The NFL's highly anticipated quarterback matchup between Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen took an unexpected turn Sunday afternoon when the Baltimore Ravens' two-time NFL MVP suffered a thumb injury on his first offensive play against the Buffalo Bills.

Jackson appeared to strike his throwing hand against Bills defensive end Greg Rousseau's helmet before immediately leaving the field and heading to the locker room for evaluation. Baltimore subsequently announced that Jackson was questionable to return with a thumb injury, forcing Tyler Huntley back into action just minutes after the Ravens welcomed their franchise quarterback back from a three-game absence.

The sudden departure quickly became a major storyline in Sunday's early NFL schedule, with reporters Brian Wacker and Jeff Zrebiec documenting the injury and Huntley's return to the lineup. Video of the play circulated on social media, adding to concerns surrounding Jackson's availability after he had spent much of October recovering from a high ankle sprain. updates+1

Lamar Jackson's return lasts just one offensive play

Jackson entered Sunday's matchup hoping to help Baltimore end a two-game losing streak after missing the previous three contests with an ankle injury. The Ravens went 1-2 during his absence, defeating New Orleans before consecutive losses to Cleveland and Cincinnati dropped Baltimore to 4-3 and last place in the AFC North.

The quarterback's return had provided some much-needed optimism during the week. Jackson participated fully in practice, and head coach Jesse Minter confirmed Friday that he would start against Buffalo. The two-time MVP acknowledged that his ankle still bothered him but said he felt healthy enough to return and help the Ravens regain momentum.

The NFL world reacts to everything, and Jackson's stunning departure was the biggest news.