As the NFL season hits Week 8, several key players are working their way back onto the field. Lamar Jackson returned to practice fully on Wednesday for the Baltimore Ravens, marking his first full participation since missing the team's last three games due to an ankle injury.
Ravens and Lions Welcome Back Key Players
The Baltimore Ravens received a major boost as Lamar Jackson (ankle) practiced fully for the first time since his three-game absence. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions opened the 21-day practice window for All-Pro safety Kerby Joseph (knee). Joseph took the field in a limited fashion on Wednesday, marking his first practice action since missing the final 11 games of the 2025 season due to a degenerative knee condition.
Thursday Night Football Injury Battle
The Carolina Panthers and Green Bay Packers face off on Thursday Night Football with heavily depleted rosters. The Panthers ruled out several key contributors who missed all practices this week, including Jaelan Phillips (hamstring), Akayleb Evans (triceps/knee), Damien Lewis (knee), and backup Torricelli Simpkins III (ankle).
Green Bay faces similar depth challenges, missing middle linebacker Zaire Franklin (shin) for a second straight game. The Packers will also start third-stringer John Williams at center after both Sean Rhyan (ankle) and Jacob Monk (quad) were sidelined. Wide receiver Matthew Golden (shoulder/foot), who ranks 10th in the NFL with 512 receiving yards, was a limited participant on Wednesday and remains questionable.
Key Facts for Week 8
- Lamar Jackson practiced fully for the first time in three games for the Baltimore Ravens.
- Kerby Joseph returned to practice in a limited capacity for the Detroit Lions after missing 11 games.
- The Carolina Panthers ruled out Jaelan Phillips, Akayleb Evans, Damien Lewis, and Torricelli Simpkins III.
- Green Bay will start John Williams at center due to injuries to Sean Rhyan and Jacob Monk.
- Matthew Golden is questionable for the Packers with shoulder and foot injuries.
Other Notable Matchup Statuses
Across other matchups, the Philadelphia Eagles reported six non-participants on Wednesday, including running back Saquon Barkley (hamstring/back) and wide receiver Devonta Smith (hamstring). The Kansas City Chiefs saw quarterback Patrick Mahomes (knee) practice fully, while Rashee Rice (hamstring/knee) was limited. In Tampa Bay, quarterback Baker Mayfield (right thumb) and safety Antoine Winfield Jr. (rib) practiced fully ahead of their game against the Atlanta Falcons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who returned to practice for the Baltimore Ravens?
Quarterback Lamar Jackson returned to full practice participation on Wednesday for the first time since injuring his ankle and missing the previous three games.
Why did Kerby Joseph miss time for the Detroit Lions?
Kerby Joseph missed the final 11 games of the 2025 season and the start of this year due to a degenerative condition in his knee.
Which key Green Bay Packers players are ruled out for Thursday Night Football?
The Packers ruled out middle linebacker Zaire Franklin, center Sean Rhyan, and right guard Travis Glover for their Week 8 matchup.