Lamar Jackson reportedly intends to play again this season, giving the Baltimore Ravens a reason to believe their quarterback situation could improve beyond the arrival of Jacoby Brissett. First, however, Baltimore must keep its season alive long enough for a return to matter.

According to Ian Rapoport, Jackson has told teammates he plans to return later this season after suffering a fractured and dislocated right thumb. Rapoport summarized the quarterback’s message as “Just stay alive,” with Jackson expected to miss six to nine weeks. That timetable offers hope without establishing a firm return date for the two-time NFL MVP.

The report places greater importance on Brissett’s arrival. Baltimore finalized its trade with the Arizona Cardinals on Friday, adding an experienced quarterback after injuries to Jackson and Tyler Huntley forced undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano into the lineup. The Ravens are 4-5 following Thursday’s 33-10 loss to Jacksonville, their fourth consecutive defeat.

Lamar Jackson’s return remains a possibility

Jackson’s intention to return is encouraging, but the reported recovery window leaves considerable uncertainty about when he could be available. Baltimore must navigate the coming weeks without treating his eventual return as a guarantee.

The immediate concern is producing enough offense to stay competitive. The Ravens have scored fewer than 14 points in four consecutive games, a first in franchise history. Their slide has erased the cushion created by a 4-1 start and left little room for another extended stretch of losses.

Jacoby Brissett gets an opportunity to stabilize Baltimore

Brissett is expected to start against the Los Angeles Chargers on Monday, Nov. 16. He arrives after completing 63.3% of his passes for 1,719 yards, 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions with Arizona this season, giving Baltimore a veteran option as it attempts to restore consistency.

The upcoming schedule provides an opening. Baltimore’s next four opponents are the Chargers, Carolina Panthers, Houston Texans, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, with a Week 13 bye between the Houston and Tampa Bay games. The Ravens then finish with four consecutive AFC North matchups, including both meetings with Pittsburgh.

Ravens have clear Sunday rooting interests

Mike Garafolo highlighted New England and Cleveland as teams Baltimore needs to lose Sunday to remain one game back in the wild-card race. The Patriots host Green Bay, while the Browns visit New Orleans.

Outside help would preserve an opportunity, but Brissett’s job is to turn it into wins. Jackson’s reported message gives Baltimore something to chase: Keep the postseason within reach, and its franchise quarterback could still have a chance to influence the finish.