Baker Mayfield Expected to Return; Lamar Jackson Out and Puka Nacua’s Status Uncertain for NFL Week 7
As the NFL’s Week 7 games draw near, several key players’ availability is shaping up to impact team strategies and fantasy football lineups. Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield is poised to return after a thumb injury sidelined him for three games, while Baltimore Ravens star Lamar Jackson will miss his third consecutive game due to an ankle injury. Meanwhile, Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua remains a game-time decision with a calf issue.
The Baltimore Ravens officially ruled Lamar Jackson out for their Sunday clash against the Cincinnati Bengals. Jackson, who has been sidelined since Week 4 with an ankle injury, was limited in practice earlier in the week and listed as questionable on Friday. However, the team downgraded him to out before kickoff. Tyler Huntley will once again start at quarterback, having led the Ravens to a comeback victory against Atlanta recently, though the offence struggled in their last outing against Cleveland.
Jackson has been diligent in his rehabilitation but admitted to still experiencing pain when running. He expressed a cautious approach, stating he didn’t want to be a liability by playing injured. “If I can’t do that, I can’t help my team,” Jackson said. “I feel like I’m doing a disservice.” The Ravens have relied on Huntley’s steadiness, who has won the last three games he started dating back to the previous season. Huntley remains confident the offence can regain its rhythm despite Jackson’s continued absence.
In Tampa Bay, Baker Mayfield appears ready to return to the field after missing three games with a dislocated right thumb suffered in Week 3. Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles reported that Mayfield “looked ready to go” after fully participating in practice throughout the week. Although Mayfield is officially listed as questionable on the injury report, NFL.com and the team expect him to start against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
Mayfield’s return could be pivotal for a Buccaneers squad struggling with a 1-5 record and sitting at the bottom of the NFC South. He will be wearing a protective glove on his throwing hand, an adjustment that may affect his comfort and performance initially. Despite that, the Panthers’ defence ranks 25th in yards allowed, offering Tampa Bay a potential offensive advantage. The Buccaneers will be without key contributors such as wide receiver Emeka Egbuka and right tackle Luke Goedeke, who have been ruled out for the game.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams are awaiting a final decision on wide receiver Puka Nacua’s availability for their game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Nacua was listed as questionable due to a calf injury, which caused him to leave Thursday’s practice early and miss Friday’s session. Rams coach Sean McVay described the injury as minor but noted it has affected Nacua’s typical power and explosiveness. The team has yet to confirm whether he will be active on game day, making his status a key storyline to monitor.
These injury updates carry significant implications for fantasy football players and fans alike. Mayfield’s return could revitalise the Buccaneers’ offence, while Jackson’s absence means Huntley will continue to lead the Ravens’ attack. Nacua’s uncertain status leaves the Rams potentially relying more heavily on other receivers if he cannot play.
As Sunday’s games approach, fans should stay alert for any late-breaking injury news, especially regarding Mayfield and Nacua. Their final game-day statuses could influence the outcomes of crucial matchups and fantasy football decisions.