OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- The Baltimore Ravens entered wild-card week against the Cincinnati Bengals with cautious optimism. Quarterback Lamar Jackson had injured his left knee in Week 13, but players and coaches figured he'd be back for the playoffs, according to multiple team sources.
Four to six weeks seemed like a worst-case scenario for recovery, and for a team that closed the regular season losing three of four, including Week 18 vs. the Bengals, help was needed.
But signs of a return weren't evident. Some in the building were concerned when Jackson didn't practice at all during Week 18.