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Ravens' Lamar Jackson Out 6-10 Weeks After Thumb Surgery, Coach Jesse Minter Says

Baltimore Ravens head coach Jesse Minter announced Friday that quarterback Lamar Jackson is recovering from surgery on a broken and dislocated thumb and will likely miss six to 10 weeks. Jacoby Brissett is preparing to start in his place.

Ravens' Lamar Jackson Out 6-10 Weeks After Thumb Surgery, Coach Jesse Minter Says

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is expected to miss six to 10 weeks after undergoing surgery on a broken and dislocated thumb, head coach Jesse Minter said in a statement released Friday.

Jackson suffered the injury during the Ravens' Week 8 game against the Buffalo Bills. Minter said the star quarterback is progressing well in his recovery but cautioned that the timeline for his return remains uncertain.

"Lamar is doing well as he recovers from the broken and dislocated thumb injury he suffered in Week 8," Minter said. "Recovery timelines are challenging to predict, but injuries like this that require surgery typically take about six to 10 weeks to heal. He is doing everything he can to get back, and we will let his progress guide the timing of his return."

The injury is a significant blow to the Ravens, who are entering the second half of their season with playoff aspirations. Minter emphasized the team's focus on moving forward.

"We are committed to playing our best football over the second half of the season," he said.

In Jackson's absence, the Ravens have turned to veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who was acquired in a trade following injuries to Jackson and backup Tyler Huntley. Brissett is set to make his first career start for Baltimore on Monday night against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Brissett described his first days with the team as a crash course, acknowledging the stress of learning a new playbook quickly but expressing confidence in his adaptability. Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle praised Brissett's rapid grasp of the offense.

"I was really excited when we went and made the move and were able to acquire him and get him in here," Doyle said. "I've been super impressed by him, just being able to work with him as he's picking up our offense very quickly and also being able to provide a little bit of stability to the situation."

Brissett brings a wealth of experience, having played for seven teams, including the Ravens, and multiple offensive systems. He said the mini bye week came at an ideal time, allowing him to build rapport with Doyle and his new teammates.

"It's been cool. Obviously, a great football mind. (He's) been very receptive to information from me and getting to know each other on the field and off the field, and trying to bridge the gap of a relationship that you have to fast track before Monday, but he's been awesome," Brissett said.

As a veteran leader, Brissett offered advice to the younger quarterbacks on the roster, emphasizing the importance of listening to teammates.

"I think it's more so listening to your teammates, and that's how you figure out how to be a leader," he said. "You listen to who they are, what gets them going, what takes them down, and things of that nature. I think you build your leadership around that because everybody's different. So, I can't come in here and say, 'I'm going to be this type of leader,' (because) that type of leader's not needed."

The Ravens (6-3) remain in contention in the AFC North, but Jackson's extended absence will test the team's depth and resilience. The two-time MVP has been the centerpiece of Baltimore's offense, and his recovery will be closely monitored as the team navigates a challenging stretch of the schedule.

For now, the Ravens are placing their trust in Brissett and a supporting cast that includes veteran running back Derrick Henry and a talented receiving corps. The team's ability to adapt could determine whether it stays in the playoff hunt until Jackson returns.

Minter's statement did not provide a specific return date for Jackson, leaving open the possibility that he could be back sooner or later than the projected window. The coach made clear that Jackson's progress will dictate the next steps.

"He is doing everything he can to get back," Minter said.

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