Baltimore Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has tested positive for COVID-19, according to NFL reporter Ian Rapoport. Jackson’s positive test arrived on Thursday, along with that of at least three other players and one coach.
Thursday’s positive tests bring the team’s total to “around a dozen,” according to Ravens beat reporter Jeff Zrebiec.
The Ravens were previously scheduled to square off against their bitter division rival Pittsburgh Steelers on Thanksgiving night, but the game was moved to Sunday due to prior positive tests in the Ravens organization. Thursday’s round of positive tests has now put Sunday’s game in question.
With Sunday’s game in doubt, fans are becoming increasingly irritated with the NFL’s fluid plan. Be that as it may, this is the 13th NFL game to be postponed this season, with potentially more to come.
Thursday’s Ravens Game Postponed
The NFL’s decision to move Thursday’s game out of the Thanksgiving primetime slot irked both NFL fans and players alike.
In addition to the fans, several Steelers players voiced their opinions on Twitter, including Juju Smith-Schuster and standout rookie Chase Claypool.
The league made the decision to postpone with the players’ well-being in mind, though it is undoubtedly a frustrating situation for both squads.
“This decision was made out of an abundance of caution to ensure the health and safety of players, coaches and game day personnel and in consultation with medical experts,” the NFL said in a statement.
Jackson and the Ravens Look to Get Back on Track
The Baltimore Ravens are struggling this season, despite going 14-2 a season ago. A far cry from last year, the squad is just 6-4 and in third place in the tough AFC North. Baltimore has lost two games in a row to the Tennessee Titans and New England Patriots. The squad was looking to bounce back against the undefeated Steelers.
Lamar Jackson, the reigning NFL MVP, has struggled at times this season. While still showing flashes of dominance, it seems defenses have picked up on his play-style, forcing him to throw the ball more and run less. Jackson is averaging 252 yards per game through the air but has thrown 6 interceptions. Nevertheless, Jackson remains a lethal dual-threat QB, as he is also the Ravens leading rusher with 575 yards through 10 games.
Lamar Jackson’s positive test is certainly a tough blow to the Ravens who rely heavily on their young star QB. In his absence, the Ravens will likely turn to fellow-Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III.
While the status of Sunday’s game remains in question, fans can only hope this game remains as scheduled.
