Bolding the core strain: Lamar Jackson is once again sidelined by illness, marking a sixth consecutive week without a full practice or week-long preparation. Since returning from an early-season hamstring issue, Jackson has battled knee, ankle, and toe concerns, punctuated by a rest day last week. On Wednesday, he remained off the field due to an illness as the Ravens gear up for a pivotal Week 16 clash with the New England Patriots.
Head coach John Harbaugh explained, “Lamar had an illness. He was kept home with a flu-like issue. The doctor kept him away today from the team.”
Several teammates also faced injury-related setbacks. Cornerback Chidobe Awuzie (foot) and left tackle Ronnie Stanley (knee/ankle) did not practice after exiting Sunday’s win in Cincinnati early. Veterans Roquan Smith (knee) and Kyle Van Noy (quadriceps) were held out as well. Harbaugh indicated he anticipates Smith and Stanley returning to practice on Thursday.
Rookie linebacker Jay Higgins IV, whose 21-day return window to the active roster opened on Wednesday, was limited by a knee issue. Safety Keondre Jackson was limited by an ankle, while defensive tackle C.J. Okoye participated fully despite a quad concern.
On a positive note, wide receiver Rashod Bateman returned to a full practice after missing Sunday's game with an ankle injury. Harbaugh noted Bateman had aggravated his ankle last week during practice, but he appeared ready to go in practice this week.
