The Baltimore Ravens will run it back against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday after facing off in their Week 18 clash, but this time Lamar Jackson is 'hoping' to be fit.
The Bengals beat the Ravens to gain home advantage for Wildcard Weekend, and they have the chance to dump their divisional rivals out of the post-season at the very first time of asking. They were rarely tested last week as they won 27-16 against the Ravens, but things won't be as easy if Jackson is fit to play.
Jackson has been missing for a large part of their season, and remains questionable to return as Tyler Huntley is preparing to start. But the former first-round draft pick is 'working hard' to get back in time for Sunday's clash, and has even told some people he 'thinks he will be back'.
We have finally reached the post-season in the NFL, meaning that there are no second chances. If you lose, you're done for another year - which is why Jackson is desperate to get back for the Ravens.
At the moment, there could be no other year for Jackson at the Ravens, as he remains out of contract at the end of the season. The Ravens can franchise tag him to allow for more time to agree an extension, but it's been a messy situation.
But his work rate hasn't been affected, and head coach John Harbaugh says he's "working hard" to get back for Sunday. "Lamar's been in great spirits," Harbaugh said. "He's been working super-hard.
"I don't watch the workouts with the trainers. Hopefully, he's progressing to the point where he can practice sometime soon. That's really what we're all hoping for, for sure. When we have something to report on that, we will."
NFL insider Ian Rapoport said Monday on the "Pat McAfee Show" that Jackson has "told people he thinks he'll be back" ahead of the clash against the Bengals. There will be an official injury report on Wednesday, but Harbaugh is staying tight-lipped until then.
Reacting to Jackson's willingness to return, Harbaugh said: "He's been great. He's always in good spirits. He wants to play, there's no doubt, that's my feeling.
"You know I love Lamar. I love everything about Lamar. Always have, always will. He's working hard, he's in good spirits. Like I've been saying, I don't really have an update right now to share with you," Harbaugh added. "We'll have an injury report out on Wednesday."
