Examining the Playoff Probability Shifts for the AFC North Following the Latest Lamar Jackson Injury Update
The Baltimore Ravens and their fan base are collectively holding their breath as star quarterback Lamar Jackson undergoes a battery of medical tests this Monday December 22 2025. The two time MVP was forced out of Sunday night’s pivotal matchup against the New England Patriots during the second quarter after sustaining a lower back injury. The incident occurred shortly after the two minute warning when Jackson scrambled for a three yard gain and appeared to take a knee to the back from Patriots safety Craig Woodson while sliding. Although Jackson remained in the game for one additional handoff his visible discomfort and subsequent exit to the locker room signaled a serious concern for a Baltimore team already fighting to keep its postseason aspirations alive.
The impact of Jackson’s departure was immediate and profound as the Ravens offense struggled to maintain its rhythm in the second half of the 28 24 loss. While backup Tyler Huntley performed admirably by guiding the team to two second half touchdowns the loss of Jackson’s dual threat capability limited the verticality of the playbook. For a Ravens squad that currently sits at 9 6 the defeat to New England has significantly narrowed their path to the playoffs. Baltimore now finds itself in a precarious position needing to win its final two regular season games while also requiring losses from divisional rivals to secure a wild card spot. The uncertainty surrounding their franchise player's availability for the upcoming Saturday night showdown in Green Bay has only added to the tension in the Charm City.
Reactions from the coaching staff and players have remained cautiously optimistic as they wait for the official results from Monday’s imaging. Head coach John Harbaugh noted after the game that while Jackson was frustrated by the setback he was able to walk under his own power which the team viewed as an initial positive sign. Jackson himself reportedly told teammates in the locker room that his goal is to play against the Packers but the final decision will rest with the medical staff after evaluating the severity of any potential structural damage. The 2025 season has been particularly grueling for Jackson who has already missed time due to hamstring and knee issues making this latest back ailment a major hurdle in an injury plagued campaign.
Strategically the Ravens must now prepare for a short week with a backup plan centered on Tyler Huntley’s mobility and short passing accuracy. If Jackson is sidelined for the Week 17 contest the offensive scheme will likely pivot toward a heavy dose of Derrick Henry to take the pressure off the passing game. Defensively the Ravens will need to play nearly flawless football to compensate for any drop in offensive production. The coaching staff is expected to emphasize ball security and clock management as they travel to the frigid conditions of Lambeau Field where the margin for error will be nonexistent.
Looking at the future outlook the results of Monday’s tests will be a defining moment for the Ravens' 2025 season and their long term roster management. If the injury is found to be a simple muscle strain Jackson may be cleared for limited practice later in the week. However a more serious diagnosis could force Baltimore to rely on Huntley for the remainder of the year and into the potential playoffs. Regardless of the outcome the organization remains committed to prioritizing Jackson’s long term health ensuring that any return to the field is managed with the utmost care to prevent chronic issues in the years to come.