The Baltimore Ravens entered Sunday’s game against the Buffalo Bills hoping the return of Lamar Jackson would provide the spark their offense desperately needed.
Instead, Jackson’s comeback lasted one offensive play. The Ravens quarterback injured his right thumb when his throwing hand collided with Buffalo pass rusher Greg Rousseau during an incomplete pass.
Jackson immediately left the game and did not return.
Baltimore eventually lost 36-10, falling to 4-4 after a third consecutive defeat. But the result was overshadowed by news that Jackson will require surgery and be placed on injured reserve.
Baltimore’s quarterback problems quickly multiplied
Jackson had already missed three games because of a left ankle injury. His return was expected to restore some of the mobility, playmaking and offensive efficiency that Baltimore lacked during his absence.
#Ravens QB Lamar Jackson will have surgery on his thumb and will go on Injured Reserve, per coach Jesse Minter. “We’ll see” if it’s season ending. https://t.co/dhhW7pOUWS
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 1, 2026
Instead, the Ravens were forced to turn to Tyler Huntley. That solution lasted only temporarily.
Huntley also exited with a right toe injury, leaving undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano to make his NFL debut. Fagnano completed 10 of 21 passes for 91 yards, throwing an interception and losing a fumble.
Baltimore finished with only 144 total yards. The Ravens’ offense struggled to sustain drives, and Buffalo controlled the game throughout the afternoon.
Jesse Minter faces an enormous challenge
Ravens coach Jesse Minter indicated that Jackson’s injury could potentially end his season. That possibility creates a much bigger concern than the immediate loss to Buffalo.
Jackson remains the centerpiece of Baltimore’s offense.
His ability to create plays with his legs, extend passing opportunities and force defenses to account for his mobility changes how opponents prepare for the Ravens. Without him, Baltimore must adjust its offensive identity.
The uncertainty surrounding Huntley’s injury makes the situation even more complicated. The Ravens cannot simply assume that their usual backup will be available.
Minter and his staff must determine which quarterbacks can practice, prepare and execute the offense during a short week.
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The schedule offers no relief
Baltimore hosts Jacksonville on Thursday night. That gives the Ravens only a few days to recover from Sunday’s loss and establish a quarterback plan.
The Jaguars are coming off a dominant 42-7 victory over Indianapolis, adding another challenge for Baltimore. The Ravens have enough talent to remain competitive, but their offense has looked dramatically different without Jackson.
A prolonged absence would place additional pressure on Derrick Henry, the offensive line and Baltimore’s defense.
The Ravens entered the season with expectations of competing for the AFC championship. Now they face a far more immediate question. Who will play quarterback Thursday, and can that player keep Baltimore’s season from slipping away?
