Hold onto your helmets, football fans, because the drama surrounding Lamar Jackson just took a wild turn. Just days after a bombshell report questioned his work ethic and linked him to a potential trade, the Ravens quarterback might sit out this weekend’s game against the Packers. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this absence due to a legitimate back injury, or is there more to the story? Let’s dive in.
By ISABEL BALDWIN, US ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR
Published: 22:29 GMT, 25 December 2025 | Updated: 22:41 GMT, 25 December 2025
The Baltimore Ravens are gearing up for their penultimate game of the season against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on Saturday. However, Lamar Jackson’s status is in serious doubt. Instead, Tyler Huntley could be the one leading John Harbaugh’s squad onto the field. The Ravens have listed Jackson as doubtful due to a back injury, while the Packers have their own quarterback concerns, with Jordan Love and Malik Willis both questionable.
Jackson hasn’t practiced all week, nursing a back contusion he suffered during last weekend’s clash with the New England Patriots. This adds to a growing list of injuries this season, including issues with his hamstring, knee, ankle, and toe. But his absence from training has sparked more than just health-related speculation—it’s fueled rumors about his future in Baltimore.
And this is the part most people miss: On Wednesday, a scathing opinion piece in The Baltimore Sun accused Jackson of sleeping during meetings, staying up late playing video games, and receiving preferential treatment from the team. Columnist Mike Preston didn’t hold back, claiming that coach John Harbaugh has grown frustrated with Jackson amid swirling trade rumors. Preston even suggested that the Ravens should consider trading the 28-year-old instead of offering him a contract extension.
Jackson’s on-field performance hasn’t helped silence the critics. He’s in the midst of one of his worst statistical seasons since becoming a full-time starter. His passing touchdowns have plummeted from 41 last year to just 18 this season, and his rushing attempts and yards—once a hallmark of his dual-threat abilities—have been anemic. Preston argues that Jackson’s lack of effort in maintaining his health and conditioning is partly to blame. ‘The breakdown of an NFL player’s body is natural,’ Preston writes, ‘but Jackson could help himself.’
The columnist points to Jackson’s alleged habits, suggesting he prioritizes late-night gaming over rest and skips optional training sessions at the team’s facility, The Castle. Preston also criticizes the Ravens for what he sees as special treatment, claiming the team schedules afternoon practices to accommodate Jackson. ‘Once the Ravens become critical of Jackson, he becomes more withdrawn,’ Preston notes, adding, ‘It’s a shame because Jackson isn’t a mean-spirited person, just an overgrown kid in an adult’s body.’
Trade rumors have already started circulating, with potential destinations including Jackson’s hometown Miami Dolphins—who are in quarterback limbo after benching Tua Tagovailoa—and the Las Vegas Raiders, where part-owner Tom Brady is reportedly a fan of Jackson’s talent.
However, Ravens coach John Harbaugh quickly shut down the rumors on Wednesday, insisting his relationship with Jackson is ‘A-plus.’ ‘I love him,’ Harbaugh told reporters. ‘Always have, always will. He’s fighting like crazy to get back.’ When asked about the reports, Harbaugh added, ‘I don’t really need anybody speaking for me. So ask me, and I’ll tell you how I feel.’
So, what’s the truth? Is Jackson’s absence purely injury-related, or is there tension brewing in Baltimore? And should the Ravens consider trading their star quarterback, or is this just a rough patch in an otherwise stellar career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
