Ravens Shock Fans with Last-Minute Roster Shake-Up Ahead of Sunday’s Must-Win Showdown

Baltimore, MD – The Baltimore Ravens will head into Sunday Night Football against the Atlanta Falcons without franchise quarterback Lamar Jackson, who has been ruled out with a sprained left ankle suffered last week versus Tennessee. Head coach Jesse Minter confirmed after Friday’s walkthrough that backup Tyler Huntley will make his first start since the 2025 postseason. Jackson’s absence instantly reshapes Week 5 storylines. The former MVP had accounted for 10 total touchdowns through four games, steering Baltimore to a 3-1 start and the AFC North lead. Minter said the injury is “not expected to be long-term,” but the club will take a “week-to-week” approach, a familiar refrain after Jackson missed five contests last season with a similar ankle issue. What Huntley Brings • Mobility: Though not as electric as Jackson, Huntley posted 7.2 yards per carry in limited duty last year. • Quick rhythm passing: The fourth-year pro completed 68 percent of his throws on play-action snaps in 2025, the 3rd-best mark among backups with 100+ attempts. • Chemistry with Derrick Henry: The veteran back has averaged 5.8 yards per carry on RPO looks when paired with Huntley since training camp, per team analytics. Key Matchups vs. Falcons 1. Cam Jurgens Debut – Baltimore’s newly acquired two-time Pro Bowl center is expected to start, anchoring a line charged with neutralizing Atlanta DT Grady Jarrett. 2. Red-Zone Efficiency – The Ravens rank 2nd in red-zone TD rate (78 percent), but Jackson’s improvisation accounted for half of those scores. Huntley must replicate that finishing touch. 3. Containing Bijan Robinson – Defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald will rely on linebackers Roquan Smith and Patrick Queen to limit the NFL’s scrimmage-yards leader. Playoff & Fantasy Implications A win keeps Baltimore atop the conference and quells déjà vu concerns over Jackson’s health. Fantasy managers should downgrade Ravens wideouts slightly; however, expect increased volume for tight end Mark Andrews, Huntley’s preferred target on third down. Looking Ahead The Ravens face a short-week turnaround at Cleveland in Week 6. If Jackson’s ankle responds to treatment, there is optimism he could return for that divisional tilt; otherwise, Huntley’s audition continues. Bottom Line Baltimore’s depth will be on full display in prime time. If Huntley steadies the offense and the defense maintains its top-five scoring pace, the Ravens can weather another Jackson injury scare and remain legitimate Super Bowl contenders.