Lamar Jackson Suffers Back Injury in Ravens’ Heartbreaking 28

Baltimore, MD – December 21, 2025 In a devastating blow to the Baltimore Ravens’ fading playoff hopes, star quarterback Lamar Jackson exited Sunday night’s primetime matchup against the New England Patriots with a back injury late in the first half and did not return. Backup Tyler Huntley stepped in admirably, but the Ravens ultimately fell 28-24 to the Patriots, dropping their record to 7-8.

The injury occurred on a 3-yard run near the end of the second quarter when Jackson slid to the ground and was kneed in the back by a Patriots defender while down. Jackson grimaced in pain, stayed in for one more play, then headed to the locker room for evaluation. The Ravens initially listed him as questionable to return before ruling him out in the third quarter.

Postgame, head coach John Harbaugh described the injury as “a bruise of some kind,” adding, “I don’t know how serious it will be. We’ll have to find out the next couple of days. He got kneed on the back [while] on the ground there.” Harbaugh emphasized it was not a precautionary decision—Jackson simply couldn’t continue.

Jackson, visibly frustrated after the game, called the play “BS,” saying, “I gave myself up and I got kneed in the back… I’m getting injured, and then we’re fighting for a chance to make the playoffs. I can’t finish the game with my guys.” He received a Toradol shot to manage the pain but was unable to return. Jackson hopes to play in the Ravens’ next game against the Green Bay Packers on Saturday, but tests on Monday will determine the severity.

This marks another injury-plagued chapter in what has been a challenging 2025 season for the two-time MVP. Jackson previously missed time with a hamstring issue and has dealt with knee, ankle, and toe problems since returning.

Without Jackson, Tyler Huntley—the Ravens’ reliable backup who rejoined the team earlier this season—took over and provided a spark. Huntley completed passes efficiently and helped Baltimore build a 24-13 lead in the fourth quarter, including touchdown drives powered by running back Derrick Henry.

However, Patriots quarterback Drake Maye engineered a dramatic comeback, throwing for over 300 yards and leading two late touchdown drives, capped by a game-winning score to clinch a playoff spot for New England (now 12-3).

The loss leaves the Ravens in a precarious position, trailing the Pittsburgh Steelers in the AFC North and with slim playoff chances heading into the final weeks.

Key Game Stats:

• Final Score: Patriots 28, Ravens 24
• Lamar Jackson (before injury): 7/10 passing, 101 yards; 2 carries, 7 yards
• Derrick Henry: Multiple touchdowns, including a 21-yard run
• Ravens Record: 7-8

The Ravens face a must-win scenario next Saturday at Green Bay. Stay tuned for updates on Jackson’s status as Baltimore fights to keep its season alive.