season 2-1.
The two-time MVP was not the only prominent Raven missing Wednesday.
Starting center Jovaughn Gwyn remained sidelined after suffering a fractured fibula against Dallas. Ethan Pocic, who has been dealing with a knee injury, also did not practice. Their absences left rookie Vega Ioane preparing for a possible start at center.
Baltimore added veteran center Andre James and guard Kyle Hergel to its practice squad Wednesday, giving the coaching staff additional options as it reshapes the interior offensive line.
Outside linebacker Trey Hendrickson and defensive lineman Calais Campbell were also absent from the portion of practice open to reporters. Their official designations will determine whether the veterans were receiving rest or managing injuries.
Jackson’s situation will naturally generate the most attention because of his importance to the offense. Wednesday absences, however, are not uncommon for veteran quarterbacks, particularly following a long international trip and a game in which Jackson carried the ball several times.
The tone of his media availability also matters. Jackson did not speak like a player preparing to sit out Sunday. Unless the Ravens disclose an injury or he remains sidelined later in the week, there is little reason to question his availability against Tennessee.
Baltimore will have two more practices before issuing its final game-status report. Jackson’s participation Thursday and Friday should provide a clearer picture, but the early signs suggest the Ravens were managing their quarterback’s workload rather than preparing to play without him.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Lamar Jackson misses Wednesday practice before Ravens face Titans
