OWINGS MILLS, Md. -- Quarterback Lamar Jackson was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, an encouraging sign for the Baltimore Ravens heading into Sunday's road game against the Buffalo Bills.
It marked the first time Jackson had a full practice since spraining his left ankle 24 days ago.
"I think the more you're able to do and respond from and feel from certainly raises your optimism," Ravens coach Jesse Minter said Wednesday.
Jackson, who has missed the last three games, briskly jogged onto the practice field Wednesday but did not run during the media viewing portion of the session. With his left ankle taped, Jackson moved around well when throwing passes to wide receiver Zay Flowers and handing the ball off to running back Derrick Henry.
Ravens offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley acknowledged it would be "a big boost" if Jackson returned against the Bills (5-1). Baltimore (4-3) is currently in last place in the AFC North.
"Lamar is the best player in the NFL, and we all know how good of a player he is," Stanley said. "But we also don't want to rely on him having to carry us as a team."
Baltimore has gone 1-2 with Tyler Huntley filling in for Jackson. The Ravens have failed to score in the second half in losses the last two weeks.
In 14 quarters with Jackson this season, the Ravens have scored 14 touchdowns. In 14 quarters without him, Baltimore has managed just five TDs.
"He's the heart and soul of this team [and] of the offense," Henry said. "So anytime he's out there, it's always great. I know he wants to be out there with us and to put us in the best position to win. He wants the guys to play great as well. So, I'll be excited whenever he's back out there, and I look forward to it."