With Sunday’s clash against the Broncos looming, we’re all eager for any sign of star QB Lamar Jackson taking the field.

After two days out, Jackson’s returned to practice, putting some much-needed calm on the injury front. NFL senior writer Jeff Zrebiec dropped the real scoop on X: QB Jackson wasn’t nursing anything serious, just “resting his body” to stay fresh for a loaded stretch. The 27-year-old himself reassured, “Just trying to get my body right, keep it fresh.” 

Jackson popped up on the injury report with knee and back issues. But HC John Harbaugh was quick to clarify on Wednesday that it was just a “rest day.” 

The Heisman Trophy-winner’s been leading a hard-fought Ravens season—and with critical AFC North games on the horizon, a strategic rest made sense. Harbaugh even hinted that the jam-packed schedule warranted the caution, adding, “He’s been playing great, and we have a lot of football in front of us.”

But that’s not all. The injury report’s longer than usual, with three key DLs—Travis Jones, Broderick Washington, and Brent Urban—all sidelined Thursday. Michael Pierce’s already on IR (calf), and Baltimore’s depth on the D-line is getting razor-thin. The only fully healthy lineman on the roster is Nnamdi Madubuike. 

The Ravens were proactive—signing veteran Josh Tupou to the practice team to bolster their line against Denver’s run game. For the secondary, there’s hope. CBs Marlon Humphrey and Nate Wiggins both saw practice time. Rookie RB Rasheen Ali also made a limited return, giving the Ravens offense an extra backfield option if he’s cleared for Sunday.

Lamar Jackson’s presence on-field is pivotal not just for the Broncos game but for the entire stretch run. While Ravens vs. Commanders isn’t an official rivalry, the Jackson-Jayden Daniels matchup could turn up the heat for Baltimore football.

Lamar Jackson vs. Jayden Daniels: A new rivalry brews in the Beltway

Commanders-Ravens ain’t officially a rivalry—yet. But Jackson and rookie sensation Daniels might just change that. For the first time, two of the league’s most dynamic playmakers will share the field, pitting Jackson’s dual-MVP talent against Daniels, the fresh face already shaking up NFL records. 

NBC tried moving the game to prime time, and with good reason: Ticket prices surged over 230% since the season began, making Sunday’s matchup one of the hottest in Week 6.

The three-time Pro Bowl QB, having lifted Baltimore’s season, respects Daniels’ rapid rise. “He’s doing what we saw in college—what got him the Heisman,” Jackson alluded. 

The No. 2 pick’s supercharged Washington’s offense, leading them to a fiery 6-2 start. Only two QBs boast 200+ passing and 50+ rushing yards per game: Jackson and Daniels.

Both QBs are keeping the rivalry talk low-key, but fans know this “Battle of the Beltway” could mark the start of something BIG.