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Ravens get major injury boost as Lamar Jackson, Vega Ioane practice Friday
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- Ravens get major injury boost as Lamar Jackson, Vega Ioane practice Friday
The Baltimore Ravens received another encouraging injury update Friday, with quarterback Lamar Jackson and rookie right guard Vega Ioane participating in practice ahead of Sunday's crucial Week 8 matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
Jackson was on the practice field for the third consecutive day after being listed as a full participant Wednesday and Thursday. The two-time NFL MVP has missed Baltimore's past three games with a high ankle sprain, but his continued participation suggests he is making significant progress toward returning to the starting lineup.
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According to ESPN's Jamison Hensley, Jackson participated in Friday's session, another positive sign he could be available against Buffalo. The Ravens have not officially confirmed his status, but his workload this week represents a substantial improvement from the limited practice participation that preceded his absence against Cincinnati.
Ioane's presence was another encouraging development.
The first-round pick was suited up for his second consecutive practice Friday, just five days after suffering a reported MCL sprain during Baltimore's 35-13 loss to the Bengals . Ioane missed Wednesday's practice before returning as a limited participant Thursday. Initial reports suggested the injury could sideline him for multiple games, but head coach Jesse Minter declined to rule out the possibility of the rookie playing against Buffalo.
Baltimore's starting right guard suffered the injury against Cincinnati shortly after returning to his natural position following the acquisition of center Cam Jurgens. Emery Jones Jr. replaced Ioane against the Bengals, and the Ravens have Andrew Vorhees available as another potential option if their first-round pick cannot play.
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Ioane's availability would be particularly important for a Baltimore offense looking to reestablish its running game after consecutive losses to Cleveland and Cincinnati. Derrick Henry was limited to 45 rushing yards against the Bengals, while the Ravens failed to score after halftime for the second consecutive game. Jackson's potential return would provide an even greater boost. Baltimore has struggled to consistently generate offense with Tyler Huntley under center, making the return of its franchise quarterback a significant development ahead of a matchup against Buffalo's 5-1 team.
Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle acknowledged Thursday that Baltimore must account for Jackson's extended absence while preparing him to regain the rhythm he established before the injury. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens will release their final injury designations Friday, providing additional clarity on whether Jackson and Ioane will be available Sunday.
For now, having both players on the field again is another encouraging step as Baltimore tries to avoid a third straight loss.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Ravens get major injury boost as Lamar Jackson, Vega Ioane practice Friday
