Good news: Lamar Jackson practices again and looks on track to start AFC North title game vs. Steelers

The Baltimore Ravens received a massive boost this week as Lamar Jackson practiced for a second straight day while dealing with a back injury, putting him firmly on track to play in Sunday’s AFC North title game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Even more encouraging, Jackson was listed as a full participant in Wednesday’s practice, a key sign that his availability is trending in the right direction.With the division crown on the line, all signs now point toward Baltimore having its franchise quarterback under center for one of the biggest games of the regular season.Jackson’s practice designation is the headline here. Being a full participant and not limited suggests the Ravens are comfortable with his mobility, workload, and overall health after he dealt with a back issue that sidelined him recently. Practicing on consecutive days matters as well, especially this late in the week, because it indicates recovery momentum rather than a one-off appearance.For quarterbacks, back injuries can be tricky, particularly for someone whose game relies so heavily on movement and improvisation. That makes Jackson logging full reps a crucial development rather than just a routine update.This isn’t just any Week 18 game. Sunday’s matchup against Pittsburgh effectively decides the AFC North, and Lamar Jackson’s presence dramatically changes the stakes.With Jackson, the Ravens’ offense opens up vertically and horizontally. Baltimore controls time of possession more effectively, the Steelers’ defense must account for both designed runs and broken-play chaosWithout him, Baltimore’s offense becomes far more predictable and easier to contain. That contrast is why Jackson’s return to full practice immediately shifted expectations around the game.While the signs are overwhelmingly positive, the Ravens are still expected to monitor Jackson closely through the end of the week. Official game status won’t be locked in until final injury reports are released, and teams rarely rush to make definitive declarations early.That said, players who practice fully on Wednesday and follow it up with another practice day almost always trend toward starting. Barring any late-week setback, Jackson is widely expected to be available Sunday.Also read - Christian Barmore domestic assault charge explained as case heads to arraignment