Jordan Love’s Status Adds Tension Ahead of Packers-Ravens Showdown
In a critical week leading up to Saturday night’s matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, uncertainty looms over the Green Bay Packers as quarterback Jordan Love’s participation remains limited. Meanwhile, the Ravens face their own quarterback dilemma, as Lamar Jackson’s status hangs in the balance following a back contusion sustained during a loss to the New England Patriots.
Jordan Love’s Limited Participation
Jordan Love was a limited participant in Thursday’s practice, leaving him questionable for the upcoming game. His situation is compounded by the fact that he has been dealing with a concussion, and while he has shown improvements, his availability remains uncertain.
Offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich highlighted the significance of Love’s ability to practice, stating, “He’s gone out there and he’s obviously in the protocol and everything like that, but he’s doing everything, and hopefully, we’ll see how it goes this week.” His teammate, Christian Watson, echoed these sentiments, noting that Love has “looked really good” in practice.
Lamar Jackson’s Injury Challenges
On the other side of the field, Ravens coach John Harbaugh confirmed that Lamar Jackson is doubtful for the game due to a deep tissue bruise in his back. The injury has severely limited Jackson’s mobility, and he has not practiced this week. Harbaugh described the injury as “legitimate and very painful,” detailing how the surrounding muscles lock up, restricting movement.
“If he can go out there and do it—this guy’s one of the ultimate competitors—you know he’s going to be out there,” Harbaugh said, emphasizing Jackson’s determination to play despite the pain.
Packers’ Injury List Grows
The Packers are also grappling with multiple injuries, with seven players listed as questionable. Among them, five are starters, including center Sean Rhyan (knee/illness), right tackle Zach Tom (knee/back), receiver Christian Watson (shoulder/illness), and safety Evan Williams (knee).
Watson’s status is particularly concerning as he transitioned from full participation earlier in the week to not practicing on Thursday due to illness. Similarly, Rhyan was limited earlier but also missed practice on Thursday. Tom, who did not play in last week’s game against the Bears, has been sidelined the whole week.
Williams, who was inactive against Chicago, has shown progress and was limited in practice throughout the week. He expressed the challenges of recovering from a knee injury, emphasizing the importance of managing pain and swelling to regain stability.
Backup Quarterbacks in the Mix
Adding to the uncertainty, Packers backup quarterback Malik Willis is also listed as questionable due to a right shoulder issue and illness. Meanwhile, cornerback Bo Melton has not practiced all week due to illness, further complicating the team’s preparations.
On a positive note, running back Josh Jacobs has been cleared from the injury report after battling knee and ankle issues. He reflected on the persistent nature of his injury, noting, “It’s unfortunate because I just keep getting hit on it.”
Potential Quarterback Matchup
If Love cannot play, the likely scenario pits Tyler Huntley against a Packers defense that has shown resilience this season. Huntley previously had a standout performance against Green Bay in 2021, throwing for 215 yards and two touchdowns with a passer rating of 99.5.
Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley acknowledged the challenge of facing Huntley, stating, “I don’t want to say it’s just the same thing no matter who plays quarterback, because that’s unfair to Lamar and what he’s done in this league.” He also indicated that the team’s defensive scheme would remain largely unchanged, regardless of who takes the snaps for Baltimore.
Final Injury Updates
As the teams finalize their preparations, the Packers’ injury report lists the following:
Out: LB Kristian Welch (ankle), G John Williams (back)
Questionable: QB Jordan Love (left shoulder/concussion), CB Bo Melton (illness), C Sean Rhyan (knee/illness), RT Zach Tom (knee/back), S Evan Williams (knee), WR Christian Watson (shoulder/illness), QB Malik Willis (right shoulder/illness)
For the Ravens:
Out: DT Taven Bryan (knee)
Doubtful: QB Lamar Jackson (back)
Questionable: LB Jay Higgins IV (knee)
With both teams facing significant injury challenges, fans are left eagerly awaiting updates as the game approaches.
