Lamar Jackson to undergo thumb surgery, headed to injured reserve

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is set to undergo surgery on his right thumb and will be placed on injured reserve, according to Baltimore Ravens Head Coach Jesse Minter. The injury occurred during the Ravens' first offensive play against the Buffalo Bills, when Jackson's right hand collided with Bills pass rusher Gregory Rousseau on a pass attempt.

Injury Details and Team Impact

Jackson's injury occurred during a 36-10 loss to the Bills. Following the game, Coach Minter stated that Jackson will undergo surgery and noted that the injury could "potentially" be season-ending. The injury follows a recent three-game absence for Jackson due to an ankle injury.

In the same game, backup quarterback Tyler Huntley also suffered a turf toe injury in the second quarter that will require surgery. This leaves the Ravens with limited quarterback depth. Undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano, a UConn product, entered the game in his NFL debut and completed 10-of-21 passes for 91 yards, including one interception and a lost fumble. The Ravens' other rostered quarterbacks are Austin Reed and Kedon Slovis, who have a combined two NFL pass attempts.

Contract and Salary Cap Implications

Jackson is currently in the fourth year of a five-year deal. According to CBS Sports, his contract includes a no-trade clause and a provision that prevents the Ravens from designating him as a franchise or transition player when his contract expires after the 2027 season.

Jackson's financial situation for 2027 includes an unsecured $52 million, consisting of a $51.25 million base salary and a $750,000 workout bonus. His salary cap number is $84.34 million. If the Ravens were to trade Jackson, they could face significant dead money. A trade before the NFL Draft would result in $74.81 million in dead money, while a trade after June 1 would split that cost between 2027 and 2028.

Potential Quarterback Options

With both Jackson and Huntley likely out for the season, the Ravens may look to the trade market or free agency. According to NBC4 Washington, potential targets include:

• Jacoby Brissett (Cardinals): The Ravens reportedly traded for Brissett on a Wednesday following the injuries.
• Tyson Bagent (Bears): Bagent has starting experience this season, having filled in for Caleb Williams.
• Anthony Richardson (Colts): A dual-threat option currently backing up Daniel Jones.
• Jimmy Garoppolo (Free Agent): The 35-year-old has remained unsigned after spending two seasons with Sean McVay.
• Joe Flacco (Bengals): A veteran backup who has played for the Ravens for 11 seasons.

Why it matters

The injuries to Jackson and Huntley leave the 4-4 Ravens seeking stability at the quarterback position as they attempt to remain in the postseason race. The team must navigate significant salary cap constraints and contract complexities regarding Jackson's future in Baltimore.

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Sources

• nbcwashington.com: QB options for Ravens after Lamar Jackson, Tyler Huntley injuries – NBC4 Washington
• baltimoreravens.com: Lamar Jackson Set for Surgery, Headed to Injured Reserve
• cbssports.com: Agent's Take: What's next between Lamar Jackson, Ravens after yet another injury - CBS Sports

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.