The Baltimore Ravens got an encouraging update Wednesday as quarterback Lamar Jackson returned to the practice field ahead of Sunday's Week 8 showdown with the Buffalo Bills.

Jackson, who has missed three consecutive games with a high ankle sprain, was spotted sprinting onto the field as Baltimore began its first practice of the week. The two-time NFL MVP looked energized on his entrance, a welcome sight for a Ravens team looking to end a two-game losing streak. ESPN's Jamison Hensley said Jackson jogged onto the field at the start of Wednesday's session, and The Baltimore Sun's Brian Wacker also confirmed the quarterback's return to practice.

His presence marks another positive step in his recovery after Baltimore held him out of Sunday's 35-13 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals, despite Jackson participating in limited practice earlier in the week.

Jackson hasn't appeared in a game since he suffered the ankle injury against the Tennessee Titans on Oct. 4. He missed the second half of that contest before sitting out subsequent matchups against Atlanta, Cleveland, and Cincinnati.

Baltimore is 1-2 in his absence, beating the Falcons in overtime before falling to the Browns and Bengals in consecutive AFC North games. The Ravens have struggled offensively without Jackson, managing just 10 points against Cleveland and 13 against Cincinnati. Baltimore was shut out in the second half of both games, contributing to consecutive losses in which the Ravens surrendered double-digit leads.

Before the injury, Jackson completed 68 of 96 passes for 967 yards, six touchdowns, and one interception, posting a 119.6 passer rating. He also rushed for 144 yards and a touchdown on 19 carries, giving Baltimore one of the league's most productive dual-threat quarterbacks. AOL

His return would significantly boost an offense that has struggled to consistently move the ball under backup quarterback Tyler Huntley.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday that Jackson is expected to return against Buffalo, citing conversations with people familiar with the quarterback's recovery. Rapoport said Jackson is believed to be closer to full strength than at any point since the injury. Late for Work

However, Jackson's appearance at Wednesday's practice does not guarantee he will be available Sunday. The Ravens will continue evaluating his ankle throughout the week, and his official practice participation designation will provide additional clarity on his progress. Head coach Jesse Minter previously emphasized that the team would not rush Jackson back before he was physically prepared to play. The Ravens held their quarterback out against Cincinnati despite his limited practice participation, showing their willingness to prioritize his recovery.

Jackson's return also comes as Baltimore's veteran leaders have challenged the team to improve its execution following consecutive second-half collapses. Veteran offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley said Wednesday that Jackson's potential return would provide an emotional boost, calling him "the best player in the NFL." Stanley also emphasized that the Ravens cannot expect their quarterback to solve every problem facing the team. Running back Derrick Henry offered a similar assessment, describing Jackson as "the heart and soul of the offense" while acknowledging his excitement about the possibility of having the quarterback back in the lineup.

Baltimore's problems extend beyond the quarterback position, with offensive line injuries, inconsistent rushing production, and defensive breakdowns contributing to its 4-3 record. Still, Jackson's return would restore a dimension missing from the offense, particularly his ability to extend plays, generate explosive gains, and create opportunities for Henry, Zay Flowers, and Mark Andrews.

The Ravens will need that production against Buffalo (5-1), which enters Sunday's matchup coming off its bye week.

Wednesday's practice offered the first encouraging sign for Baltimore. The next step will be determining how much work Jackson can handle and whether he can return to the starting lineup without limitations.

For a Ravens team searching for answers after consecutive losses, seeing its franchise quarterback sprint back onto the practice field was a promising development ahead of one of the most important games on the schedule.