Ravens QB Lamar Jackson heads to injured reserve after thumb fracture

Lamar Jackson will undergo surgery on his right thumb and move to injured reserve, Ravens head coach Jesse Minter announced following Sunday's 36-10 defeat against the Buffalo Bills.

The injury occurred on Baltimore's first offensive play of the game. Jackson attempted a pass to Zay Flowers but could not complete the follow-through. His hand collided with Bills pass rusher Greg Rousseau's arm. Jackson pointed to his thumb, took a knee, and left the field. He returned to the sideline for the second half with a splint on his hand.

Minter stated that the procedure will likely end Jackson's season. The quarterback had already missed three prior games due to an ankle injury. His absence has strained the Baltimore offense, which recorded 63 fewer points and averaged three fewer yards per play in games without him compared to those with him.

Backup quarterback Tyler Huntley entered the game but sustained a toe injury during a second-quarter sack by safety Cole Bishop. Huntley was ruled out for the third quarter. Minter noted that Baltimore will likely need to sign a new quarterback before facing the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday night.

Joe Fagnano, an undrafted rookie from UConn, made his NFL debut on the subsequent drive. He completed 10 of 21 passes for 91 yards and one interception. The Ravens now hold a 4-4 record with a home game against Jacksonville looming.

Jackson's exit shifted the offensive load entirely to Fagnano. The team's statistical output dropped sharply during the three games Jackson missed earlier in the season. The coaching staff has no immediate update on Huntley's status beyond his initial injury report.