Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens' star quarterback, is set to return against the Denver Broncos this Sunday despite a week of uncertainty due to back and knee ailments. The dynamic QB missed two practices earlier but was a full participant on Friday. "there was never a doubt," Jackson confidently reassured regarding his playing status, according to the Baltimore Ravens' official website.

Coach John Harbaugh is convinced of Jackson's preparation despite the missed time. "He'll be ready," Harbaugh said in a statement reported by ESPN. He elaborated that Jackson has kept up with the week's tactical studies and knows the game plan inside and out. Harbaugh also suggested possibly giving their starting quarterback additional days off to ensure he remains at his peak for game days.

Injury woes aren't limited to Jackson alone; the Ravens' defensive line has also taken a hit. With Michael Pierce placed on injured reserve and Brent Urban ruled out, there was some positive news with the return of Travis Jones and Broderick Washington to practice on Friday, noted the team's defensive coordinator, Zach Orr, in an interview with the Baltimore Ravens' website. Orr acknowledged the importance of those players and his confidence in the depth behind them, saying, "Here in Baltimore, the interior D-Line is something we take seriously, and we always have a contingency plan for that."

On the other side of the ball, the Ravens defense is preparing to contain a Broncos offense capable of moves on the ground. Maintaining their top-tier status in the AFC North depends heavily on their performances over the next couple of spine-crushing weeks. They will face division rivals in quick succession, starting with the Cincinnati Bengals closely following Sunday's game.