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Lamar Jackson’s status for Week 18 becomes clear

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Larry Brown | Last updated Jan 1, 2026 1:56 PM ET

Lamar Jackson’s status for his Baltimore Ravens’ Week 18 game is becoming more clear.

Jackson practiced in full for the Ravens on Wednesday. He was back at practice again on Thursday ahead of his team’s Sunday night clash against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ravens reporter Jamison Hensley said on Thursday that it looks like Jackson will start in the game.

Ravens QB Lamar Jackson (back) is practicing for a second straight day.

He was a full participant Wednesday.

It looks like Jackson will be ready to start Sunday’s AFC North title game at the Steelers.
— Jamison Hensley (@jamisonhensley) January 1, 2026

The Ravens enter the game with an 8-8 record, while the Steelers are 9-7. The winner of the game will clinch the AFC North and the final playoff spot in the conference.

The teams also played in Week 14, and the Steelers won the game 27-22. Jackson played in that game and went 19/35 for 219 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He also rushed for 43 yards and a touchdown.

Jackson hurt his back in Week 16 and did not play in the Ravens’ Week 17 win over the Packers. Jackson has played in just 12 games this season and has not looked like his usual MVP self. He has passed for 2,311 yards with 18 touchdowns and 6 interceptions. His 340 rushing yards are the fewest in a season for his career.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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