With the AFC North title hanging in the balance heading into Week 18, the Baltimore Ravens may be getting a critical piece back just in time. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, who missed Week 17’s win over the Packers due to a back injury, is trending toward a possible return for Sunday night’s high-stakes showdown against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
This isn’t just another regular-season finale - it’s a winner-take-all battle for the division crown and the AFC’s No. 4 seed. And while nothing is confirmed yet, there’s growing optimism around Jackson’s availability.
From @NFLGameDay Morning: The #Ravens found a formula with their win over the #Packers and now they have hope; Meanwhile, #Chiefs TE Travis Kelce will mull his future once the offseason arrives. pic.twitter.com/QGVkGDJ1GF
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 28, 2025
According to reports, the two-time MVP is working his way back from a back bruise suffered in Week 16 against New England, when he took a knee to the back while diving on a run. He didn’t return to that game, and Tyler Huntley stepped in to steer the Ravens to a crucial win in Week 17.
Now, with everything on the line, Baltimore could be getting its franchise quarterback back - and that changes the entire equation.
Jackson’s status is still up in the air, with some insiders calling it a 50/50 shot that he suits up. But the betting markets are already leaning in one direction.
Baltimore opened as a three-point favorite for Sunday night, and that number has since moved to 3.5, suggesting increased confidence that Jackson will be under center. The Ravens' Super Bowl odds have also taken a major leap - from +8000 to +2000 - a clear sign that expectations are rising for a playoff run.
On the flip side, Pittsburgh’s odds to win it all have dipped to +9000, the third-worst among teams still alive in the postseason hunt. That’s a reflection of both the challenge of facing a potentially healthy Jackson and the uphill climb the Steelers face on the road in a must-win game.
For Baltimore, getting Jackson back would be more than just a morale boost - it could be the spark that reignites a season that’s been anything but smooth. Jackson has battled through injuries all year, including a hamstring issue that contributed to the team’s sluggish 1-5 start.
Statistically, it hasn’t been his most electric season - he’s completed 63.7% of his passes for 2,311 yards, 18 touchdowns, and six interceptions. On the ground, he’s been noticeably less dynamic, with just 63 carries for 340 yards and two scores - both career lows in usage and production.
Still, even a limited Lamar Jackson is a game-changer. His presence alone forces defenses to adjust, opens up the run game, and gives Baltimore a level of explosiveness they simply can’t replicate with anyone else.
Huntley held things down admirably last week, leaning heavily on the ground attack and Derrick Henry to power past Green Bay. But if Jackson is healthy enough to play, there’s no question who gives the Ravens their best shot at winning the division - and making noise in January.
Fans and bettors alike will be watching Jackson’s practice status closely this week. While nothing is official yet, the early momentum suggests the Ravens could be rolling into Week 18 with their franchise star back in the huddle - and if that happens, the AFC North might just run through Baltimore.