Steelers catch a lucky break with Lamar Jackson injury

The Pittsburgh Steelers somehow, someway remain in the hunt for a playoff spot in the AFC. It would require them to win out, which begins this week against Lamar Jackson and the Ravens.

The Baltimore Ravens were just barely able to hold on this past week against the Denver Broncos, as Lamar Jackson was injured mid-game, giving way to backup Tyler Huntley.

Huntley is likely to get the start next week against the Ravens bitter rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Baltimore must travel to Acrisure Stadium, and face a Steelers team that has won two straight games for the first time all season.

Pittsburgh’s season will be on the line — as they need to win out and get some help to have any chance at a playoff berth — and the Ravens must face them without Lamar Jackson.

What Lamar Jackson injury means for Ravens, Steelers

Lamar Jackson is said to be week-to-week with a PCL injury. For Jackson, this is the second straight season he’s suffered a lower-body injury at a very difficult time for his team. Lamar carries the Ravens offense at times.

Baltimore is fighting for the AFC North crown with the Cincinnati Bengals, whose odds of winning the division just skyrocketed with the news on Jackson. Without Lamar, Baltimore must rely on Tyler Huntley to keep them afloat.

“We run the same basic offense with both players [Jackson and Huntley], so it’s not really going to change anything in terms of preparation,”

John Harbaugh said.

“[Huntley is] a player that’s got a lot of dynamics to his game. He operates really well. So, if that’s the way he goes [and Huntley starts for Jackson], that’s the way it goes. We’ll be excited to play, and our guys will be fired up.”

What makes matters worse for Jackson is that he’s in a contract year. 2022 was essentially his “bet on yourself” season, and another injury casts some doubt on exactly how much the Ravens may want to give him this offseason.