Lamar Jackson's return to game action is drawing nearer.
Following Baltimore's win over the Chicago Bears on Sunday, Head Coach John Harbaugh said Jackson could make his return Thursday night in Miami after missing the Ravens' past three games.
That matchup will come just four days after Sunday's 30-16 victory over Chicago, in which Tyler Huntley played one of his best career games. Ultimately, it will be up to Jackson and the medical staff to see if his hamstring has healed enough to suit up against the Dolphins.
"I'm hopeful. I'm just going to say that I'm hopeful," Harbaugh said.
"As a coach, you ask, you know, 'How is he doing?' That's about as much as you do. 'How are we doing it? What do you think?'… The coaches aren't involved in statuses and whether guys play or not. That's not a coaching decision."
Harbaugh said the fact that the Ravens were set to play two games in five days was a factor in why Jackson didn't play against the Bears.
Jackson was a limited participant in the Ravens' three practices this past week. Jackson's Friday practice designation was changed from full to limited on Saturday.
Harbaugh said the Ravens weren't going to rule Jackson out until they had to. He added that it was an honest mistake that Jackson was listed as a full participant on Friday. To be considered a full participant, a player must receive the same allotment of reps that he usually has when healthy. Jackson participated fully in Friday's practice, but reportedly did so operating as the scout team quarterback.
"Nobody is trying to hide anything," Harbaugh said. "There's no advantage to be gained with that. He practiced. His status was what it was. He was questionable. I do think if we had the old status, he probably would've been doubtful."
If Jackson can't return for Thursday's game, Huntley will likely make his second consecutive start. Huntley completed 17 of 22 passes for 186 yards and one touchdown and picked up 53 rushing yards on seven carries.
